As a new parent, you naturally want nothing more than for your little one to have everything they need for a great start. But where do you begin, and what do you need? We've compiled the ultimate comprehensive baby shower checklist for you, so you'll have everything you need to welcome your little one.

1. Sleeping

• Crib or cradle with mattress
• Mattress protector
• Bed linen ( sheets , blankets made of cotton or wool – no duvet)
• Sleeping bags (summer/winter)
• Hydrophilic cloths (also useful as a sheet or underlay)
• Possibly: crib booster or co-sleeper
• Baby monitor
• Swaddle or swaddle cloth
• Night light or soft mood lighting

2. Care

• Changing pad + multiple covers
• Diaper pail (preferably odorless/sealed)
• Diapers (newborn) + wipes
• Diaper cream or zinc ointment
• Hydrophilic diapers (multi-purpose: drying, laying under, covering)
• Diaper basket or organizer
• Baby bath with stand or a tummy tub
• Bath thermometer
• Bath cape(s)
• Baby oil or skin oil
• Mild baby shampoo & baby soap
• Baby ointment or lotion for dry skin
• Nail file or scissors
• Baby brush/comb
• Digital thermometer
• Nasal aspirator (e.g. a nasal bulb or aspirator)
• Soft washcloths
• Changing mat for on the go
• Baby first aid kit (with thermometer, tick remover, etc.)

3. Nutrition

• Bottles with matching teats (various sizes)
• Bottle brush
• Milk powder tower or dosing box
• Bottle warmer (optional)
• Sterilizer or pan for cooking
• Bottle feeding (if you are not breastfeeding)
• Breast pump (manual or electric)
• Breast milk storage containers or bags
• Breast compresses
• Nipple cream
• Nursing pillow
• Bibs (cloth and plastic)
• Burp cloths

4. Clothing

Please note: Babies grow quickly, so don't choose too many of each size.

• Rompers (with long and short sleeves)
• Sweaters, pants or rompers
• Socks and possibly mittens (to prevent scratching)
• Hat (for both indoor and outdoor use)
• Pajamas/sleepwear
• Jacket or cardigan
• Mittens & scarf (for cold days)
• Rain cover and/or footmuff (for stroller)

5. On the road

• Car seat (group 0+)
• Stroller with carrycot or buggy
• Baby carrier or baby sling
• Maxi-Cosi + adapter for stroller
• Car mirror (for keeping a view of your baby during car rides)
• Diaper bag (with changing mat)
• Isofix base (for easy attachment of car seat)
• Car sunshade
• Bicycle seat (for later)

6. Toys & Other

• Pacifiers and pacifier cord
• Cuddle cloth or cuddly toy
• Box + box blanket
• Baby bouncer
• Play mat
• Baby gym
• Wooden or fabric baby toys
• Rattles , teething rings
• Books (look and feel books)
• Music mobile (for above bed or playpen)
• Wall hooks or storage baskets for toys
• Night light

7. For Mom (and Dad)

• Breastfeeding pads
• Nipple cream
• Maternity package (often through insurance)
• Postnatal support band or belly band (optional)
• Comfortable nursing clothing or nursing bras
• Maternity pads and mesh panties
• Feeding and nap notebook
• Optional: portable pump or handy baby sling for quick moments

Tip

Separate essentials from luxury items to keep track of your purchases. You don't need to have everything right away—some things you'll discover naturally once your baby arrives.