How to use this new baby essentials checklist
This checklist is designed to be used as a working document. Start by copying it to your ChecklistFox account so you can tick items off, add your own, and share progress with others.
Copy the template to your account
Click "Copy template" to save it to your ChecklistFox workspace. Free - no card required.
Edit based on your feeding plan and preferences
Planning to breastfeed? Skip some bottle items. Co-sleeping? Your nursery needs will differ. Customise every item to your situation.
Share with your partner or family
Share a link with your partner, parents, or baby shower planners so they can see what's already covered and what is still needed.
Download as PDF for your hospital bag
Export a clean PDF to keep in your hospital bag or share with grandparents who are helping prepare.
Pro tip:Don't over-buy before the baby arrives. Newborns grow out of the 0-3 month size in weeks. Focus on nursery essentials and the first few weeks of feeding and clothing - you can always order more once you know what your baby actually needs.
What's included in this checklist
This new baby essentials checklist is structured across 4 sections - giving you clear priorities at each stage without being overwhelmed by a single massive list. Here's what each section covers:
Nursery Essentials
Everything needed to create a safe sleep environment and changing station. These are the items to sort first, well before your due date.
- Crib or bassinet with a firm, flat mattress (Important)
- Fitted crib sheets (at least 3-4)
- Waterproof mattress protector
- Baby monitor (audio or video)
- Changing table or changing mat with safety strap
- Diaper pail with lid
- Nightlight (warm, dim setting)
- Baby laundry detergent (fragrance-free)
Feeding Supplies
Feeding gear depends on your plan - bottle, breastfeed, or both. Adjust this section based on what you know or decide after birth.
- Bottles - 4 to 8 if bottle feeding
- Bottle steriliser or sterilising tablets
- Bottle brush
- Breast pump (manual or electric)
- Nursing pillow
- Burp cloths (at least 10)
- Bibs (5-10 soft fabric newborn bibs)
Clothing (0-3 months)
Newborns grow extremely fast. Focus on practical, easy-to-change basics rather than quantity. Avoid too many items in newborn size.
- Bodysuits/onesies - 7 to 10 in newborn and 0-3M
- Sleepers/footie pajamas - 5 to 7
- Socks and booties
- Hats - 2 to 3 (hospital, outdoor)
- Scratch mittens
- Swaddle blankets - 4 to 6
- One or two warmer outfits for season
Health & Safety
The safety items here are non-negotiable. The infant car seat must be installed and checked before your due date - some hospitals won't discharge without it.
- Infant car seat - installed and checked before due date (Important)
- Baby thermometer (rectal or forehead)
- Nasal aspirator / baby snot sucker
- Infant nail file or soft baby clippers
- Baby-safe first aid kit
- Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors checked in nursery area (Safety)