There's nothing like a checklist to make you feel confident in preparing for something new. For first-time parents, a newborn checklist can feel like a lifeline as they await their baby's birth. If you search for newborn checklists, though, you'll quickly find that they're full of stuff that might give you pause. Do you really need all of it?
You might not. In fact, our guess is that you can trim those lists down quite a bit. We've created a modern minimalist newborn checklist as your guide to the essentials. You can feel confident that you're as prepared as possible without buying everything under the sun.
Your Modern Minimalist Newborn Checklist
We divided our newborn checklist into “Must-Haves” and “Nice-to-Haves.” The list is inspired by the Finnish baby box, a package of essentials that the Finnish government sends to every newborn's family. It really shows you what you need as opposed to what might just end up creating unnecessary clutter. Having a newborn is chaotic enough without that.
Must-Haves
You'll find these items on almost every newborn checklist for good reasons. They really are essentials for welcoming your newborn.
Nursery
- A crib or bassinet
- 2 sets of fitted sheets
- Baby monitor
- Diapers
- Wipes
- Rash cream
- Storage
- Swaddles (You can use blankets that double as stroller blankets. No need to buy separate products here.)
💡Baby Notebook Pro Tip💡
When choosing your crib mattress, choose one that you can wipe down. Otherwise, you can get a crib mattress protector.
💡Baby Notebook Pro Tip💡
If you're considering investing in a high-end bassinet or swing, consider borrowing, buying it used, or even renting one first. You want to make sure your baby actually likes it before spending a lot of money on them. Yes, some babies do have preferences.
Clothing
- Onesies
- Pajamas
- Sweaters
- Leggings
- Socks
- Mittens
- Hats
- Sleep sack
- Dye-free, fragrance-free laundry detergent
💡Baby Notebook Pro Tip💡
Prioritize pajamas with zippers or magnetic snaps that make diaper changes easier.
Travel
- Car seat and base
- Stroller
- Baby carrier and/or wrap
- Diaper bag
Feeding
For breastfeeding families:
- Breast pump
- Milk storage bags
- Nipple cream
- Bra pads
💡Baby Notebook Pro Tip💡
Your insurance company may cover your breast pump. So double-check with your insurance company before purchasing one yourself.
For formula-feeding families:
- Formula
For everyone:
- Bottles
- Burp rags
💡Baby Notebook Pro Tip💡
If possible, buy a small number of a variety of bottles before your baby arrives. Each baby has their own preferences. You may not know which bottle they'll prefer until they're in your arms.
Bath and Wellness
- Baby shampoo
- Bath
- Thermometer
- Nasal aspirator
- Saline drops
- Diaper cream
- Nail clippers
- First aid kit
- Outlet covers
- Cupboard locks
- Baby gate
Toys and Accessories
- Teethers
- Baby books
- Soft toys
- Organization system for toys and books
Nice-to-Haves
You'll find these items on almost any newborn checklist. In our experience, they're nice to have but not necessary. The reality is that your baby may only use some of them for six months. Add them to your registry or purchase accordingly.
- A rocking chair
- A changing table and pad
- White noise machine
- Diaper pail
- Baby feeding pillow
- Bottle sterilizer
- Bottle warmer
- Pacifiers
- Baby swing or bouncer
- Play mat
- Portable pack and play
- Activity center
- Stroller toys
- Hooded baby towels
- Crib mobile
- Nursery decor
- Laundry basket
- A plan for Fresh 48 or newborn photos
💡Baby Notebook Pro Tip💡
You can DIY amazing Fresh 48 photos with our Fresh 48 Photo Guide. Download it for free and document those incredible first days.
Your Minimalist Baby Book
At this point, you might have noticed a glaring omission from our newborn checklist: a baby book! At Baby Notebook, we actually consider a custom baby book an essential. A baby book is an incredible way to preserve the fleeting first year of your child's life. You get to tell your child's story as they grow from a little baby bump to a curious adventurer by their first birthday.
The traditional approach to baby books leaves you with a lot of clutter, though. Years down the line, you'll pick up a half-finished book with cards and hospital bracelets falling out. It's not the most aesthetic or rewarding experience.
We created the Baby Notebook app to support you in creating a completely custom baby book entirely on your phone. With weekly notifications, tips, and tutorials, we'll walk you through creating a stunning book that authentically preserves your family's story. It'll also look gorgeous on your coffee table.
When you download the Baby Notebook app for free, you get access to the first three chapters: Pregnancy, Family, and Home. You can set the stage for your newborn's arrival with your tailored baby book already in progress.
Download the Baby Notebook app to start your custom baby book today!
Thank you to Jessical B. Seattle Photography for these beautiful images.