Bringing a newborn home is one of the most exciting — and overwhelming — moments for new parents. With so many baby products on the market, it can be hard to know what’s truly necessary, what’s optional, and what’s simply clutter.
As a postpartum doula and newborn care specialist, I help families simplify this process every day. This guide breaks down the core essentials every newborn needs, the most commonly overlooked items, and a few comfort extras that make those early weeks smoother for everyone.
You’ll also find trusted brand recommendations from companies I partner with — brands I trust, use, and confidently recommend to new parents.
✔️ The Newborn Essentials (What You Actually Need)
1. Safe Sleep Setup
A safe sleep space is the #1 priority.
This can be a bassinet, bedside sleeper, or crib with:
A firm mattress A fitted sheet No pillows, loose blankets, bumpers, or toys
Recommended partner:
🟦 Coterie Diapers — luxury diapers designed for comfort + overnight dryness
👉 https://www.coterie.com | Code: DOULADOL20 for 20% off
2. Installed Infant Car Seat
Hospitals require it — but more importantly, it keeps your newborn safe from the first ride home.
Make sure your car seat is:
Installed before baby arrives Checked by a certified technician if possible Rear-facing and correctly reclined
Recommended partner:
🟩 Nanit Smart Monitor (great for tracking breathing, sleep insights & development)
👉 https://refer.nanit.com/dawnoliver
3. Diapers, Wipes, & Simple Clothing
You don’t need a full closet — just the basics:
Footed sleepers Onesies Swaddle or sleep sack Soft hats (if cold weather) Burp cloths and receiving blankets
Stock plenty of diapers and wipes, especially in the beginning when changes are frequent.
4. Feeding Supplies
Whether you’re breastfeeding, formula feeding, or combo feeding, preparation helps:
Bottles Extra nipples Formula or breastfeeding supplies Burp cloths Bottle brush & drying rack Nursing pillow (optional but very helpful)
5. Baby Care Basics
These items are often forgotten — but incredibly important:
Digital thermometer Nasal aspirator Saline drops Baby nail file Gentle soap + washcloths Petroleum jelly or diaper cream
Recommended partners:
💙 Mira Fertility & Hormone Tracking (helpful for TTC and postpartum hormone balance)
💚 NAMI Lowcountry – postpartum mental health support resources
👉 https://www.namilowcountry.org/
6. A Few Trusted Support Partners
The newborn period is easier when you’re not doing it alone.
My trusted partners offer parents high-quality tools, mental health support, and postpartum resources that make a meaningful difference.
Partner highlights:
Coterie – luxury diapers & wipes Nanit – smart baby monitor Mira – hormone tracking + fertility support NAMI Lowcountry – emotional/mental health support
✔️ Overlooked Things That Make Life Easier
These items often get missed — but parents LOVE having them:
Waterproof changing pad liners Portable diaper caddy Extra crib sheets White noise machine Baby carrier or wrap Humidifier Travel bassinet Soft nightlight for nighttime feeds
✔️ Free Postpartum Planning Guide
Get your FREE postpartum planning guide here — perfect for parents preparing for the first 6 weeks home:
👉 Download:http://DAFlz0z8BjU/rCFWlm-RBsw-GEtCs8KAWw/view
This guide helps families organize:
Feeding plans Support systems Rest schedules Visitor plans Mental health awareness And more
Feel free to share this link with any expecting parents who need it!
✔️ The Bottom Line
Newborns don’t need much — but they need the right things.
By focusing on safety, feeding, comfort, and connection, you’ll start your postpartum journey with confidence and calm.
If you want help preparing your home or navigating the newborn period with support, I’d love to help.
You’re not meant to do this alone — and you don’t have to.
💛 Compassionate Care Doula Services
Providing postpartum doula support, newborn care, and sleep consulting to families in the Lowcountry.
Compassionate Care Doula Services, LLC 
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