The Newborn Baby Checklist: What to Prepare During Pregnancy

Bringing a new baby into the world is one of life's most exciting and overwhelming journeys. Unlike our hunter-gatherer ancestors, who wrapped their little ones in animal skins and relied on the collective support of the tribe, today’s parents are often flying solo (and preferably without the fur). That’s where this modern newborn baby checklist swoops in to save the day.

With fewer hands on deck and way more creature comforts, modern parenting requires modern gear. So, whether you're wondering what a baby wipe warmer does or just need to know how many bibs you'll really go through (spoiler: it's a lot), this baby essentials list has your back.

This comprehensive newborn checklist is your go-to guide, from baby essentials to smart shopping tips.

When Should You Start Preparing?

It’s never too early to begin thinking about what your baby will need. A well-timed newborn checklist can help reduce stress and spread out costs. Here’s a trimester-by-trimester breakdown to guide your prep:

First Trimester:

• Start researching and creating your baby registry (hello, spreadsheets!).

• Begin budgeting for large expenses, because baby gear adds up fast.

Second Trimester:

• Purchase big-ticket items like a crib, stroller, and car seat.

• Start designing the nursery (nesting mode, activate!).

Third Trimester:

• Finalise shopping for essentials using your newborn baby checklist.

• Tick off all the essentials on your hospital bag checklist, and don't forget snacks!

• Set up the nursery and install the car seat (trust us, don’t leave this to the last minute).

Spreading out purchases over several months helps manage expenses and avoids that dreaded "we're not ready" moment.

Baby Essentials Checklist

Think of this as your master baby essentials list, a straightforward, no-nonsense guide to what your newborn actually needs. We've included quantities to take the guesswork out of your shopping.

Feeding Supplies

Feeding your newborn comes with a few must-haves. Whether you're breastfeeding, formula feeding, or doing a bit of both, these essentials have you covered.

Wardrobe Essentials

Yes, baby clothes are adorable, but this baby essentials list focuses on function over fashion (for now).

Travel and On-the-Go Essentials

Going out with a baby? This part of your newborn checklist will save you time (and your sanity).

Hygiene Essentials

Bath time and diaper changes require their own arsenal of gear. Here’s what belongs in your baby essentials list:

Nice-to-Have Items for Your Baby

These aren't mandatory, but they can definitely add comfort or convenience to your parenting experience. Think of them as the cherry on top of your newborn baby checklist:

• Dress-up outfits for special occasions or Instagram photo ops

• Baby swimsuit or rash guard (for future splash sessions)

• Baby monitor (for peace of mind while baby sleeps)

• Bath toys (keep baby entertained during washes)

• Hair rinsing cup (to prevent tears during rinsing)

• Bottle steriliser (especially handy for formula feeders)

• Bottle-drying rack (because bottles multiply overnight)

• Bassinet (some babies sleep better in smaller spaces early on)

• Humidifier or vaporiser (great for cold or dry seasons)

• Rocking chair or glider (soothing for baby and your back)

• Toys and rattles (stimulate development and cuteness)

<Link to the Downloadable Baby Essentials Checklist>

Mum Essentials

Let’s not forget the most important person in this whole process, you. Caring for yourself is key. These additions to your newborn checklist ensure you’re looked after, too.

Hospital Bag Must-Haves

A good start to easing into your due date preparations is setting a hospital bag checklist. Having your essentials ready within the third trimester can make a big difference, especially in the event your baby is set on arriving much sooner. Full list here: Hospital Bag Checklist for Mums - What to Pack

Postpartum Care

Getting ready early, even as soon as the second trimester, ensures you’re not scrambling to gather what you need during an already overwhelming time. Preparing a postpartum checklist can help ease your recovery and allow you to focus more fully on bonding with your baby.  See: Postpartum Essentials to Aid Your Recovery

Smart Shopping Tips for Baby Essentials

Shopping for your baby can be exciting, but also overwhelming. Here’s how to stay practical, save money, and still get everything you need:

• Create a budget early on and prioritise big purchases (your wallet will thank you).

• Separate essentials from nice-to-haves to keep your spending focused.

• Join parenting forums or local buy-swap-sell groups to find deals.

• Use your baby registry strategically, and ask for items that offer longevity.

• Avoid overbuying newborn clothes (babies will outgrow them in a flash)

Which Items Can Be Bought Second-Hand to Save Money?

Let’s face it, babies grow faster than you can say "size three nappies," which makes second-hand shopping a no-brainer for many items. Clothes, swaddles, changing tables, bathtubs, and even baby carriers are often lightly used and perfectly safe to reuse. High-ticket items like cribs and strollers can also be smart buys, provided you check for recalls and safety compliance (e.g., no drop-side cribs).

That said, steer clear of second-hand car seats unless you trust the previous owner completely and know their accident history (safety first!). Bottles, teething toys, and pacifiers? Best to buy new for hygiene reasons.

Always wash fabrics and sterilise anything your baby will touch or chew. You can find great second-hand baby gear at local Facebook Marketplace groups, community forums, charity shops, and dedicated baby gear swaps. Just don’t forget to check expiration dates on certain items like car seats (yes, car seats do expire, typically after 6 to 10 years, depending on the manufacturer and model). Just remember, frugality doesn’t mean compromising safety; it just means you’re shopping smarter.

Is It OK to Do a Baby Registry for Your Friends and Family?

Absolutely. You’re growing a whole human, ask for help! A baby registry takes the guesswork out of gift-giving for your loved ones. Instead of ending up with six pairs of booties and zero burp cloths, you get what you actually need. Plus, many online retailers offer completion discounts for unpurchased items, which is a savvy way to save post-baby shower.

Be sure to share your registry link with grace, include it in a baby shower invitation or a casual message. People want to support you. Give them an easy way to do it (and avoid a duplicate baby bath situation while you're at it).

Welcome Your Little One with Confidence

Preparing for a baby doesn’t mean buying everything in sight. A smart, streamlined newborn checklist ensures you have what you need without the clutter. Remember, every family’s needs are different. Use this newborn baby checklist as a launchpad and customise it to fit your lifestyle.

By getting organised early, you’ll reduce stress, avoid last-minute shopping, and spend more time bonding with your beautiful new arrival.

FAQs

1. What to buy first for a newborn baby?

Start with the basics: nappies, wipes, clothing, a place for the baby to sleep, and feeding essentials. These will cover your immediate needs post-birth. This core baby essentials list gets you through the first few weeks.

2. How many diapers does a newborn use a day?

Newborns typically go through 8–12 diapers per day, especially in the first few weeks. Pro tip: always have more nappies than you think you’ll need.