Newborn Checklist: Everything You Really Need (and What to Skip)

Preparing for the arrival of a newborn can be overwhelming, especially for first-time parents. With so many baby products on the market, it can be challenging to determine what is truly essential for your little one. To help simplify the process, here is a comprehensive newborn checklist outlining everything you really need, and what you can skip.

Must-Haves for Newborns

1. **Diapers**: Newborns can go through 8-12 diapers a day, so stock up on these essentials.

2. **Clothing**: Onesies, sleepers, hats, and socks are essential to keep your baby comfortable and warm.

3. **Feeding Supplies**: Whether you choose to breastfeed or bottle-feed, make sure you have the necessary supplies like bottles, formula, and burp cloths.

4. **Crib or Bassinet**: A safe sleep space is crucial for your newborn. Make sure to follow safe sleep guidelines.

5. **Car Seat**: A rear-facing car seat is a must for bringing your baby home from the hospital and for all car travel.

Items You Can Skip

1. **Wipe Warmer**: While it may seem like a nice luxury, a wipe warmer is not essential and can be skipped.

2. **Baby Shoes**: Newborns do not need shoes as they are not walking yet. Socks or booties are sufficient to keep their feet warm.

3. **Changing Table**: While convenient, a changing pad on top of a dresser can serve the same purpose and save space.

4. **Baby Food Maker**: For newborns, breastmilk or formula is all they need. A baby food maker can be purchased later when your baby is ready for solids.

5. **Toys**: Newborns are not yet at an age where they can play with toys. Focus on the essentials first.

By focusing on the essentials and skipping the unnecessary items, you can better prepare for the arrival of your newborn without breaking the bank. Remember, every baby is different, so it's essential to adapt your newborn checklist based on your individual needs and preferences.