Top 10 Newborn Essentials: What Your Baby Needs

1. A crib, bassinet, or play yard gives your newborn a dedicated sleep space; choose one that meets current safety standards and has a firm, flat mattress. 2. Fitted sheets make cleanup easier, and having a spare lets you change a soiled sheet without putting loose bedding in the sleep space.

3. Feeding supplies depend on how you feed your baby: you may need bottles and a cleaning brush, breastfeeding supplies, or both. 4. Burp cloths help with drips and spit-up during and after feeds, so keep a few near your usual feeding spot and in your bag.

5. Newborn or appropriately sized diapers should fit snugly around the legs without leaving deep marks; buy a modest starting supply because babies can change sizes quickly. 6. Gentle wipes or soft cloths and 7. a changing pad give you a practical setup at home and a cleanable surface for changes away from home.

8. Soft, easy-change clothing , such as bodysuits and sleepers, helps you manage frequent diaper changes; look for comfortable seams and openings that are easy for you to use. 9. A wearable blanket or sleep sack can provide warmth during sleep without a loose blanket, provided you choose an appropriate size and weight for the room temperature.

10. A properly installed, rear-facing car seat is essential for car travel; follow both the seat instructions and your vehicle manual for installation and harness fit. For outings, our featured The Ultimate Diaper Bag Packing Checklist can help you organize these basics, while our overnight diaper bag guide helps you think through what to pack for a longer trip.