Parenting isn’t an easy task for anyone, especially those who want to be a hands-on mentor for their children. Fortunately, several tools can help make parenting a little safer and easier. 

The safety of their children, whether at home or away from the house, is a constant concern for parents. You can help make sure that your infant, child, or toddler is as safe as possible by using the following items. Some of these can also help you get your work done without worry as well.

Useful Parenting Tools

Nursery Checklist

The nursery often takes the top spot as the most significant space in the home for expectant parents. Use our baby nursery checklist for a comprehensive list of items you might need for the birth of your child if you’ve been enjoying your time nesting but are unsure if you have all the necessities.

Crib

The crib is at the top of our list of essentials for new babies. Since they will be sleeping at least 16 hours each day in the first few weeks and months, your baby will require a secure cot to sleep in. A crib can be pricey, but if you choose a design that can be transformed into a toddler bed and later a daybed, you can use it for many years. It’s best to purchase brand-new cribs so that you can be sure they comply with all current safety regulations.

Crib Mattress

A firm mattress that is tailored to the exact dimensions of the crib you purchased is one of the most crucial newborn infant necessities. The best surface for sleeping is this one.

Bedding

Just a waterproof mattress cover and a few fitted sheets that exactly fit your crib mattress will do as far as bedding goes. Reduce the danger of suffocation and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) by keeping your baby’s crib empty and devoid of all other types of bedding, such as blankets, top sheets, pillows, and bumper pads, as well as toys.

Bassinet

Although this item is optional, we added it to our newborn checklist because some parents prefer to use a bassinet in the first few weeks. Bassinets are small and portable; they take up less room than cribs and can be moved easily from room to room. Of course, your little one will eventually need a crib, too. 

Night Light

We included this item on our newborn checklist even though it is optional because some parents like to use a bassinet during the first few weeks. Bassinets are compact and lightweight, taking up less space than cribs and being simple to shift from one room to another. Of course, your child will soon require a crib as well.

White noise machine or Music Player

White noise or soothing music may lull your baby to sleep or at least provide comfort.

Humidifier

An air humidifier aids in air hydration. If the air is unusually dry, your baby’s doctor could advise obtaining one for the nursery. Avoiding air that is too dry may keep your baby comfortable, particularly if they have a cold or cough.

Clothes Storage

Even if you’ve only put together the necessities, you’ll still need a place to put your baby’s clothes. Sometimes the storage provided by the changing table’s built-in drawers or shelves will suffice. As an alternative, you can arrange your clothing in bins or baskets; wardrobes or chests of drawers are also ideal choices.

Nursery Glider

The ideal place to nurse, lullaby, and give your baby one last hug before bed is in a comfortable chair in the nursery. The motion of the rocking may help you and your infant relax and make nocturnal feedings less disturbing for them.

Pacifier

This may be a necessary item for you since newborns may wish to soothe themselves by sucking on pacifiers. You might want to have a few extra pacifiers on hand because they tend to disappear. There are several sizes available for pacifiers, so make sure you read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to make sure you pick one that’s suitable for the newborn stage.

Toy Basket

Although a toy basket is probably not necessary per se, it is useful to have somewhere to keep any toys your newborn infant may acquire. Toys can be kept on shelves if you have any.

Playtime Checklist

Without toys and infant equipment for playtime, our checklist would not be complete. Here are some toys you might want to buy for your child or put on your registry.

Baby Swing 

Swings can vibrate or sway to calm your baby. In contrast to a bouncer, a swing usually moves by using the sway or vibration setting rather than your baby using their legs to make the move. You should pick a baby swing that fits your newborn’s size because baby swings have minimum and maximum weight restrictions. Toys that dangle over swings are common, and some of them even play music or produce noises.

Baby Bouncer

Baby bouncers are similar to baby swings, except they bounce because of your baby’s leg motions. You may find that a bouncer is a necessity because it allows you to complete tasks nearby while being confident that your child is secure and amused. A bouncer has a minimum and maximum weight limit, so before purchasing one, review the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Portable Play Yard

A portable play yard can give your infant a secure, contained space to nap or play while you go about your daily activities. The fact that you can move it throughout your house depending on which room you’re in makes it even better.

Toys

Other than simple rattles or books with high-contrast patterns, newborns and very young babies won’t like many toys just yet. Soon, busy boxes with lots of fascinating features, push-pull toys, stacking toys, and soft toys with sounds may be suitable options to keep your older infant entertained and promote growth. Make sure there are no little pieces that could pose a choking hazard in any toy for babies.

Play Mat

Each day, a little tummy time is beneficial for newborns. To provide your child a place to enjoy a few minutes of belly time a few times a day, you can lay a thin, soft play mat on the floor. Always keep an eye on any belly time.

Feeding Checklist

Parenting requires you to feed your child, and our newborn checklist has several items that might make the process easier. The following items should be kept in mind when feeding a newborn.

Burp Clothes

When you burp your child, burp garments are made to shield your clothing from any spit-up, no matter how much or how little. A receiving blanket would work just as well for this, but a burp cloth is more manageable due to its smaller size.

Nursing Cover

While breastfeeding, a nursing cover offers protection for both you and the infant. Usually, it comes with a strap that you can tie around your neck to secure it. A receiving blanket can also be used as a nursing cover, but as it lacks a strap, it might come off more easily.

Receiving Blankets

A tiny blanket known as a receiving blanket is frequently marketed in bundles of two or more. They are so adaptable that we’ve added them to your newborn infant checklist. You may swaddle your baby in these blankets, use them as burp rags, nursing covers, and more.

Nursing Pillow

Consider having U-shaped soft cushions for additional comfort for both you and your child. These supportive pillows provide your infant with a place to relax other than your arms, which can help relieve some of the strain on your body.

Bibs 

Bibs are unquestionably a necessary item because they can shield your child’s clothing from milk, formula, and drool.

Bottles and Nipples

Baby bottles are essential items for your newborn checklist, whether you intend to nurse or use formula. Glass and plastic choices are available; some of the plastic options include bottle liner inserts to lessen the quantity of air your baby swallows. Think about the size and form of the nipple when selecting a bottle. Before you locate a nipple your baby enjoys, you might need to try a few different ones.

Breast Pump

When necessary, such as if you return to work or if you’ll be away from your infant for longer periods, you can express breast milk using a breast pump.

Formula 

Your baby’s doctor can advise you on the many formula types and brands available.

Bottle Warmer

Safely heating your baby’s formula or breast milk that has been stored might be challenging. A bottle warmer may be a real time saver and a baby necessity. It ensures the milk is heated evenly.

Milk Storage Bags

Little pouches called milk storage bags are useful for compactly storing breast milk. It may be possible to keep milk without using bottles because they are often single-use items. Plus, you can frequently pump straight into the bag.

Bottle Brush

You can thoroughly clean the inside of the bottle with a bottle brush.

Bottle Sterilizer 

For keeping objects like bottles and nipples hygienic, you might prefer the convenience of a sterilizer, though washing them properly by hand or in the dishwasher works just as well. Some sterilizers have a bottle warming as well.

Bottle-drying Rack

This item is not necessary, but if you don’t often have much space left on your dish-drying rack, you might find it useful as a specific spot to dry your baby’s bottles.

Diapering Checklist

Prepare for numerous diaper changes! Although it might not be the most glamorous aspect of parenting, it is a crucial ritual for your child. Here is a detailed list of all the supplies you’ll need or possibly find useful for changing your baby’s diapers.

Changing Table

To change your baby’s diaper, you’ll need a secure area. To reach items like diapers, wipes, and clean clothes without lifting your baby’s hand off your changing table, these tables typically contain drawers or shelves. Just make certain that your baby cannot access these items. In case your baby rolls over unexpectedly, you can use the strap that comes with some changing tables to help secure them and prevent falls. Keep at least one hand on your baby if they are on a raised surface, even if the strap is tight.

Changing Pad

A changing pad keeps your infant cozy and the changing table spotless. While some pads have removable covers that you can machine wash, others may simply be wiped clean. This is unquestionably a necessary baby item if you’re searching for convenience.

Diapers

There will undoubtedly be a need for many diapers. Approximately 70 diapers may be used every week for your newborn. Since it is impossible to predict in advance what size diaper your infant will require, it is wise to get little packs of a few different sizes. Then, after the birth of your child, you can stock up on more of the appropriate size.

Wipes

You must carefully wipe your baby’s diaper bottom after each diaper change. Make sure it is paraben-free and created especially for a newborn’s delicate skin.

Washcloths

Use a washcloth that has been dampened with warm water to clean your baby’s diaper region. A washcloth can also be used to clean your child after bath time.

Diaper Rash Cream

Babies commonly get diaper rash from time to time. Inquire with your baby’s doctor about the ideal lotion or ointment.

Diaper Pail

Despite being optional, diaper pails were included because they help limit odors from soiled diapers. There are a variety of diaper pails available, but one important decision is whether you want one that uses standard garbage can liners or one that requires an additional liner ring that the company sells. The special liners will cost more overall but are better at capturing scents.

Clothing Checklist

Shopping for or receiving cute, miniature baby outfits is enjoyable. Remember that newborns outgrow their newborn clothing quickly—often in just a few days—so you might want to buy bigger sizes as well. Newborn baby clothes are a must-have for your shopping list in addition to being adorable. Unless you reside in a particularly warm climate, remember to wear layers. Generally speaking, it’s recommended to cover your infant in one more layer than you are. The following items are the most crucial ones to purchase for your child’s wardrobe.

Swaddle Blanket

A particular blanket can be useful if you decide to swaddle your infant during the first few weeks. Although a receiving blanket can be used, there are additional choices, such as ones with a hook-and-loop fastener for greater ease.

Pajamas or Sleepers or Sleeping Sacks

Sleepwear is undoubtedly one of the newborn requirements because your baby will spend most of its time dozing off. You should usually look for sleepwear that covers your baby’s feet, which can be found in various pajamas, sleepers, and sleeping sacks. Babies can also wear pajamas underneath some sleeping bags.

Undershirts and one-piece outfits

Diaper changes are made simple by some models’ snap closures between the legs. Choose clothing with short or long sleeves and decide between alternatives that leave your newborn’s legs completely exposed or full-body options that cover the legs and feet, depending on the weather.

T-Shirts

If you want to use leggings or pants for your baby throughout the day, you’ll also need tops like T-shirts to go with them.

Leggings or Stretchy Pants

You’ll understand how important comfortable jeans are for your newborn, whether you’re a first-time parent or not!

Sweater or Jacket

Nothing on this newborn baby checklist surpasses a sweater or jacket for keeping your young one warm. Pullover sweaters are more difficult to remove than cardigans and jackets, which can also be worn with the front left open in case the weather changes.

Socks or Booties

You’ll need a lot of socks and perhaps even some booties. Real shoes are not yet necessary for your newborn; these can wait till they begin to walk outside.

Hat with Brim

Your child will benefit from the sun protection provided by a hat with a brim.

Knit Hat or Cap

Have one of these on hand if it’s going to be chilly when your baby is delivered to make sure their head is kept warm.

Bath Time Checklist

Your baby may only require three baths each week during the first year of life. However, even a basic bathing routine needs some necessities for newborn babies! Everything you’ll need for bath time with your newborn during the first few months is on our checklist.

Baby Bath Seat or Tub

When the umbilical cord stump has gone off, you can give your newborn sponge showers, but ultimately you’ll need a seat or a tub. Just make sure that it can accommodate newborns or that a newborn insert is included to accommodate your baby’s modest size.

Shampoo

You can use a shampoo made exclusively for newborns if your newborn has hair.

Soap 

A mild soap made for infants and young babies is the best option.

Cup

Use a plastic scoop or cup to gently rinse out the soap or shampoo from your baby’s hair or skin. Just take additional care to avoid getting soapy water in your child’s eyes.

Towels

You should use a soft towel, ideally one with a hood for faster drying.

Wash Clothes

Your baby can be gently cleaned with washcloths.

Baby Moisturizer

A newborn typically doesn’t require special lotions, but if your child has dry skin patches, you can apply a baby moisturizer without fragrance.

On-the-Go Checklist

When you take your little child out, you might not realize how much you need. Our newborn checklist contains all the equipment you might need when you’re out with your baby, so you can be sure you have everything you need.

Car Seat

One of the most crucial items on our list of necessities for a newborn infant is a car seat. Once you leave the hospital and for every subsequent car trip, your baby will require one. Pick a rear-facing car seat that complies with the most recent safety regulations and is appropriate for the height and weight of your infant. Before your due date, make sure the car seat is correctly positioned in your vehicle and facing the back.

Stroller

There are many different stroller designs available on the market, including full-sized strollers, travel systems, and strollers that can accommodate car seats, all of which can be used from the newborn stage. Verify that the stroller you want complies with the most recent safety regulations.

Baby Carrier or Wrap

When you need to walk about with your infant while keeping your hands free, a baby carrier can be very helpful. There are several different types of baby carriers, including wraps, slings, front packs, and backpacks. A newborn insert may be required for some baby carriers to be worn properly for this age range.

Diaper Bag

You’ll be grateful you have a diaper bag that can contain everything you need when you’re away from home with your infant because it’s one of the most vital baby necessities. Diaper bags are available in a variety of styles, from practical to attractive. For instance, you won’t even look like you’re carrying baby items if you use a backpack diaper bag.

Sun Shade for Car Windows

To protect their sensitive skin, it’s crucial to keep your baby out of the sun. To protect your infant from the sun, you might want to use a shade cover to cover the backseat windows of your automobile.

Portable Crib

A portable crib could be a necessity for your lifestyle if you intend to travel or transport your child to Grandma’s. Verify that the portable crib satisfies the most recent safety requirements.

Portable Changing Pad

You may make sure you always have a spot that is clean to change your child’s diaper by investing in a portable changing pad. The pads often roll up small enough to fit in the majority of diaper bags.

Disposable Diaper Pail

No matter where you are, a disposable diaper pail is a terrific way to always have a place to put your baby’s soiled diapers.

Healthy and Safety Checklist

You’ll need to take your baby’s temperature or bandage a little scrape at some point, so it’s great to have a lot of newborn health necessities on hand. These are some necessities to keep around the house.

First-Aid Kit

Put all of the essentials in one location, including a baby thermometer, tweezers, antibiotic ointment, adhesive bandages, and petroleum jelly. To have some of these necessities with you when you’re on the go, you might want to keep a second first-aid kit in the car or the diaper bag.

Bulb Syringe

With one of these useful syringes, you may delicately clear mucus from your baby’s nose.

Nail Clippers or a Soft Emery Board

The occasional clipping of your child’s nails will be necessary to avoid unintentional scratching.

Soft-bristled Brush

If your newborn develops a cradle cap, even if they don’t have much hair, a brush can help remove scales.

Sunscreen

In general, you should protect your infant from the sun for at least the first six months. If, however, there is insufficient clothing and/or shade, you may choose to apply a little sunscreen to any exposed regions, such as the hands and face.

Gentle Detergent

For the first few months, you can wash all of your newborn’s clothes and blankets with mild detergents. Try a hypoallergenic substitute if your baby’s skin exhibits any signs of irritation; possibly one made especially for babies and suggested by pediatricians.

Babyproofing Supplies

Although it won’t be long until your baby can move around on its own, babyproofing equipment and supplies should eventually be on your newborn checklist. Even completing some babyproofing tasks beforehand might be beneficial.

Conclusion

Without a doubt, the parenting tools mentioned above make excellent gifts or investments for any parent. The particulars of what you decide to buy as a parent will depend on what you need. The joy and fulfillment of giving birth and building a bond with your child far outweigh the cost of buying all these parenting aids. Begin with the necessities, such as a crib, diapers, wipes, and baby hats, and work your way up from there. With the list of helpful parenting tools provided here, you’ll have everything you need to be fully equipped for your child or new baby.