Preparing for baby: The essentials shopping list

One thing you will quickly realize about having a baby is there are many things you will need to feed, clothe, protect, and amuse him or her.

Before you spend money on things you don’t really need, have a look at our list of the essentials. You may be able to borrow some items from friends or family, but make sure any second-hand items (especially something like a crib) meet minimum current safety standards. Some products, like car seats, actually have an expiry date, beyond which it’s not safe to use them.

Health Canada has up-to-date information on product safety that will be helpful.

Crib (that meets Health Canada’s safety standards) or another safe-sleep environment (bassinet, baby box)

Change table or change pads (secured to a stable, convenient and cleanable surfaces)

Rear-facing car seat (Read our information on car seat safety)

Breast pump (not always needed, but good to know where to buy, rent or borrow one)

Breast milk bags or containers for freezing expressed breast milk

Baby bottles if expressing breast milk or not breastfeeding

Vitamin D drops (Read our information about vitamin D)

A thermometer for taking your baby’s temperature

Infant diapers (cloth or disposable)

Petroleum jelly or zinc-based barrier cream (for diaper rash)

Soft washcloths and towels (hooded ones are great!)

Mild soap and mild laundry detergent

Receiving blankets and small, warm blankets

Infant sleepers, hats, booties, onesies

Infant mittens (to cover your baby’s sharp nails)

Infant snowsuit or bunting bag (for winter babies)

Pacifier (Read our information on using pacifiers)

Saline drops and nasal aspirator for congestion

Lanolin cream for sore or cracked nipples

Public Education Advisory Committee