Newborn essentials checklist: what you actually need (and what to skip)

Baby registries are full of things you will use once. We asked our parent testers to log every item they actually reached for in the first three months, then kept only what made the cut.

Sleep

• A firm, flat crib or bassinet mattress with a fitted sheet
• Two or three sleep sacks instead of loose blankets
• A reliable baby monitor (see our baby monitor guide)

Feeding

• Anti-colic bottles, even if you plan to breastfeed
• Burp cloths: you will need more than you think
• A comfortable nursing pillow

Out and about

• An infant car seat that fits your car
• A stroller or carrier that suits your daily routine
• A diaper bag with an insulated pocket

What to skip

Wipe warmers, special baby laundry detergent and most newborn-size shoes. Babies outgrow newborn clothes in weeks, so buy just a few.