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You'll spend a lot of time in the nursery once your baby arrives. Stock it with these essentials, so you're prepared for the amazing moments that will soon fill it.

Source: "Baby Wishlist." Womenshealth.gov. March 5, 2009.

Furniture Basics

icon of crib

  • Crib
  • Dresser
  • Changing table
  • Rocker

Source: "Baby Wishlist." Womenshealth.gov. March 5, 2009.

Diaper-Station Standbys

icon of box of baby wipes

  • Changing pad and covers
  • Diapers
  • Baby wipes
  • Diaper cream
  • Diaper pail

Source: "Baby Wishlist." Womenshealth.gov. March 5, 2009.

Daily Health & Wellness

icon of baby thermometer

  • Petroleum jelly
  • Baby lotion
  • Baby nail clippers
  • Digital rectal thermometer
  • Nasal aspirator

Sources:
"Baby Wishlist." Womenshealth.gov. March 5, 2009.
"Cradle Cap." HealthyChildren.org. November 21, 2015.
"Make Baby's Room Safe." HealthyChildren.org. November 21, 2015.

Tub Time

icon of shampoo bottle and suds

  • Baby tub or sink insert
  • Baby shampoo
  • Baby soap
  • Baby towels and washcloths

Sources:
"Baby Wishlist." Womenshealth.gov. March 5, 2009.
"Cradle Cap." HealthyChildren.org. November 21, 2015.
"Baby bath basics: A parent's guide." Mayo Clinic. October 25, 2016.

Feeding Accessories

icon of nursing pillow

  • Nursing pillow
  • Burp cloths
  • Nursing cover
  • Nursing pads
  • Lanolin

Sources:
"How to Pack Your Diaper Bag." The Bump. 2017.
"Nursing Supplies." HealthyChildren.org. November 21, 2015.
"Treating Breast Pain." HealthyChildren.org. November 21, 2015.
"Tips for Buying Baby Furniture & Baby Equipment." HealthyChildren.org. November 21, 2015.

Bedtime Basics

icon of two baby monitors

  • Swaddling blankets or wraps
  • Fitted sheets
  • Waterproof mattress pad
  • Pacifiers
  • Baby monitor
  • Night-light

Sources:
"Baby Wishlist." Womenshealth.gov. March 5, 2009.
"Make Baby's Room Safe." HealthyChildren.org. November 21, 2015.

Something to think about: Will your newborn's crib or bassinet be set up in your room at first? Try a temporary, easy-access bedside station with middle-of-the-night essentials such as diapers, wipes, diaper cream, and changing pads.

Sources:
"Baby Wishlist." Womenshealth.gov. March 5, 2009.
"How to Keep Your Sleeping Baby Safe: AAP Policy Explained." HealthyChildren.org. January 12, 2017.


As you prepare, don't forget to set aside the essentials you need when you head to the hospital—take a look at our packing guide.

This content is provided for general information purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice or a guarantee of prevention, improvement, or treatment of specific conditions. Always consult with your healthcare provider about your specific medical questions or concerns.