Newborn Baby Checklist (First Month): Essentials Only + What to Skip
Most newborn “must-have” lists are built to sell products, not to protect your baby. This checklist focuses on what matters in the first month: safe sleep, feeding, hygiene, basic monitoring, and safety.
Quick filter: if an item does not improve safety, feeding, hygiene, or medical monitoring, you do not need it in month one.
1) Safe sleep essentials (highest priority)
- Safety-certified crib or bassinet
- Firm, flat mattress + fitted sheet
- Sleep sack (wearable blanket)
- Room thermometer (helps avoid overheating)
Keep the sleep space empty: no pillows, loose blankets, bumpers, or stuffed toys.
2) Feeding essentials (breast or bottle)
If breastfeeding
- Nursing bras + breast pads (optional)
- Lanolin-based nipple cream (if needed)
- Pump only if you need it (work return, latch issues, supply support)
- Milk storage bags/containers + labels
If bottle-feeding (or mixed feeding)
- 6–8 bottles + newborn nipples
- Bottle brush + sterilizing method you will actually use
- Formula if indicated for your baby (confirm plan with your pediatrician)
3) Diapering + hygiene
- Diapers (newborns often use many per day)
- Fragrance-free wipes or cotton + water
- Zinc oxide diaper cream
- Gentle, fragrance-free cleanser
- Soft towels + washcloths
4) Basic health monitoring
- Digital thermometer (infant-appropriate)
- Nasal saline + gentle suction device (for congestion)
- Nail file/clipper designed for infants
5) Home safety (simple, high-impact)
- Rear-facing infant car seat (installed correctly)
- Smoke/CO detectors checked and working
- Hand hygiene plan for visitors (especially in the first weeks)
6) First pediatric checkups (don’t skip this)
- Newborn check typically within the first week after discharge (timing depends on your baby)
- Bring: feeding notes, diaper output, your top 5 concerns
- Discuss: weight trend, jaundice concerns, feeding plan, vaccination schedule
What to skip in the first month (save money + reduce clutter)
- Walkers and jumpers
- Too many outfits (comfort beats style)
- Wipe warmers, fancy sterilizers, bottle warmers (optional, not essential)
- Shoes (not needed for newborns)
Red flags: when to contact your pediatrician urgently
- Baby is difficult to wake or feeds very poorly
- Fever or temperature concerns in a young infant
- Breathing difficulty or bluish lips
- Very few wet diapers or signs of dehydration
Want a checklist customized for your baby?
Prematurity, reflux, allergies, or feeding issues can change what you need. Book a consult and we will tailor a plan that fits your baby and your home.
Prematurity, reflux, allergies, or feeding issues can change what you need. Book a consult and we will tailor a plan that fits your baby and your home.
