Baby Basics Checklist: What You Actually Need (and what can wait)!
- The Magnolia Tree Team
- Sep 5
- 2 min read
Walking into a baby store for the first time can feel like stepping into another universe—one where everything comes in tiny versions and somehow costs more than your monthly grocery bill. The lists online are endless, the registry suggestions are overwhelming, and it’s easy to wonder: Do I really need all this stuff?
The short answer: No. Babies don’t need nearly as much as the baby industry wants you to think. Let’s break it down to the true essentials—the things you’ll actually use, plus a few “nice-to-have” extras if your budget and space allow.
Feeding Basics
Whether you plan to breastfeed, pump, formula-feed, or a mix, here’s what you’ll need:
Essentials:
Bottles (4–6 to start) + nipples in newborn size
Formula (if using) or breast pump (if pumping)
Burp cloths (3–6)
Nursing bras/tanks (if breastfeeding)
Breast pads (washable or disposable)
Nice to Have:
Bottle warmer (not essential but convenient)
Nursing pillow (can help with positioning, but a regular pillow works too)
Clothing
Babies grow fast and spit up often—keep clothing simple and easy to wash.
Essentials:
6–8 onesies (short or long-sleeved, depending on season)
4–6 sleepers/footed pajamas
2–3 hats (lightweight or warm, depending on climate)
Socks or booties (3–4 pairs)
Scratch mittens (or sleepers with fold-over cuffs)
Nice to Have:
Cute outfits for photos (because let’s be honest—you’ll want at least one)
Diapering
Diapering will be your most frequent parenting task—prepare accordingly.
Essentials:
Diapers (newborn or size 1—don’t overstock, they grow fast)
Wipes (unscented for sensitive skin)
Diaper cream or ointment
Changing pad or mat (portable is fine)
Small diaper bag for outings
Nice to Have:
Diaper pail (great for odor control but not required)
Sleep
You don’t need a fully styled nursery for safe baby sleep—just a safe, simple setup.
Essentials:
Crib, bassinet, or pack-and-play (meets safety standards)
Firm mattress with fitted sheet
Swaddles (2–3) or sleep sacks
White noise machine (or app)
Nice to Have:
Baby monitor (especially helpful if baby sleeps in a separate room)
Bath & Health
Essentials:
Baby bathtub or sink insert
Gentle baby soap & shampoo
Gentle baby lotion
Soft baby towels (2–3) & washcloths
Baby nail clippers or file
Digital thermometer
Nice to Have:
Bath toys (for later stages)
On the Go
Essentials:
Rear-facing infant car seat (must-have for leaving the hospital)
Stroller or baby carrier/wrap
Portable changing kit
Nice to Have:
Travel bottle warmer or insulated bag for bottles
The Bottom Line
Your baby needs love, warmth, food, and a safe place to sleep—you don’t have to spend thousands to be a good parent. Let's be honest, a kid would rather play with your Tupperware drawer than their toys. Start with the
basics, add what makes life easier for you, and remember: you can always buy more later if you find you need it.
Pro tip: Babies outgrow the newborn stage fast. Don’t stress about having everything before your baby arrives—focus on what’s essential for the first few weeks, and adjust from there.
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