Newborn must-haves

First-time parent with a brand-new baby? Read our expert guide to the newborn essentials that get you through the first few weeks and beyond including a car seat, safe sleep space, diapers, a baby carrier and other must-haves.

There are a lot of things we buy for our babies before they arrive. Some, like diapers, are super important. Others, maybe not. If you’re hoping to take a minimalist approach or simply want to start with the basics and see what baby likes—and you too!—before you buy more, this list of baby must-haves will help take you from the hospital to home and get you through the early weeks.

Start with these essentials when you’re stocking your changing station: diapers (baby’s current size + one size up), wipes, diaper rash cream and a diaper pail or trash can. Ready to stock up? Babylist editors tested 13 popular brands of baby wipes so you don’t have to.

A travel system comes with a compatible infant car seat and stroller. This allows you to stroll with your baby from day one. Typical strollers won’t work for newborns since young babies don’t have head and neck control (baby can usually sit in the stroller seat around six months). An exception is a stroller with a lie-flat pramette mode or bassinet attachment; these can be used from birth.

There are a few things to think about when figuring out how many baby clothes you’ll need and how you should add clothing to your registry: laundry, sizes and organization. This definitive list of baby clothes breaks down the standard number of clothing items you’ll want on hand for your newborn’s wardrobe.

Newborns need clothes, and matching layette sets can make their first wardrobe something special. At its most basic definition, a layette (or sometimes a “layette set”) is baby’s first set of clothes—this typically includes a matching set of a few bodysuits and/or pants, but can really be as large or small as you want. Some of our editor’s favorite layettes also include accessories like socks, mittens, hats or hair bows, or even toiletries like baby’s first shampoo and lotion set.

Commonly overlooked items include a diaper caddy for organized changing stations, white noise machine for better sleep, quality diaper pail for odor control, extra nursing bras, replacement pump parts, and a good baby monitor. Parents say these items become lifesavers in those first months.

Compare features, safety ratings, and read parent reviews for different brands. Many brands offer similar functionality at different price points. Register for a mix of premium and budget-friendly items so guests can choose based on their comfort level.

Most parents register fo for 75-100 items covering different needs and price points. This gives family and friends options at various budgets. Include both essentials (car seat, stroller) and nice-to-haves (playmats, white noise machines) so registrants have variety.