Checklist, child's sleeping area:
- Baby bed or cradle, possibly a bedside crib
- Mattress and bedding
- A pair of blankets or duvets
- Possibly a thin sleeping bag
- A steady changing dresser or table (may also be placed in the bathroom)
Checklist, clothing and diapers:
- Bodysuits, footed trousers, pants, and sweaters
- Socks and hats
- Diapers (disposable or fabric diapers) and wipes for baby
- Burp cloths (multiple pieces)
Changing and hygiene items:
- Bathtub or baby bath
- Soft washcloths and towels
- Baby oil or baby cream
- Nappy bin
- Changing mat
Food and feeding:
- Breastfeeding pillow
- Bottles and nipples
- Breast pump (if you are planning to breastfeed)
- Milk bottles and sterilization equipment (if you are planning to provide breast milk replacement + pumped milk)
- Possibly breastfeeding pads or breast compresses
- Cream for sore nipples (e.g., Purelan)
Transportation:
- Car seat that is properly installed in the car
- Stroller
- Baby sling (great for keeping your hands free; many babies feel calm in the dark, close to their caregiver. It`s smart to introduce this early)
- Baby carrier
Safety:
- Safety gates by stairs or dangerous areas (not the first few weeks, but suddenly the movements are greater)
- Socket protectors (not needed immediately but good to have ready in the house)
- Smoke detectors and fire extinguishers
- Baby monitor (traditional) or baby monitor (advanced) In order to be able to follow the baby when you are in another room
Health and well being:
- Contact information to the child's doctor and health station
- Fever thermometer (more accurate measurement than what is included in the baby monitor, BabySensor)
- Baby care products such as mild soap, shampoo and lotion
- First aid equipment, including bandages, scissors and antiseptic agent
Entertainment and stimulation:
- Baby toys (rattles, biting rings, soft teddy bears)
- Baby mobile or play mat
Other things to consider:
- Baby books
- Musical toy
- Nappy bag or care bag to what you need when you are out of home
- Night light (nice to have if you are going to change diapers, or if the baby has lost the soother at night. Some have their own night light, others are included in the baby monitor, eg. BabySensor)
- Babynest (useful for supervised daytime naps near caregivers)
- Swaddle bag/swaddle wrap (clothes to "wrap the baby", like a burrito. Some people experience it as safe)
- White noise (some have their own device or app for soothing sound, others are included in the baby call, e.g. BabySensor)
Remember that this is a general checklist and you can customize it based on your own preferences and needs. You may also want to talk to other parents or health professionals for further advice and recommendations. Good luck with the preparations for the baby's arrival!