Start With the Essentials. Leave Out the Noise.

When you're preparing for a newborn, every store will try to sell you dozens of items. But what do you actually need?

This checklist gives you exactly what pediatricians recommend based on global standards — nothing more, nothing less.

Backed by:

  • American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
  • World Health Organization (WHO)

✔️ 1. Safe Sleep Setup

Your baby will sleep up to 16 hours per day in the first weeks. Here's what's essential:

  • Firm, flat mattress in a safety-certified crib
  • Fitted crib sheet (no blankets or pillows)
  • Sleep sack or wearable blanket (instead of loose bedding)
  • Room thermometer (ideal room temp: 20–22°C / 68–72°F)

🍼 2. Feeding Essentials (Whether Breast or Bottle)

Breastfeeding:

  • Nursing pillow
  • 3–5 nursing bras
  • Nipple cream (lanolin-based)
  • Breast pump (manual or electric)
  • Milk storage bags or sterile containers

Bottle-feeding:

  • 6–8 BPA-free bottles with newborn nipples
  • Sterilizer or boiling method setup
  • Bottle brush
  • Formula (only if needed — consult pediatrician)

🧼 3. Diapering and Hygiene

  • 10–12 diapers/day (disposable or cloth)
  • Wipes (fragrance-free, alcohol-free)
  • Diaper rash cream with zinc oxide
  • Changing pad
  • Baby bath tub + gentle cleanser (no perfumes)
  • Soft baby towels and washcloths
  • Digital thermometer (rectal or underarm)

👶 4. Clothing Basics (Keep It Simple)

Buy based on climate and laundry access.

  • 5–7 onesies
  • 5–7 sleep-and-plays (footed pajamas)
  • 5–7 pairs of socks
  • 2–3 hats (for warmth or sun protection)
  • Scratch mittens (optional)

❗ Avoid bulky jackets or loose blankets in cribs or car seats.

🛡️ 5. Safety & Health Items

  • Infant car seat (rear-facing, approved in your country)
  • Baby first-aid kit (thermometer, nasal aspirator, nail clipper)
  • Pediatrician contact list

📅 6. Pediatric Visit & Vaccination Planning

  • Book your first newborn checkup within 3–5 days of birth
  • Track vaccinations using your country's schedule
  • Download WHO or CDC immunization charts
  • Prepare feeding/sleeping log for first pediatric visit

🚫 What You Don't Need (Yet)

Skip these in the first month:

  • Walkers, swings, or jumpers
  • Shoes (barefoot or socks are fine)
  • Wipe warmers or bottle warmers
  • Fancy outfits (stick to comfort and practicality)

Stick to what's necessary, keep your baby safe, and enjoy those precious early weeks. You don't need more stuff. You need clarity, calm, and connection