Essential Checklist for New Parents - Everything You Need at Home for Your Baby's Arrival

At the Parent and Family Wellness Center, we are experts in mental health hygiene during the Prenatal and Postpartum stages of your journey.

We also like to provide practical tips for you during this stage to ease your burdens.

Preparing for the arrival of a new baby involves gathering a variety of essentials to ensure you have everything you need for the first few weeks and months, so that you can rest at ease while you mentally and emotionally prepare for the big changes ahead.

 

Here’s a comprehensive checklist to help new parents get ready:

For the Baby

  1. Clothing:

    • Onesies (various sizes)

    • Sleepers and pajamas

    • Socks and booties

    • Hats

    • Mittens (to prevent scratching)

  2. Diapering:

    • Newborn and size 1 diapers

    • Diaper rash cream

    • Baby wipes

    • Changing pad or table

    • Diaper pail and liners

  3. Feeding:

    • Bottles and nipples (if bottle-feeding)

    • Breast pump and accessories (if breastfeeding)

    • Formula (if not breastfeeding)

    • Burp cloths

    • Bibs

    • Nursing bras and pads

    • Nursing pillow

  4. Sleeping:

    • Crib or bassinet

    • Firm mattress and fitted sheets

    • Swaddles and sleep sacks

    • Baby monitor

  5. Bathing:

    • Baby bathtub

    • Baby shampoo and body wash

    • Soft washcloths

    • Hooded towels

  6. Healthcare:

    • Baby thermometer

    • Nasal aspirator

    • Infant acetaminophen (check with pediatrician)

    • Nail clippers or file

    • First aid kit

  7. Travel:

    • Car seat (installed and checked)

    • Stroller

    • Diaper bag

    • Baby carrier or sling

  8. Other:

    • Pacifiers

    • Soft blankets

    • Toys and books for stimulation

    • White noise machine

For the Parents

  1. Postpartum Care:

    • Maternity pads

    • Comfortable clothing (nursing tops and loose pants)

    • Perineal spray or pads

    • Nursing pillow

  2. Comfort Items:

    • Snacks and easy-to-make meals

    • Water bottles

    • Cozy blankets and pillows

    • Essential toiletries

  3. Household:

    • Stock up on groceries and household supplies

    • Arrange for help with chores and meals

  4. Documents:

    • Important contacts (pediatrician, lactation consultant)

    • Birth plan (if you have one)

Tips:

  • Hospital Bag: Pack this with essentials for both you and the baby for a 2-3 day stay.

  • Pre-Wash Baby Clothes and Bedding: Use a mild detergent.

  • Setup Baby’s Space: Ensure the crib and changing area are ready and stocked.

This list covers the essentials, but each family's needs might vary. Make sure to tailor it to your preferences and needs.

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