A baby is on the way – exciting and maybe a little overwhelming all at once. If you’re anything like most soon-to-be Canadian parents, you’re probably scrolling through lists looking for Canadian newborn essentials, walking through baby aisles, and wondering how much stuff a tiny human actually needs.
Of course, you want to have everything ready before they arrive, but at the same time, you don’t want to waste money on things you’ll never use. Baby gear isn’t cheap, and neither is life, so why buy a bunch of extras when you can just stick to the ones that actually matter?
That’s where this newborn essentials checklist comes in. No fluff, no unnecessary add-ons, just the must-haves to get you fully prepared and make your life easier once your baby arrives.
Newborn Clothing Essentials
Must-Have Clothing Items
With rows of cute baby clothes neatly displayed in stores, it’s easy to get carried away, picturing your newborn in every adorable outfit. But snap out of it, Mommy (or Daddy!) – your baby doesn’t need an overflowing wardrobe…
What they really need is comfortable, practical clothing that makes diaper changes easier.
And before we get into it, keep in mind that babies go through multiple outfit changes a day (thanks to spit-up, drool, and diaper leaks). Having multiple sets of these key items will save a busy parent like you from constant laundry.
- Onesies (6–8 pieces): Look for snap-crotch designs that make diaper changes easier
- Footed Sleepers (5–7 pieces): Footed sleepers keep your baby cozy without needing separate socks. We recommend zippered styles for late-night changes.
- Leggings or Pants (4–6 pairs): Look for soft, stretchy fabrics that won’t restrict movement.
- Sweaters or Jackets (2–3 pieces): A light cardigan works well for mild days, while fleece or knit options help on cooler outings.
- Hats (2–3 pieces): A soft cotton hat works well indoors to keep your baby warm, while a brimmed hat offers better sun protection when heading outside.
- Mittens (2–3 pairs): Soft mittens help prevent newborns from scratching their face, which happens more often than you’d think with their tiny, fast-growing nails.
- Socks or Booties (5–6 pairs): Look for ones with a snug fit that won’t slip off easily to keep your baby’s feet warm.
- Swaddle Blankets (3–4 pieces): Cotton or muslin blankets work well for warmer months, while fleece or wool adds warmth in winter.
Seasonal Considerations for Canadian Weather
Knowing what your newborn baby needs is one thing, but keeping them comfortable year-round as the seasons change is another. Newborns feel temperature shifts more than we do, so choosing the right fabrics and layering properly makes a big difference.
Winter
We all want to protect our newborns from the harsh Canadian cold, and the key is proper layering. But sometimes, we overdo it, and that can lead to overheating – if your baby’s neck or back feels sweaty, that means they’re too warm.
A quick rule of thumb: Your newborn should wear one more layer than what you’re comfortable in.
Here’s a layering guide to keep them warm without overheating, from inner to outer layers:
- Base Layer: A soft, breathable onesie to wick away moisture.
- Mid Layer: A long-sleeved footed sleeper or a warm leggings-and-top combo.
- Extra Warmth: A fleece or wool sweater for added insulation.
- Outer Layer: A snowsuit with mittens, a hat, and insulated booties for outdoor trips
Summer
In the summer, the goal is the opposite – keeping your baby cool in the heat. Thick fabrics are a no-go as they can trap heat and make your baby uncomfortable. Breathability is key.
For indoors: A lightweight cotton or bamboo onesie has moisture-wicking capabilities, which keep your baby comfortable. Long-sleeved onesies can provide a bit of extra warmth when needed.
For outings: Newborns need soft and breathable clothing. A loose-fitting short-sleeved romper allows for better airflow. Pair it with a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection and a light muslin blanket for extra shade when needed.
Spring & Fall
Spring and fall in Canada aren’t as extreme as winter and summer, but the real challenge is the unpredictable temperatures. Mornings and evenings can be chilly, while afternoons might warm up unexpectedly. The key? Flexible layering.
For both seasons, a long-sleeved onesie paired with leggings or a footed sleeper works well as a base. A light jacket or cardigan can be easily added or removed as the temperature shifts. On windy days, a hat that covers the ears helps keep your baby comfortable.
Diapering Essentials
Diaper changes will be a constant part of your daily routine in the first year, so having a smooth, efficient system makes all the difference.
Disposable vs. Cloth Diapers
In the first few months, your baby will go through 8 to 12 diaper changes a day – that’s hundreds of diapers before their first birthday! One of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to go with disposable or cloth diapers.
There’s no definitive “better” option – it all depends on your lifestyle and priorities.
Disposable diapers are the easiest and most convenient, especially for outings and nighttime changes. Cloth diapers, on the other hand, are favored by budget-conscious and eco-conscious parents looking for a reusable, lower-waste option.
Whichever you choose, here’s a quick rundown of the pros and cons of each.
Disposable Diapers
Pros:
- No washing or drying involved. Just change, toss, and move on.
- Highly absorbent, which helps reduce diaper rash.
- Easily available at grocery stores, pharmacies, and online.
- Convenient, especially for nighttime changes and outings.
Cons:
- Costs add up over time, making them more expensive in the long run.
- Not biodegradable, making them less eco-friendly.
If you want to know what diaper size you should purchase for your little one, check out our diaper size guide.
Cloth Diapers
Pros:
- Its washability makes it reusable for future children, making them a more eco-friendly option with less waste.
- Fewer chemicals, often made with organic cotton, bamboo, or hemp, which can be gentler on your baby’s skin.
- Generally more cost-effective in the long run.
Cons:
- Requires more laundry, as they need to be washed regularly.
- Less convenient for travel since carrying and storing soiled diapers can be tricky when outdoors.
Other Diapering Must-Haves
Diapers alone won’t make or break how smooth your diapering routine is. It’s the right setup and essentials that make changes quicker, cleaner, and easier for both you and your baby. Here’s a newborn baby checklist of items to keep within arm’s reach during diaper changes.
Home-Changing Area Must-Haves
- Changing Pad or Changing Table: Whether it’s a full-size changing table or a portable pad, choose a waterproof, wipeable surface to make cleanup easier.
- Diaper Pail or Wet Bag: A diaper pail with a tight-sealing lid helps contain odors from disposable diapers, while a waterproof wet bag is ideal for storing soiled cloth diapers until laundry time.
- Diaper Cream or Ointment: Helps prevent and soothe diaper rash, keeping your baby’s skin protected.
- Baby Wipes: Go for fragrance-free, alcohol-free wipes, which are gentler on your baby’s sensitive skin
Travel-Friendly Diapering Solutions
- Diaper Bag: Backpack-style bags are great if you’re carrying a baby, but whichever style you choose, make sure it has multiple compartments to keep diapers, wipes, bottles, and other essentials organized.
- Portable Changing Pad: The built-in pads in diaper bags work, but a standalone changing pad designed for portability comes with extra padding and is more comfortable for your baby.
- Disposable Wet Bags: Small, sealable bags let you store dirty diapers and wipes without causing a mess if there’s no trash can nearby.
- Extra Clothes: Diaper leaks happen, so keep an extra onesie and a pair of pants in your bag for quick outfit changes.
- Hand Sanitizer: A must-have for keeping germs at bay when soap and water aren’t available.
Feeding Essentials
Breastfeeding Needs
Breastfeeding is often seen as the default way to nourish a newborn, and in Canada, more than 90% of mothers start off breastfeeding after birth. But while breastmilk is packed with nutrition, the process itself isn’t always easy.
Comfort and convenience can make a huge difference, and having the right stuff helps make feeding smoother for both you and your baby. Below is a baby essentials checklist to keep in mind in relation to breastfeeding.
Key Products for Comfortable Breastfeeding
- Nursing bras: Look for soft, stretchy options with clip-down cups for quick access.
- Nursing pads: Leaking is common in the early weeks, and nursing pads help keep your clothes dry. Choose washable or disposable options, depending on your preference.
- Nipple cream: A lanolin-based or all-natural cream can help soothe irritation from sore or cracked nipples.
- Breastfeeding pillow: This supports your arms and back while helping keep your baby in the right position for feeding
- Water bottle & healthy snacks. Breastfeeding increases thirst and hunger, so keeping a water bottle and some easy-to-grab snacks within a snap helps keep your energy up.
Breast Pumping Must-Haves
If you won’t always be available for feedings, pumping and storing milk allows your baby to continue getting the benefits of breastmilk, even when someone else is feeding them. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Breast Pump: Double electric pumps are ideal for regular pumping, while manual pumps work well for occasional use.
- Milk Storage Bags or Containers: Choose BPA-free plastic or glass containers to store milk. And remember: Label them with the date to keep track of freshness.
- Cooler Bag with Ice Packs: If you’re pumping at work or need to store milk while traveling, a cooler bag keeps breast milk safe until it can be refrigerated or frozen.
- Hands-Free Pumping Bra: If you need to pump often, a hands-free pumping bra lets you multitask while expressing milk.
Milk Storage Tips
Like any other food, breast milk doesn’t stay fresh forever. To keep it safe for your baby, follow these standard storage guidelines:
- Room temperature: Up to 4 hours
- Insulated cooler bag: Up to 24 hours
- Refrigerator: Up to 4 days
- Freezer: Up to 2 weeks
Other things to keep in mind when it comes to breastmilk:
- Leftover milk from a feeding must be used within 2 hours—after that, it’s no longer safe.
- Thawed frozen milk can stay in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours but should be discarded if not consumed.
- Never mix breastmilk and formula in the same bottle.
- If the milk looks stringy, smells sour, or has an off texture, throw it out, as it’s no longer safe for your baby.
Bottle-Feeding Must-Haves
While breastfeeding is often encouraged, it’s not always an option for every parent. Some mothers experience low milk supply or medical conditions that make breastfeeding difficult, while others have babies who simply don’t take to the breast.
In these cases, formula and bottle feeding is the solution.
And just like breastfeeding, bottle feeding comes with its own set of tools and best practices. Read through the baby checklist below:
Must-Have Items for Bottle Feeding
- Baby Bottles (6–8 bottles): Having multiple bottles on hand means you’re not constantly washing after every feed. Look for BPA-free plastic, glass, or stainless steel options to keep feeding safe.
- Bottle Nipples (Different Flow Rates): Newborns start with slow-flow nipples to prevent choking. As your baby grows, you may switch to medium or fast-flow nipples.
- Bottle Warmer (optional): This heats milk evenly without hot spots.
- Burp Cloths or Bibs: Soft, absorbent burp cloth keeps messes from accidental spit-ups under control
- Bottle Drying Rack: Instead of stacking bottles on your regular dish rack, a dedicated bottle drying rack helps air-dry bottles and nipples hygienically.
- Bottle Cleaning Brush & Sterilizer: A long-handle bottle brush gets into all the nooks and crannies, while a nipple brush ensures no residue is left behind. Alternatively, boiling, steam sterilizers, or UV sterilizers work well.
Formula Preparation
If you’re formula feeding, choose one that’s Health Canada-approved and meets your baby’s dietary needs. Speak with your pediatrician if you’re unsure which type is best.
Follow the general process for preparing powdered formula:
- Sterilize bottles and feeding equipment before first use, and regularly thereafter, to help reduce bacteria buildup.
- Boil water for 2 minutes to kill bacteria.
- Let the water cool down to around 70°C (this takes about 30 minutes).
- Pour the right amount of water into a sterilized bottle and add formula powder according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- If meant to be consumed immediately, use within 2 hours. Discard any leftovers after feeding.
- If storing for later, refrigerate and use within 24 hours (or as specified by the manufacturer).
- Do not refrigerate or reuse warmed prepared formula. Any warmed formula should be discarded.
If your baby was born prematurely, follow specific formula preparation guidelines recommended by your healthcare provider, as premature babies may have different dietary and sterilization needs.
Additional tip: If you travel often, investing in a formula dispenser might be worth it as it can make bottle preparation much faster and convenient.
Sleep Essentials
Safe Sleep Guidelines
While babies can sleep just about anywhere, not all sleep environments are safe. Safe sleep But beyond where they sleep, safe sleep is also about how they are positioned, what they sleep on, and what’s around them. Here are some guidelines:
Always Place Your Baby on Their Back to Sleep.
The safest position for newborns is on their back for every sleep, including naps. Side and stomach sleeping can make breathing harder.
Use a Firm, Flat Sleep Surface
Babies should sleep on a firm crib or bassinet mattress with a fitted sheet – nothing softer. Soft bedding, like pillows or memory foam, isn’t safe for newborns.
Choose Health Canada-Approved Cribs & Bassinets
Products with the Health Canada seal meet durability and safety standards. But if you’re buying second-hand or from online retailers, don’t just rely on the label. Do your own checks to make sure the crib or bassinet is truly safe for your baby.
Keep the Sleep Area Free of Blankets, Toys, and Bumpers
No loose blankets, pillows, stuffed animals, or other obstacles that can block airflow. If you’re concerned about warmth, use a sleep sack or wearable blanket instead of loose bedding.
Share the Room – Not the Bed
The Canadian Paediatric Society recommends room-sharing (but not bed-sharing) for at least 6 months to keep your baby safe while they sleep. You can feed or comfort your baby in bed, but once they fall asleep, return them to their crib or bassinet in the same room.
Keep the Sleep Space Cool
The ideal room temperature for sleep is between 20°C and 25°C. In that regard, you should avoid overdressing your baby. As mentioned earlier, your baby should wear one more layer than you would.
Soothing Items for Better Sleep
Beyond just safe sleep, we want babies to sleep soundly and peacefully – because a well-rested baby is a happier, healthier baby! Some items that help promote deeper rest include:
- Swaddle Blanket or Sleep Sack: This helps minimize the impact of the baby’s natural startle reflex, which can interrupt sleep
- Pacifier: Many babies find comfort in sucking, which is why pacifiers can help soothe them to sleep.
- Teething Toy: While not exactly a sleeping aid, it helps ease teething discomfort before bedtime.
As for the sleep environment, we’ve already covered temperature earlier, but beyond that:
- Blackout Curtains: Help block out daylight during daytime naps
- Humidifier: A humidifier helps with dry air in winter.
- White Noise Machine: This can help mask sounds like doors closing, pets moving, and other noises in your household.
- Gentle Nightlight: A dim, warm-toned nightlight makes nighttime feedings and diaper changes easier without fully waking your baby.
Bathing & Hygiene Essentials
Bath time for newborns is more than just getting clean. It’s also about caring for their delicate skin and making bath time as safe and comfortable as possible for you and your little one.
Bath Time Must-Haves
Make sure you have these ready before bath time:
- Baby Bathtub or Bath Support: Look for models with non-slip surfaces and angled designs to support their head and neck.
- Soft Washcloths: Newborn skin is fragile, so the softness of a cotton or bamboo washcloth would be gentler for the baby than a sponge or regular towel.
- Baby Wash: Use a pH-balanced, fragrance-free cleanser that is free from parabens, sulfates, and artificial dyes.
- Baby Shampoo (optional): If your baby has a full head of hair or develops cradle cap, a mild, tear-free shampoo can help. Otherwise, plain water is enough in the early weeks.
- Cup or Rinse Bottle: A small plastic cup or rinse bottle lets you gently pour water over your baby’s body and hair without startling them
- Soft Hooded Towels: These help keep your baby warm right after bath time. Look for cotton or bamboo fabric for better absorbency.
- Bath Thermometer: This will help you ensure the water temperature is safe for the baby (around 37°C to 38°C)
If you’re wondering how often to bathe your newborn, check out this guide.
For skincare considerations, we won’t be naming specific products but rather key features to look for so you can easily identify what’s safe and gentle for your baby’s skin.
- Go Fragrance-Free: Added scents can irritate sensitive skin, so it’s best to stick to unscented options.
- Check for Hypoallergenic & Dermatologist-Tested Labels: These products are less likely to cause allergic reactions or skin irritation.
- Avoid Harsh Ingredients: Stay away from products containing parabens, sulfates (SLS/SLES), phthalates, and artificial dyes, as these can cause skin irritation and dryness.
- Use Gentle Moisturizers: Instead of heavy creams, a light, fragrance-free baby lotion or natural plant-based oils (like coconut or jojoba oil) can help lock in moisture without clogging pores
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Grooming & Health Kit
Hygiene doesn’t end in the bath. Keeping your baby clean and comfortable also means trimming their nails, caring for their hair and skin, and monitoring their health. Your grooming and health kit should contain the following:
- Baby nail clippers or emery board
- Soft-bristle baby hair brush or comb
- Baby thermometer
- Nasal aspirator or bulb syringe (to clear stuffy nose)
- Baby-safe cotton swabs (for cleaning around the ears)
- Baby toothbrush or gum wipes
- First aid kit with baby-safe items (e.g. infant-safe bandages, antiseptic wipes, etc.)
Travel & Outdoor Essentials
Car Seat & Stroller Recommendations
Leaving the house with a newborn is inevitable. There’ll be times when you have no choice but to bring your baby along, whether it’s a doctor’s appointment, a grocery run, or just getting some fresh air.
All that’s to say that having a safe car seat and a reliable stroller is a non-negotiable. A car seat is mandatory for safety, while a stroller helps transport the baby.
Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing these essentials.
Choosing a Safe & Legal Car Seat in Canada
First and foremost, your car seat must meet Canadian Safety Standards, which simply means it must have National Safety Mark (NSM) issued by Transport Canada.
Second point, and just as important, is choosing the right type for your baby’s stage. Infant car seats are designed specifically for newborns, so don’t make the mistake of buying one meant for older children.
Lastly, even the safest car seat won’t protect your baby if it’s not installed properly. Always follow the seat’s instruction manual along with your vehicle’s manual to make sure it’s securely and correctly fitted.
Choosing the Right Stroller
When you’re looking for a stroller for an infant, make sure it meets these key requirements:
- Full Recline or Newborn-Ready Seat: For better back and head support
- Five-Point Safety Harness: This keeps your baby snug, preventing them from sliding or shifting around.
- Good Suspension and Durable Wheels: These help minimize shakes and bumps, making for a smoother, more comfortable ride.
- Breathable Fabric & Adjustable Canopy: Stroller breathability protects your baby from overheating, while adjustability shields them from harsh sunlight
- One-Hand Fold & Lightweight Frame: While not a newborn-specific feature, a lightweight, easy-to-fold stroller makes outings much less of a hassle.
Once you’ve made sure a stroller is newborn-friendly, you can then think about which type best suits your lifestyle. For example, you may opt for full-size strollers with more storage capacity or a compact fold stroller if you are a frequent traveler.
Babywearing & On-the-Go Must-Haves
Now, we’ve tackled some of these in the earlier sections, but here’s a quick rundown of the must-haves for hands-free movement, hygiene, and convenience when you’re out with your baby:
- Baby Carrier or Wrap
- Diaper Bag (preferably backpack style)
- Wet/Dry Bags (for soiled diapers, dirty clothes, or used wipes)
- Hand sanitizers
- Extra clothes for your baby
- Weatherproof rain cover for stroller
And speaking of weather, be sure to dress your baby in gear that keeps them comfortable, no matter the conditions, throughout the day.
- In cold months, a fleece-lined stroller cover or a babywearing jacket keeps your baby warm
- In summer, a baby hat with UV protection helps shield your baby from direct sunlight. If babywearing, breathable fabric wraps or mesh carriers help prevent overheating.
- For all seasons, packing an extra sweater, socks, and a blanket is always a good idea.
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Nursery & Home Essentials
Setting Up a Functional Nursery
Your baby’s crib, diapers, and clothing are all nursery essentials – and we’ve already covered those in detail. But having the right gear is only half the picture…
The other half is meant for creating a practical, clutter-free setup that ensures everything is within reach, especially when you’re half-asleep at 3 AM. Here’s a list of must-haves for your nursery:
- Safe Sleep Space (Crib or Bassinet)
- Dedicated Changing Station
- Nursing or Rocking Chair (Plus Side Table)
- Nightlight or Dimmable Lamp
- Baby Clothing Storage (Dresser, Closet, Bins) With Drawer Dividers
- Laundry Basket
- Toy Storage
- Baby monitor
Now, that might sound like a lot, especially if you don’t have a lot of room to dedicate a nursery. But even when you’re working with a small space, there are ways to make every inch count without feeling overwhelmed:
- Use Vertical Storage (e.g. wall-mounted shelves, hanging organizers, and stackable bins)
- Multi-Purpose Furniture (e.g. dresser that doubles as a changing table, or a crib with built-in storage drawers)
- Under-Crib Storage Bins
- Over-the-Door Organizers
- Foldable or Compact Gear (e.g. collapsible bassinet, foldable high chair)
Last but not least, keep your post-birth essentials within easy reach—things like pregnancy records and personal comfort items. We’ve covered this in our pregnancy-to-infancy checklist.
Baby Safety at Home
Once your little one starts moving, your home turns into an adventure zone filled with potential hazards. That’s why it’s important to start baby-proofing early, even in the newborn stage. Taking these safety steps now means less scrambling later when your baby starts exploring.
Here are essential baby-proofing measures to bear in mind:
- Cover electrical outlets. Use outlet covers or sliding plates.
- Anchor heavy furniture. Secure dressers, bookshelves, and TVs to the wall using anti-tip straps
- Use safety gates at doorways, staircases, and other high-risk areas.
- Secure windows and cords. Install window locks and keep blind cords and curtain ties out of reach for security against falls and strangulation hazards.
- Soften sharp edges & corners. Use corner guards or foam bumpers
- Use non-slip mats in bathrooms and high-traffic areas to prevent accidental falls
- Have emergency contacts ready, such as your pediatrician, emergency services, and other important numbers, in an easy-to-access spot.
- Supervise your baby closely, whether that’s during playtime, tummy time, or even while they’re asleep.
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