1. You need a car seat. Because unless you live in NYC and plan to use a cab, you need one to take your baby home. Most people opt for an infant car seat. I had an infant car seat with my first and then learned my lesson with the other 2 and got a newborn to booster convertible. All my 3 kids ride in Diono car seats! Of course a car seat is a newborn essentials!!!

2. A play to sleep is NEXT. Unless you are planning to bed-share, which is not recommended by the AAP, you need a crib, Moses basket, pack and play for the baby to sleep.

3. Swaddle blankets are key. They are more than blankets. They are the only thing a newborn needs as clothing. Think about it, you can even use these as a diaper, to cover while nursing, to cover the stroller or car seat from the sun. If you have talent even make it a shirt.

4. Diaper bag. Because you need somewhere to put the diapers and wipes and blankets.

5. Of course diapers are super important no matter if you are doing cloth or disposables. The hospital is pretty good about stocking the diapers so unless you are set on a specific brand or material, you don’t have to take a lot to the hospital.