Newborn Essentials for Your Baby's First 6 Weeks

Newborn Clothing Essentials

Buying clothes for newborns can be irresistible, but newborns don't really require an extensive wardrobe. While you'll want multiples of the basics for inevitable mid-day (and mid-night) clothing changes and to buy yourself some time before the next load of laundry, you can keep it simple.

Start with a couple of side-tie or side-snap T-shirts to put on your baby until their umbilical cord stump separates. After that, dress your little one in their "working" outfit, the pieces of which you'll find in this newborn clothing essentials list:

• Bodysuits (four to six)
• One-pieces/onsies (four to six)
• T-shirts (four to six)
• Long pants (two to four pairs)
• Gowns (two)
  
• Sleepers (four to six)
• Socks or booties (four to six pairs)
• Knit hat (one or two)
• Bunting or footmuff (if you're in a cold climate)

Average newborn clothes fit babies weighing 5 to 7 pounds. However, many infants will outgrow newborn clothing in the first few weeks. In fact, if your baby weighs more than 7 pounds, they may skip the newborn clothing size entirely, so make sure to have at least a few 0–3 month items on hand, too.

Newborns also go through multiple outfits a day because of messy blow-outs and spit-ups, so the number of pieces you need mostly depends on how many loads of laundry you want to do each day.

Diapers

Before you even think about clothes for your newborn, you'll want diapers—and lots of them! If you give birth in a hospital, they will likely supply you with disposable diapers to use during your stay (and if you ask, they may even send you home with some!). But newborns go through up to a dozen diapers a day, so you'll need to replenish frequently.

When stocking your diaper-changing battle station, consider having two packages of disposables on hand or enough cloth diapers for at least two days. You probably won't go wrong with investing in the newborn size in your brand of choice, but also go ahead and stock up on the next size up, too (you'll need them eventually).

Making sure that you have the right size diapers ready to go will help avoid leaks. When it comes to diapers, size is determined by weight rather than age.

Wipes

Disposable wipes are a lifesaver for diaper changes and most yucky messes. When picking out wipes, avoid products with fragrances to prevent irritating your baby's soft skin.

Alternatively, you can easily make your own wipes with paper towels or baby washcloths with a mixture of water, oil, and unscented baby soap.

Baby Bottles

Your baby will seem like a sleeping and eating machine for the first few weeks. Fortunately for you, the menu's pretty limited.

If your baby is bottle-fed, you'll need several 4-ounce and 8-ounce bottles and a bottle brush for cleaning them. Consider starting with the lowest flow nipple "size."

And even if you're nursing, you might want to stock up on a few bottles for when someone else needs to feed your baby.

Nursing Essentials

Are you breastfeeding or chestfeeding your baby? While one of the beauties of nursing is that you don't usually need lots of extra gadgets to do it, you might still want some gear to make the process easier. Consider the following items:

• Nursing bras
• Nursing pads (disposable or reusable)
• Breast pump

Especially in the early weeks, as your milk supply gets established and evens out, you may find that your breasts are tender and leaky. Having enough well-fitting bras that provide easy access to your breasts and pads for changing and soaking up leaks can be life-changing.

And even if you don't plan to start pumping in earnest right away, a breast pump can help alleviate engorgement and even bring in your milk supply if your baby is having trouble latching.

Burp Cloths

Whether breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, have about a dozen burp cloths on hand to protect your clothing. (Note that cloth diapers also make ideal burp cloths.)

You can never have too many burp cloths, as mishaps happen frequently, and you never know when you may get to the laundry next. You can also make impromptu burp cloths out of old t-shirts and flannels in a pinch.

Comfortable Glider

Between late-night feedings and mid-day cuddle sessions, a comfortable chair is a newborn baby must-have for many parents. A glider that rocks or swivels will help soothe your baby to sleep. Plus, if you have a table next to it, you can reach items like pacifiers and burping cloths without getting up.

If a new chair isn't in the budget, consider setting up a feeding station with the furniture you already have. The main thing is to make it cozy and convenient.

Crib or Bassinet and Mattress

Given that baby's main activities in the first weeks of life will be eating and sleeping, you'll want to be prepared with a safe space for your baby to sleep. Some parents prefer to start with a bassinet while others go straight for the crib.

You can choose whatever crib fits your own personal style, budget, and space as long as it meets all consumer safety requirements. And speaking of safety, keep crib bumpers, stuffed animals, and pillows out of the crib, as these present suffocation risks for babies.

Crib Sheets and Mattress Pads

With all of the available options, you can find fitted crib sheets that suit your style. You'll probably want (or rather, need) to wash them frequently, so have three or four in your collection you can rotate through.

While cute, you don't need to purchase any additional bedding like top sheets, blankets, comforters, or quilts since these items increase the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Also, consider buying a couple of quilted mattress pads to prolong the life of your mattress and waterproof liners if the pads aren't already lined. These newborn baby essentials will make your life easier in the first few weeks!

Sleep Sacks

While you shouldn't put loose blankets in a newborn's crib or bassinet, that doesn't mean that your little bundle must go to bed bare. One safe blanket alternative is to dress your baby in a sleep sack before bed instead.

Sleep sacks are like wearable, breathable blankets that keep your newborn cozy. Like clothing, they come in various sizes but are more generous, so you shouldn't have to size up too frequently.

Baby Blankets

Parents should have a few receiving blankets for swaddling their little ones during naps and nighttime. These cozy blankets are usually made with thin, soft flannel or muslin. Receiving blankets are multi-use and can double as play mats, nursing covers, or even burp cloths in a pinch. You won't mind having several around.

If the weather is chilly, you might also want to have some heavier blankets for outdoor walks and car trips.

Baby Bath Tub

Prepare for precious baby baths with a small plastic bathtub you can set up in the sink or bathtub. Many new parents are afraid of giving their newborn a bath. But a baby tub takes a lot of the fear and worry away by keeping your baby contained and snug.

Remember not to immerse your baby in water until after their umbilical stump falls off, usually in the first couple of weeks after birth. Until then, sponge baths are your friend!

Baby Shampoo and Wash

Stock up on specially formulated baby wash and shampoo. These newborn essentials are gentler on delicate skin than regular soaps and are typically formulated to be tear-free. And good news—expensive baby soaps and shampoos aren't always the best. You may be surprised that inexpensive brands work just as well (or better).

Towels and Washcloths

Parents and babies alike love snuggling up after bathtime. So, don't forget the hooded towels and washcloths.

Many baby towels come in a thin material, which is usually sufficient. But you can also find thicker terrycloth material, too. Or you can easily make your own if you or a family member or friend is crafty.

Baby Lotion

Rubbing lotion on your baby's skin after a bath keeps it healthy and hydrated, but always purchase lotions formulated for babies. And if your little one is prone to rashes or eczema, ask a health care provider for their recommendations. There are plenty of lotions made especially for baby eczema.

Baby Comb

If your newborn has hair, consider getting a fine-toothed baby comb to gently style it after bathing. Even if your newborn doesn't have a full head of hair, they will soon. Plus, they may develop a common condition called cradle cap, where they develop scaly, flaking scalp skin. A baby comb or soft baby brush can help remove it.

Nail Clippers or Scissors

Newborn nails grow surprisingly quickly. Keeping your baby's nails short will prevent them from scratching themselves—and you. Use blunt clippers made especially for soft little nails.

Trimming a new baby's nails can be a little unnerving, but in no time, you'll have the hang of it. Try clipping your baby's nails while feeding or sleeping so they're perfectly still.

Baby Thermometer

Newborns can be uncooperative little patients when they're sick or they've just had immunizations. But a few must-have newborn items will help you know when to be concerned.

For example, parents should have a digital baby thermometer on hand to track temperature. Rectal thermometers are the most accurate for newborns, but you can also use an ear or forehead thermometer.

Also, ask a health care provider which fever reducers they recommend having on hand during the newborn weeks, but never give medicine to a newborn without the guidance of a health care provider.

Nasal Aspirator

Newborns can't breathe easily through their mouths, so when their nose gets stuffy, things get a little uncomfy. A nasal aspirator can help clear up stuffy noses and help your baby breathe easier. And don't worry about that startled look on your baby's face when you use it—it doesn't hurt.

When your baby is stuffy, you may find that using a cool-mist humidifier or sitting in a steamy bathroom with them helps them decongest. But, again, never give medicine to a newborn unless under the guidance of a health care provider.

Diaper Bag

A diaper bag is a newborn baby must-have for outings. Choose a roomy style with compartments for organizing necessities. Bonus points if it also has a fold-out changing pad (you can't control your surroundings when your baby needs a diaper change!) and space for your new parent essentials.

Infant Car Seat

An infant car seat is the one baby item you're absolutely required to have. In fact, if you give birth in a hospital, they won't allow you to take your newborn home without one!

So, buy it a few weeks before your due date and practice securing it properly in your vehicle. Some car seats also double as infant carriers, allowing you to have an easy resting spot for your baby in a grocery store or restaurant.

Stroller

Walks around the block, trips to the grocery store, and other outings are infinitely better with a well-designed stroller. Narrow your options by shopping ahead of time and "test-driving" ones that fit your needs.

For example, a small easy-to-fold style improves storage capacity if you live in a city apartment. On the other hand, if long suburban rambles are on your to-do list, a stroller with a sturdier frame and plenty of storage pockets might be just right. Or perhaps you want a travel system that turns your infant car seat into a stroller with just one click.

(As an alternative, invest in a baby carrier or wrap so you can wear your newborn around town.)

Baby Monitor

Although most new parents are inclined to hover over their babies every moment, it's not always possible. A baby monitor offers peace of mind when you're out of earshot of your baby's cries or coos.

Baby monitors may be sound-only or offer both video and audio. Some models will even sync with your device.

Nightlight

You'll visit your baby many times throughout the night, especially in the newborn weeks, and stumbling around the room when you're half-awake isn't safe. A low-level light won't startle either of you, and it's perfect for feeding or changing.