Stocking the nursery with everything from clothing to equipment can appear to be an overwhelming task. Stores and catalogs are full of a range of baby products these days. To make your task easier, here’s a list of baby necessities—those things you are most likely to need when your bundle of joy arrives.

Clothing

Smart tip: When deciding how many of each item you need, consider how often you plan to do laundry.

• 3 to 7 undershirts
  
  
• 3 to 7 sleep suits
  
  
• 2 to 3 blanket sleepers for cold weather
  
  
• 3 to 7 outfits for baby to wear during the day
  
  
• 2 to 3 pairs of booties or socks
  
  
• 3 to 4 waterproof pants or diaper covers if you are using cloth diapers
  
  
• 2 to 3 small bibs to protect clothes from drool and spit-up
  
  
• 1 to 3 hats
  
  
• Sweaters and buntings (if cool weather)

Linens

Smart tip: If you will be using disposable diapers, don’t stock up on too many “newborn-size” diapers before baby arrives. If your baby is large, it won’t be long until he or she is ready for the next size.

• 2 to 5 dozen diapers
  
  
• 3 to 4 sheets
  
  
• 1 to 2 mattress pads
  
  
• 2 waterproof pads for changing time
  
  
• 3 to 4 light receiving blankets
  
  
• 2 blankets, with weight chosen to fit the weather
  
  
• 2 to 3 soft towels
  
  
• 2 to 3 soft washcloths
  
  
• 3 to 7 burp cloths
  
  
• crib bumpers

Toiletries

Smart tip: Baby powders are no longer considered necessary or useful, and can be dangerous if baby inhales them.

• Baby soap or bath liquid
  
  
• Baby shampoo
  
  
• Baby wipes
  
  
• Diaper rash ointment
  
  
• Petroleum jelly
  
  
• Sterile cotton balls
  
  
• Baby nail scissors or clippers
  
  
• Baby brush and comb
  
  
• Diaper pins if you are using cloth diapers

Feeding Supplies

Smart tip: Even if you are planning to breastfeed, keep at least one bottle on hand for water or for use with expressed breast milk.

• Feeding bras and breast pads if planning to breastfeed
  
  
• Breast pump and accessories
  
  
• 4 to 10 bottles and nipples
  
  
• Bottle and nipple brushes, pitcher, measuring cup, can opener, long-handled spoon, tongs, sterilizing equipment
  
  
• Infant formula if planning to formula feed
  
  
• Pacifier (if desired)

Furnishings

Smart tip: Postpone buying those items, such as a high chair, that you won’t need right away. It will save storage space, and you’ll probably have a better idea of your preferences after a few months of on-the-job experience.

• Infant car seat
  
  
• Bassinet or cradle (optional)
  
  
• Crib with a firm mattress
  
  
• Changing pad and table
  
  
• Baby tub
  
  
• Diaper pail
  
  
• Infant seat
  
  
• Stroller or carriage
  
  
• Chest of drawers or other storage unit for clothing
  
  
• Diaper bag

See The Medicine Cabinet for suggestions about what to have on hand for baby.

Before you start shopping, remember that you may be able to borrow some things from family and friends, and that you and baby are likely to receive some gifts. Postpone buying things until you have a better idea about what you’ll need to purchase on your own.