🍼 Newborn Essentials: What You Actually Need in the First Month

Welcoming a newborn into your family is an exciting and overwhelming experience. Between all the excitement and preparations, it can be challenging to figure out exactly what you need for those first few weeks. There’s so much advice out there, and it’s easy to get lost in a sea of baby products.

But the truth is, you don’t need a mountain of stuff to care for your newborn in the first month. In fact, simplicity is key when it comes to newborn essentials. You’ll want to focus on the basics — the items that will keep your little one comfortable, safe, and well-fed during this precious time.

At Dear Perli, we’ve gathered the newborn essentials that every parent actually needs to get through those first few weeks with ease. Read on to discover our top picks and tips for the first month with your newborn.

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🛏 1. A Safe and Comfortable Place to Sleep

Your newborn will spend a lot of time sleeping during the first month, so it’s important to provide them with a safe, cozy sleep environment. While there are many options, the most important thing is to ensure that your baby sleeps on their back in a flat, firm surface.

What You Need:

• Bassinet or Crib: A bassinet can be convenient for the first few months, especially if you plan on having your baby sleep near you. Make sure the crib or bassinet meets safety standards.

• Crib Sheets: Soft, breathable sheets that are easy to wash.

• Swaddle Blankets: Newborns love to feel snug and secure. Swaddling can help them feel comforted while they sleep, but remember, safety is key. Always use a breathable fabric, like bamboo, to ensure your baby doesn’t overheat.

Pro Tip: Our bamboo muslin swaddles are perfect for swaddling your little one as they are soft, breathable, and gentle on their sensitive skin. You can find them here.

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👕 2. Soft and Comfortable Clothes

Your newborn’s skin is ultra-sensitive, so it’s important to dress them in soft, gentle fabrics that won’t irritate. Bamboo fabrics are a great choice for baby clothes as they are hypoallergenic, naturally breathable, and moisture-wicking — keeping your baby comfortable and cool.

What You Need:

• Onesies and Bodysuits: These are essential for everyday wear. Make sure to have a few in different sizes.

• Footed Pajamas: Keep your newborn warm and cozy with footed pajamas. Choose soft bamboo or cotton fabrics that are gentle on the skin.

• Hats: If the weather is cooler, a soft hat will help keep your newborn warm.

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🍼 3. Feeding Supplies

Whether you plan to breastfeed or bottle-feed, you’ll need a few key feeding supplies to make the process easier for both you and your newborn.

What You Need:

• Bottles: Even if you plan to breastfeed, it’s a good idea to have a couple of bottles on hand for pumping or when you need help with feeding.

• Breastfeeding Essentials: If you’re nursing, invest in a good-quality breast pump, nursing pads, nipple cream, and a comfortable nursing pillow.

• Formula: If you plan to formula-feed, have a reliable brand ready to go.

• Burp Cloths: Babies often spit up after feeding, so have a few burp cloths on hand to protect your clothes.

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💧 4. Diapering Supplies

Diapering is one of the most frequent tasks during your baby’s first month. Stock up on a few essentials to make this process as smooth as possible.

What You Need:

• Diapers: Whether you use cloth or disposable, make sure you have enough to last at least a few days. You’ll need to change diapers frequently, so having a good stock is essential.

• Wipes: Gentle, hypoallergenic wipes are a must. Opt for fragrance-free and alcohol-free wipes to protect your baby’s delicate skin.

• Diaper Cream: A natural diaper cream can help prevent diaper rash and soothe your baby’s skin.

• Changing Pad: A soft changing pad will make diaper changes easier and more comfortable for your baby.

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🛁 5. Bathing Supplies

In the first month, you won’t need to give your baby a full bath every day — a gentle sponge bath will suffice. However, there are a few essential products you’ll need to ensure your baby’s hygiene and comfort.

What You Need:

• Baby Bathtub: A small, soft tub for your baby will make bath time easier and safer.

• Baby Wash and Shampoo: Choose a gentle, tear-free baby wash that is free from harsh chemicals.

• Soft Towels: A soft hooded towel is a great choice for keeping your baby warm after their bath.

• Baby Brush or Comb: A soft-bristle brush can help with your newborn’s sensitive scalp.

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👶 6. Baby Carrier or Sling

While newborns love being held, you’ll need a safe way to carry your baby hands-free from time to time. A baby carrier or sling will allow you to comfortably wear your baby while keeping your hands free for other tasks.

What You Need:

• Soft Baby Carrier: Look for a carrier that is ergonomic and provides proper support for your newborn’s developing spine.

• Baby Sling: A soft, adjustable sling is perfect for snuggling your baby close.

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🌱 7. Health and Safety Essentials

You’ll also want to have a few health and safety items on hand to keep your baby safe and comfortable during the first month.

What You Need:

• Thermometer: It’s a good idea to have a thermometer to check for fever if your baby seems unwell.

• Nail Clippers: Newborn nails grow fast and can be sharp! Keep a soft nail clipper or file to prevent your baby from scratching themselves.

• Baby First Aid Kit: A basic first aid kit should include items like baby-safe medicine, bandages, and saline drops for clearing nasal congestion.

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🌟 Shop Newborn Essentials at Dear Perli

At Dear Perli, we understand the importance of having high-quality, essential items for your newborn. That’s why we offer a range of comfortable, soft, and eco-friendly products, from bamboo swaddles to baby pajamas, to make sure your little one stays cozy and safe during those first few weeks.

👉 Shop Newborn Essentials