The Complete Newborn Guide and Checklist for Canadian Parents (2026)

Updated November 2026 by July Lu, parent of 3 children and owner of Active Baby

Congratulations on your new baby! This guide walks with you from pregnancy through baby's first 6 months: what to buy, when to buy it, what to expect each week, and when to call for help. We've raised 3 children and helped Canadian families for almost 20 years, so we've kept it practical.

Jump to: Free checklists · Buying on a budget · Pregnancy planner · Hospital bag · Full checklist · First week · Weeks 2–4 · Benefits and support · Months 2–3 · Months 4–6 · When to call for help

Your first 10 items

If you're short on time or money, start here.

1. Infant car seat: you need it for the drive home.
2. Crib, cradle or bassinet with a firm mattress.
3. Fitted sheets (3 or more).
4. Sleep sacks or swaddles.
5. Sleepers and bodysuits (5 or more of each).
6. Diapers and wipes.
7. Feeding basics: nursing supplies or bottles.
8. Digital thermometer.
9. Stroller or baby carrier that suits a newborn.
10. Diaper bag.

Free printable checklists

Save one to your phone, print it, or share it with family and friends.

The Essentials (1 page): just what you truly need. Open the Essentials checklist

The Complete Checklist (4 pages): want the full list? It's great for planning and building a registry. Download the Complete Checklist (PDF)

See all 4 pages

Buying on a budget

Most of this guide is optional. Your baby needs you, safe travel, a safe place to sleep, feeding, warmth and clean diapers. The rest can wait.

• Spend on safety first: choose a car seat with the National Safety Mark and a safe sleep space with a firm mattress. A plain crib or bassinet that meets the rules is just as good as an expensive one.
• Borrow or buy used: clothes and books are great choices. For gear, check for recalls, damage and missing parts. Be extra careful with used cribs and car seats, and follow the second-hand checks further down.
• Skip for now: bottle warmer, sterilizer (boiling works), wipe warmer, sound machine, baby monitor and baby shoes.
• Share the cost: use a baby registry so family and friends can group together on bigger items.
• Ask us: our team can help you choose within your budget, in store or by message.

Step 1: Your pregnancy planner

Step 2: Pack your hospital bag

Aim to be ready by week 36. Hospitals often supply basics such as pads, diapers and wipes, so ask yours what to bring.

Step 3: Your full newborn checklist

Each table shows how many to buy and whether it's a must-have. Buy the must-haves first, then add extras as you learn what your baby likes.

Sleep and nursery

Health Canada's advice for sleep spaces is simple: bare is best.

See the list (15 items)

Item	How many	Need it?	Good to know
Crib, cradle or bassinet	1	Must have	Slats no more than 6 cm apart. Don't use cribs made before September 1986.
Firm mattress	1	Must have	No gap bigger than 3 cm between mattress and sides.
Fitted sheets	3+	Must have	Spares help with night-time changes.
Mattress protectors	2+	Helpful	Use only the fitted kind made for your mattress.
Bassinet stand	1	Depends	For bassinets designed to use one.
Sleep sacks	4+	Must have	Babies don't need blankets for sleep.
Swaddles	2–4	Helpful	Stop swaddling at the first signs of rolling.
Baby monitor	1	Optional	Most useful once baby sleeps in another room.
Sound machine	1	Optional	Some babies love it, others don't need it.
Night light	1	Optional	Handy for night feeds.
Blackout blinds	1	Optional	Good for daytime naps.
Humidifier	1	Optional	Helpful in dry winter air. Clean it as the maker directs.
Rocker or glider	1	Optional	Comfortable for feeds.
Dresser	1	Optional	Check how to anchor it to the wall.
Travel crib and sheets	1, 2+ sheets	Optional	Playpens aren't recommended for unsupervised sleep in Canada.

Safe sleep basics:

• Put your baby on their back for every sleep.
• Room share for the first 6 months, with baby on their own safe sleep surface.
• Keep pillows, blankets, bumper pads, positioners and toys out of the sleep space.
• Avoid bed sharing, which raises the risk of SIDS and suffocation.
• Move your baby from a bassinet to a crib or cradle when they can roll over.
• If baby falls asleep in a car seat, stroller, swing or bouncer, move them to a safe sleep space when you arrive.

Breastfeeding

See the list (9 items)

Item	How many	Need it?	Good to know
Nursing pillow	1	Helpful	For feeding only, not for baby's sleep.
Nursing bras	3+	Helpful	Buy near the end of pregnancy for a better fit.
Breast pads	1 set	Helpful	Many parents want these in the first days.
Nipple cream	1+	Helpful	Keep it within reach of your feeding spot.
Breast pump	1	Optional	Worth it if you plan to express milk.
Hands-free pumping bra	1+	Optional	Useful if you pump often.
Milk storage bags	1 pack	Optional	Only needed if you pump.
Letdown catcher	1–2	Optional	Collects milk from the other side.
Nursing cover	1	Optional	A personal choice.

Good to know: the Canadian Paediatric Society says breastfed babies should get 400 IU of vitamin D a day, starting at birth, and some babies need more. Ask your doctor or pharmacist which product to use.

See the list (9 items)

Item	How many	Need it?	Good to know
Bottles	2 if breastfeeding, 6–10 if bottle feeding	Depends	Start with a few small ones. Babies can be choosy.
Infant formula	1 can	Depends	Some breastfeeding parents like a backup. Follow the label.
Bottle brush	1	Depends	Needed if you use bottles or a pump.
Drying rack	1	Depends	Keeps parts separate and clean.
Pump-safe dish liquid	1	Optional	Choose an unscented one.
Sterilizer	1	Optional	Boiling for 2 minutes also works.
Bottle warmer	1	Optional	Avoid the microwave, which can create hot spots.
Burp cloths	3+	Must have	You'll use them daily.
Bibs	4+	Helpful	Handy for spit-up.

If you use powdered formula: it isn't sterile. Sterilize equipment by boiling for 2 minutes. For healthy full-term babies, use boiled water cooled to room temperature. For premature or low-birth-weight babies under 2 months, or babies with weakened immune systems, Health Canada's method uses water at 70°C. Once a feed starts, use the bottle within 2 hours.

Diapering

Newborns use around 10–12 diapers a day, so have plenty on hand.

See the list (6 items)

Item	How many	Need it?	Good to know
Diapers	1–2 big packs	Must have	Don't overbuy newborn size. Babies outgrow it quickly.
Wipes	2+ packs	Must have	Fragrance-free is a gentle choice.
Diaper cream	1	Must have	Keep one at home and one in the bag.
Change table	1	Helpful	Choose one with safety straps and keep a hand on baby.
Change pad and cover	1, 2+ covers	Helpful	A portable pad is great for outings.
Diaper pail and refills	1	Optional	A lidded bin works too.

See the list (14 items)

Item	How many	Need it?	Good to know
Baby bathtub	1	Helpful	Never leave baby alone in the bath. Health Canada doesn't recommend bath seats.
Hooded towels	2+	Helpful	Regular soft towels also work.
Washcloths	10+	Must have	Also handy for spit-up.
Sea sponge	1	Optional	Soft for newborn skin.
Mild baby wash	1	Helpful	Fragrance-free is a gentle choice.
Baby lotion	1	Optional	Only if your baby needs it.
Digital thermometer	1	Must have	Rectal readings are most accurate under age 2. Fever strips are not recommended.
Nail clippers	1	Must have	Baby nails grow fast.
Brush and comb	1	Optional	A soft brush helps with cradle cap.
Nasal aspirator	1	Helpful	Handy in cold season.
First aid kit	1	Helpful	Keep it stocked and easy to find.
Soothers	3+	Optional	Wait until breastfeeding is going well. Replace every 2 months.
Soother clip	2+	Optional	Keep ribbon to 22 cm or shorter.
Baby-safe laundry detergent and stain remover	1 each	Helpful	Choose mild, fragrance-free options.

Bath safety: Health Canada says hot tap water should be no more than 49°C (120°F). A bath every 2–3 days is enough, in only a few centimetres of warm water.

Soother safety: boil a new soother for 5 minutes before first use. Never tie one around baby's neck.

Babies grow fast, so don't overbuy one size. Snaps and zippers make night-time changes easier.

See the list (8 items)

Item	How many	Need it?	Good to know
Bodysuits	5–8	Must have	Mix newborn and 0–3 month sizes.
Sleepers	5–8	Must have	Zippers are easiest at 3 a.m.
Socks	10+	Helpful	They go missing often.
Hats	2–4	Helpful	Use a warm one for outings in cold weather.
Scratch mitts	2–3	Optional	Useful for long-nailed newborns.
Sweater or jacket	1–2	Depends	More for a winter baby.
Soft shoes	1–2	Optional	Babies don't need these yet.
Going-home outfit	1	Optional	Check how it fits under car seat straps.

For safety, remove drawstrings or cords from baby clothes. Choose real sleepwear for bedtime, because loose cotton sleepwear doesn't meet flammability requirements.

Out and about

See the list (16 items)

Item	How many	Need it?	Good to know
Infant car seat	1	Must have	Look for the National Safety Mark. Seats bought outside Canada won't have it.
Convertible car seat	1 per car	Later, or instead	Some suit newborns. Check the limits.
Extra car seat base	1 per extra car	Optional	Handy for two-car families.
Stroller	1	Must have	Choose a newborn-ready seat, bassinet or car seat setup.
Travel stroller	1	Optional	Great for flights and small cars.
Car seat adapter	1	Depends	Lets a car seat click onto some strollers.
Stroller rain cover	1	Helpful	A must for Vancouver weather.
Footmuff or car seat cover	1	Helpful	Great for winter walks.
Stroller organizer, cup holder or snack tray	1	Optional	Nice extras.
Car sunshade	1	Optional	Helpful on bright days.
Back seat mirror	1 per car	Optional	Lets you check on baby when parked.
Protective seat mat	1	Optional	Check your car seat maker allows it.
Stroller and car seat travel bags	1 each	Optional	Useful if you fly.
Baby carrier or wrap	1	Helpful	Check that it suits newborns.
Diaper bag	1	Must have	Easy-clean pockets help.
Portable sound machine	1	Optional	Useful for naps on the go.

Having a winter baby? Read our guides to winter car seat safety and dressing baby for winter stroller walks.

These are lovely to have, but none are essential on day one.

See the list (9 items)

Item	How many	Need it?	Good to know
Play mat or gym	1	Helpful	Good for tummy time.
Baby bouncer	1	Optional	For awake time only, not for sleep.
Books	A few	Helpful	Reading is never too early.
Rattles and teethers	A few	Optional	Keep small parts away from children under 3.
Plush toys	1+	Optional	Keep out of the sleep space.
Crib mobile	1	Optional	Follow the maker's age limit.
Hand and footprint kit	1	Optional	A sweet gift idea.
Baby journal	1	Optional	Easy to start, lovely to keep.
Wall decor	As you like	Optional	Keep it well clear of the crib.

For you

Your recovery matters as much as the nursery.

See the list (6 items)

Item	How many	Need it?	Good to know
Maternity pads	Several packs	Must have	Also called postpartum pads.
Peri bottle	1	Helpful	Gentle for cleaning after a vaginal birth.
Ice or heating pads	1 set	Helpful	Ask your care provider what suits you.
Witch hazel pads and sitz bath	1 each	Optional	Ask your care provider first.
Stool softener	1	Optional	Ask your care provider or pharmacist.
Easy snacks and a water bottle	Lots	Must have	Keep them at your feeding spot.

Step 4: Your baby's first week

No two babies are the same, so use this as a guide. Your midwife, doctor or public health nurse can check anything that worries you.

Step 5: Weeks 2–4

• Weight: babies usually regain birth weight by 2–3 weeks.
• Crying: it often starts a few weeks after birth and can last until 3–4 months. This is called the period of PURPLE crying. If you feel overwhelmed, put baby down somewhere safe and take a break. Never shake a baby.
• Tummy time: start with a few minutes, several times a day, and add about a minute each day. Always stay with your baby.
• Your checkup: see your care provider 2 to 6 weeks after birth.
• Baby blues: tearfulness is common and usually eases within 2 weeks. If it lasts longer or feels heavy, call your care provider.

BC paperwork to do:

1. Register your baby's birth online. The BC service can also apply for the Canada Child Benefit, Social Insurance Number and Medical Services Plan coverage.
2. Allow about 4–6 weeks for processing, and 4–5 weeks for a BC Services Card.
3. Don't apply twice for the Canada Child Benefit if you've already done it through the online service.

Benefits and support for families

You may qualify for more help than you think. Amounts below are for 2026 and depend on your income, so check each official site for current details. BC families can use the B.C. Benefits Connector to see what fits.

Tip: file your taxes every year, even with little or no income. Benefits such as the Canada Child Benefit depend on it.

Step 6: Months 2–3

• Vaccines: in BC, routine vaccines are free and start at 2 months, then continue at 4 and 6 months.
• Keep practising tummy time: more time helps as your baby gets stronger.
• Outgrowing newborn gear: check sizes, sleep sack limits, and car seat height and weight limits.
• Swaddle check: stop swaddling at the first signs of rolling and move to a sleep sack.
• Crying: it usually starts to ease by 3–4 months. Ask for help whenever you need it.

Step 7: Months 4–6

• Rolling: once your baby rolls on their own, you don't need to return them to their back. Keep placing them on their back to start each sleep.
• Bassinet to crib: move to a crib or cradle when baby can roll over.
• Stroller seat: see our guide to switching from the stroller bassinet to the seat.
• Vaccines: flu and COVID-19 vaccines are available from 6 months.
• Baby-proofing: start now, before baby moves. Add gates, cabinet locks and stove guards.

Most families start solids around 6 months. Ask your doctor if you're unsure about timing.

See the list (8 items)

Item	How many	Need it?	Good to know
Highchair	1	Must have	Choose one that's easy to wipe clean.
Silicone or long-sleeve bibs	2+	Helpful	Saves on laundry.
Plates and bowls	2+ each	Helpful	Suction bases help.
Spoons	2+	Must have	Soft tips are gentle on gums.
Sippy, straw or open cup	2+	Helpful	Try a few styles.
Snack cup	1	Optional	Handy for outings.
Baby toothbrush and toothpaste	1	Helpful	Start when teeth appear.
Travel highchair	1	Optional	Useful for eating out.

When to call for help

Call 911 if your baby: has trouble breathing or swallowing, is choking, or looks pale, blue or grey.

See a doctor urgently if your baby:

• Is under 3 months with a fever: 38°C or higher rectally, or 37.6°C or higher under the arm.
• Is under 6 months and has a fever (see a doctor).
• Hasn't peed in 24 hours, or is very sleepy and hard to wake.
• Is breathing more than 60 times a minute when calm.
• Is feeding fewer than 8 times in 24 hours, or is irritable and crying all the time.
• Still has black poop by day 3–4, or looks more yellow.
• Has redness, swelling or yellow fluid at the umbilical cord.

Call your care provider if you:

• Soak 1 pad an hour, twice in a row, or pass clots larger than a plum.
• Have a fever of 38°C or higher.
• Have breast swelling, redness or heat for more than 48 hours.
• Feel sad, anxious or unlike yourself for more than 2 weeks.

If you have thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, or feel confused or out of touch with reality, go to the emergency department or call 911. You can also call or text 9-8-8 at any time. For BC support, contact your public health nurse or Pacific Post Partum Support Society.

What to buy new, and what can be second-hand

What you can skip for now

Wipe warmers, baby shoes and lots of newborn-size clothes can wait. Start small, and let your baby show you what you really need.

Questions parents ask

What do I really need for a newborn? A safe sleep space, car seat, diapers, clothes, feeding supplies and a thermometer.

How many clothes does a newborn need? Around 5–8 bodysuits and 5–8 sleepers is a good start, and more if you won't do laundry often.

When should I start buying? Start big items around week 14 and aim to finish by week 36.

Do I need a bottle sterilizer? No. Boiling equipment for 2 minutes also works.

How often should a newborn feed? At least 8 times in 24 hours.

We're here to help

Create a baby registry so friends and family can buy what you need or share a bigger gift. For help choosing, visit our North Vancouver or Langley store or contact us.