Preparing for a new baby can be overwhelming, but having a checklist can help you stay organized and ensure you have everything you need before your little one arrives. Here’s a comprehensive prebaby checklist for parents. Everything you need and a little extra!

Creating a list of must-have baby items before having a baby is a practical and thoughtful approach for several reasons, preparedness, budget, prioritization, registry list, or even preferred comfort and convenience. Babies can be costly, so knowing that you may need to allocate funds in different areas than other parents. A list of essential items ensures you are prepared for your baby’s arrival. This can reduce stress and last-minute scrambling to gather necessities.

With a list, you can efficiently shop for baby items without getting overwhelmed by choices. It can save you time and help you avoid impulse purchases. If you plan to have a baby shower or if friends and family want to buy gifts for the baby, having a list can serve as a registry, ensuring you receive items you need and want. Also, knowing you have the necessary items can boost your confidence as a new parent, making the transition smoother.

It’s important to note that every family’s needs and circumstances are unique, so your list may differ from others. Consider your budget, living space, parenting style, and personal preferences when creating your must-have baby items list. You can seek advice from experienced parents, parenting websites, and healthcare professionals to help you compile a comprehensive and practical list. Or, you can just read below! P.S. Most of these are things I either received or bought myself for my daughter.

You may also be interested in my post on postpartum and baby gadgets, which are a major plus!

Bedding:

Crib

While this may seem evident to many, it’s still worth emphasizing that selecting a crib that can transform into a toddler bed or even a full-size bed down the road can prove to be a better financial decision. If you anticipate a change in your child’s style preferences as they age, it might be prudent to opt for a more budget-friendly option. I chose a crib with versatile conversion options for my little one, offering multiple configuration possibilities.

Crib Mattress and Mattress Cover

Most crib mattresses are already wet protectant. The mattress cover adds cushion, an extra waterproof layer, and an easy cleaning process by being machine washable. It is entirely up to you whether or not you choose to use one.

2-4 Sets of Sheets

Babies can be messy, whether it’s spit-up, diaper leaks, or other accidents. Multiple sets of crib sheets ensure you always have a clean one on hand when accidents happen. Some parents prefer to have different materials or designs for their crib sheets. For example, they might have one set of cotton sheets for warm weather and another set of flannel sheets for colder nights. Different options allow parents to choose the most suitable sheets for their baby’s comfort.

Travel:

Carseat

Selecting the right car seat for your child is paramount for their safety during every journey. Begin by considering the type of car seat: infant, convertible, or booster. You may want to start with an infant carseat, but some babies are big enough to start in a convertible carseat. Ensure the car seat complies with your country’s safety standards and has a proper certification label. Proper installation is crucial, so follow the manufacturer’s instructions meticulously or seek professional help if needed. Choose a car seat that fits securely in your vehicle and provides adequate comfort for your child. Regularly inspect and replace car seats as your child grows, ensuring they are always secured in a suitable, properly installed seat for their age and size. Safety should always be the top priority when making this important decision.

Baby Carrier

A baby carrier is a device that allows parents to carry an infant or toddler on their body, typically leaving their hands free. Baby carriers come in various styles and designs, each offering different features and benefits. Baby carriers promote close physical contact between the baby and the caregiver, fostering a strong emotional bond. Carriers offer more mobility and are often more practical than strollers in crowded or uneven terrains. Great for shopping, you never have to worry about reaching for or looking for something without watching your baby.

Being carried in a baby carrier can be soothing for babies, as they are close to their caregiver’s body heat, heartbeat, and movement. Carriers can also help with the baby’s physical development by promoting proper hip alignment and allowing them to experience different positions and movements.

Carseat Mirror or Camera

Having a car seat mirror or camera is essential for several reasons. First, it allows parents or caregivers to keep a watchful eye on their child while driving, promoting safety and peace of mind. Second, with a quick glance in the mirror or at the camera display, you can ensure that your child is comfortable and secure without needing to turn around, reducing distractions.

Secondly, it helps maintain eye contact and engagement with your child, which can reassure them during the ride and help prevent fussiness or anxiety. Lastly, a car seat mirror or camera aids in addressing any immediate needs, such as providing a pacifier or soothing a crying child, without compromising road safety. Overall, these devices enhance your child’s safety and comfort during car journeys.

Stroller/Travel System

Choosing the right stroller or travel system is a critical decision for parents on the go. Begin by assessing your specific needs: consider your lifestyle, where you’ll use the stroller most often, and whether you need a full travel system with a compatible car seat. Pay attention to features like maneuverability, size when folded, and ease of use. Ensure it has a comfortable and secure harness for your child and adequate storage space for your essentials. Test-drive the stroller to check its handling and comfort; most stores have built displays. Also, prioritize safety certifications and reviews from other parents. By carefully considering your unique requirements and thoroughly researching your options, you can choose a stroller or travel system that perfectly suits your family’s needs and enhances your daily adventures.

Nursery Furniture:

Changing Table

If you choose to get a crib with a changing table attached to it, you do lose out on a bit of storage space. Choosing the right changing table will give you an advantage over diaper time. Making things move quicker, more efficiently, and without fuss is all that any parent asks for out of a changing table.

Look for sturdiness, the type of space or decor you are looking for, and movability in the space that you have. Some opt for an open changing table so they can add baskets and bins that match the theme of their room. Some choose a more closed-in table with drawers and doors for a sleek and elegant look in their nursery.

Rocking Chair/Glider

A rocking chair or glider is a valuable addition to a nursery for various practical and comforting reasons. These chairs offer a comfortable and supportive spot for parents to feed, cuddle, or soothe their baby, fostering a strong emotional bond. The gentle rocking motion of these chairs can be incredibly soothing for both the baby and the caregiver, making them particularly useful for lulling a fussy or colicky baby to sleep. During nighttime feedings, they provide a comfortable and relaxing seating option.

As your baby grows, the chair can serve as a cozy spot for reading bedtime stories or spending quality time together. Additionally, rocking chairs and gliders come in various styles and colors, making them both functional and aesthetically pleasing additions to the nursery decor. Many of them also feature pockets or storage options for convenient access to baby essentials. In essence, a rocking chair or glider enhances the nursery environment, offering a comfortable and soothing space for bonding and essential caregiving tasks.

Rug

A rug provides a soft and comfortable surface for babies to crawl, play, and explore. It offers a more cushioned area compared to hard flooring, making it more comfortable for babies to sit, roll, or lie down. In rooms with hard flooring such as wood or tile, a rug can add warmth and insulation, especially during colder seasons. It helps create a cozy and inviting environment for babies to spend time in. Babies who are learning to crawl or walk may have occasional falls. A rug can provide a cushioned landing surface, reducing the impact of falls and helping prevent injuries

Rugs with non-slip backing or rug pads can help keep the rug in place and prevent it from sliding on smooth flooring surfaces, reducing the risk of slips or trips for both babies and caregivers. Rugs help absorb sound and reduce echoing in rooms with hard flooring, creating a quieter and more peaceful environment for babies to sleep and play in. This can be particularly beneficial in apartment buildings or homes with multiple levels.

Baby Jumper

A baby jumper, also known as a baby bouncer or baby jumper, serves several valuable purposes for infants and parents. Firstly, it provides entertainment and exercise for babies through a suspended seat that allows controlled bouncing and jumping. This activity not only keeps babies entertained but also strengthens their leg muscles.

Additionally, many baby jumpers come equipped with interactive toys, music, and lights, stimulating a baby’s senses and promoting sensory and motor skill development. The hands-free moments it offers can be a lifesaver for parents, allowing them to attend to other tasks or take a short break while their baby remains happily occupied. Some babies find the rhythmic bouncing soothing, making it a helpful tool for calming fussiness.

Moreover, a baby jumper can encourage independence as babies explore their surroundings safely and securely. It can also contribute to the transition to standing and walking as it helps build leg strength and coordination. However, it’s important to use baby jumpers in accordance with safety guidelines and not rely on them excessively, as babies also need opportunities for unrestricted movement and developmental activities like tummy time and crawling.

Diapering:

Diapers

Diapers are very vital. Otherwise, you end up covered in urine and feces (more than usual). However, there is a choice of using cloth (reusable) diapers or disposable diapers. There are pros and cons to both types of diapers. You can check out more about that in a future post of mine.

But you need to choose the style and brand of diaper. There are many types of cloth diapers and even more disposable diapers. Organic vs. nonorganic, type of absorbency, wrap style, size—all of these will need to be factors in choosing diapers. Ask for diapers at your shower, and ask for sizes larger than newborn and 1. You will use sizes 2 and 5 more than anything; however, all sizes are needed.

You can always take the boxes back and swap them for a different brand or size. Here is a try-it-kit for different types of diapers. Also, many companies will send you a mini care kit with diapers and wipes.

Diaper Box – 104 Diapers & 176 Wipes

Wipes

Just like diapers, you will need to choose the right type of wipes. I recommend the kind for sensitive skin. Target actually has a very decent brand of wipes for sensitive skin. There isn’t a definitive “best” brand of baby wipes, as preferences can vary depending on factors such as sensitivity, texture, thickness, scent, and ingredients. However, several brands are well-regarded by parents and caregivers for their quality and effectiveness.

Diaper Bag

A diaper bag is an essential item for parents and caregivers of babies and toddlers. It is designed to carry all the necessary items needed for taking care of a baby while on the go. Diaper bags are designed with multiple compartments and pockets to help keep baby essentials organized and easily accessible. This allows parents to quickly find items like diapers, wipes, bottles, and pacifiers without having to rummage through a bag. Having a dedicated bag for baby items means parents can grab and go, knowing that everything they need is in one place. This is particularly useful for quick trips or when in a rush.

Diaper Pail

A diaper pail is a specialized trash can designed specifically for disposing of used diapers. It offers several advantages over a regular trash can when it comes to handling diaper waste. One of the primary benefits of a diaper pail is its ability to contain and minimize odors. Many diaper pails have airtight seals, built-in deodorizers, or special bags that help trap smells, preventing them from permeating the room. Diaper pails are designed to be user-friendly, often allowing for one-handed operation so that parents can easily dispose of a diaper while holding their baby. This can be especially helpful during diaper changes.

Diaper pails typically have a larger capacity than standard trash cans, meaning they need to be emptied less frequently. This can save time and reduce the hassle of constantly taking out the trash. Many diaper pails are designed to blend in with nursery decor. They come in various styles and colors, making them a functional and aesthetically pleasing addition to the baby’s room.

Clothing:

Sleepers

Onesies and sleepers serve similar purposes in a baby’s wardrobe, but they have some differences that make each suitable for different situations. Sleepers are usually designed as standalone garments for sleepwear. While cozy for nighttime sleep, sleepers may be too warm for daytime wear in some climates or environments. I definitely recommend avoiding the button-up sleepers at all costs. There are so many snaps that it takes forever. The zipper sleepers are far superior.

Onesies

Onesies typically have snap closures at the crotch, making them easier to put on and take off compared to sleepers, which often have full-length zippers or snaps that run from the neck to the feet. This makes onesies a convenient choice for quick diaper changes, especially during the day when the baby is not going down for a nap. Onesies are versatile for layering under other clothing. They can be worn alone on warm days or paired with pants, skirts, or shorts for added warmth or style.

Onesies are often made from lighter-weight fabrics and have short sleeves or sleeveless designs, making them suitable for warmer weather or for babies who tend to overheat easily. They also provide greater freedom of movement for the baby’s arms and legs, which can be beneficial during playtime or when the baby is awake and active.

Socks

During colder seasons, socks can help keep a baby’s feet warm and comfortable, especially when they are indoors or during outdoor activities. In homes with central heating or during winter months, socks less necessary for keeping a baby’s feet warm. Socks made from soft, breathable materials can provide additional comfort for babies, especially if they are wearing shoes or have sensitive skin. Socks can help protect a baby’s feet from rough surfaces, friction, or irritation, particularly when they are learning to crawl or walk.

Mittens

Mittens can help keep a baby’s hands warm, particularly in colder environments or during cooler seasons. Babies have smaller bodies and may have difficulty regulating their body temperature, so keeping their extremities warm can contribute to their overall comfort. Some babies may have sensitive skin that is prone to dryness or irritation. Mittens can provide a soft barrier between the baby’s hands and potential irritants, such as rough fabrics or surfaces.

Babies often have sharp fingernails that can accidentally scratch their face, particularly during sleep or when they are exploring their surroundings with their hands. Mittens can prevent babies from scratching themselves, reducing the risk of skin irritation or injury. Some babies may develop a habit of chewing or sucking on their hands, particularly during teething. While this behavior is normal, wearing mittens can help reduce the amount of saliva and bacteria that come into contact with the hands.

Swaddles

Babies, especially newborns, have a harder time regulating their body temperature compared to adults. A hat can help keep them warm in cooler environments, such as when they are outside or in air-conditioned spaces. Babies have sensitive skin that can burn easily. A hat with a wide brim can provide shade and protect their face, ears, and neck from harmful UV rays when they are outdoors. In the first few days and weeks after birth, many hospitals and parents use hats to help keep newborns comfortable. The familiar warmth can also provide a sense of security for the baby.

When and What Type of Hat is Needed

• Newborn Stage: Right after birth, babies often wear soft, stretchy hats to keep warm as they adjust to the outside world. These are typically made of materials like cotton or fleece.
• Cold Weather: In colder climates or during winter months, a warm hat made of wool or fleece can keep the baby’s head warm. Look for hats that cover the ears for extra warmth.
• Hot Weather: In warm or sunny weather, lightweight, breathable hats with wide brims or sun hats are ideal to protect the baby from the sun while keeping them cool.
• Sleeping: It is generally not recommended for babies to wear hats while sleeping indoors, as overheating can be a risk factor for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). However, in cold climates, if a baby is sleeping outdoors (in a well-ventilated pram or stroller, for instance), a warm hat might be used under careful supervision.

Feeding:

Bottles

Choosing the right baby bottles can depend on various factors, including your baby’s age, feeding preferences, any existing feeding issues, and personal preferences. Baby bottles are commonly made from plastic, glass, or silicone. Plastic bottles are lightweight and durable, while glass bottles are easier to clean and don’t contain any chemicals that may leach into the milk. Silicone bottles are a newer option that is soft, lightweight, and often collapsible for easy storage.

Nipples come in different shapes, sizes, and flow rates. Newborns usually start with slow-flow nipples, and you can gradually increase the flow rate as your baby grows. Some babies may prefer a particular nipple shape, such as orthodontic or wide-necked, so you may need to try different types to see what your baby prefers.

Check out these awesome multipacks. They make a great baby shower gift for parents to get an idea of which bottle works best.

Bottle Box (5 Bottles)

Glass Bottle Box

Bottle Brush

A bottle brush is a cleaning tool specifically designed to help thoroughly clean baby bottles, nipples, and other feeding accessories. It consists of a handle with bristles at one end, often made from materials like nylon, silicone, or sponge. Baby bottles have narrow necks and are often used to contain milk, formula, or juice, which can leave residues and promote bacterial growth. A bottle brush is designed to reach into the deep, narrow spaces of the bottle, ensuring thorough cleaning and removal of any residues.

Bibs

Bibs shield the baby’s clothes from food and drink spills during feeding times. This helps keep their outfits clean and reduces the need for frequent clothing changes. Babies, especially during teething, tend to drool a lot. Bibs can absorb drool and prevent it from soaking into the baby’s clothes, which can help avoid skin irritation and keep the baby comfortable. It is much easier to clean or replace a bib than an entire outfit. Many bibs are made from materials that are easy to wipe clean or are machine washable, making them convenient for parents.

Formula Container for On-The-Go

An on-the-go formula container can be incredibly useful for parents who need to feed their baby while away from home. Whether you’re going on a day trip, running errands, or traveling long distances, having a portable formula container allows you to easily carry pre-measured portions of formula with you. This ensures that you have enough formula to feed your baby while you’re out and about without the need to bring along bulky cans or boxes of formula.

On-the-go formula containers are designed to be compact and easy to transport. They typically feature compartments or compartments that can be filled with individual servings of formula powder, making it quick and convenient to prepare a bottle when your baby gets hungry.

Breast Milk Bags

Breast milk bags are storage containers specifically designed for storing expressed breast milk. They are typically made of durable, food-grade plastic and are designed to be leak-proof and freezer-safe. Breast milk bags come in various sizes and designs, but they generally have a sealable top or zipper closure to prevent leaks and contamination.

Breast milk bags are used to store expressed breast milk for later use. They are convenient for storing breast milk in the refrigerator or freezer until it is needed for feeding. Breast milk bags are lightweight and portable, making them easy to transport. They are ideal for storing breast milk when traveling or when you need to pump breast milk at work or away from home. Breast milk bags are freezer-safe, allowing you to store breast milk for an extended period. Properly stored breast milk can be frozen for several months, providing a convenient supply of breast milk for feeding your baby.

Check out this breast milk organizer! I used a cardboard box, and it worked, but this would have also been nice to have.

Bottle Warmer

A bottle warmer is a device designed to safely and gently warm bottles of breast milk or formula to a suitable temperature for feeding. It typically consists of a heating element and a chamber or basket where you place the bottle. Bottle warmers are specifically designed to warm breast milk or formula gradually and evenly, helping to preserve the nutrients and properties of the milk. This gentle heating method reduces the risk of overheating or hot spots, which can occur when using a microwave or stovetop.

Bottle warmers are convenient to use, especially during nighttime feedings or when you need to quickly prepare a bottle. Many models have preset temperature settings or automatic shut-off features, making them easy to use without the need for constant monitoring. Bottle warmers can be used with various types of bottles, including plastic, glass, and silicone. They can also accommodate different sizes and shapes of bottles, as well as baby food jars and pouches, making them versatile for use with different feeding methods.

This is the warmer we used, and we absolutely loved it. Be sure to clean it and change the water out often to prevent mold or mildew.

Breast Pump

Your insurance can hook you up with a breast pump, and it’s either super cheap or even free. But I gotta admit, I like having a couple of these bad boys, especially when I have to head back to work. These little in-shirt pumps are like magic. They don’t hold a ton, and I don’t trust the ounce measurements, so I always end up pouring the liquid gold into some storage bottles or bags. When getting one through insurance, be sure to get a HOSPITAL-GRADE pump. Hospital-grade breast pumps are powerful and efficient pumps designed for frequent or prolonged use. They are often used by mothers who have difficulty breastfeeding or need to establish or maintain a milk supply. Hospital-grade pumps are available for rental and are commonly used in hospitals, lactation clinics, and breastfeeding support centers.

Manual breast pumps are operated by hand and require you to pump the handle or lever manually to create suction and express milk. They are typically lightweight, portable, and relatively inexpensive, making them ideal for occasional use, travel, or as a backup pump. Wearable breast pumps are compact and discreet pumps that can be worn inside a bra, allowing you to pump hands-free. They are typically lightweight, quiet, and portable, making them convenient for use at home, work, or while on the go. Wearable breast pumps are ideal for busy mothers who need to pump discreetly or multitask while pumping. Great for when going back to work!

Burp Cloths

Babies often spit up milk or formula during or after feeding. Burp cloths are placed over the caregiver’s shoulder or lap to protect clothing from getting soiled. They are handy for gently wiping the baby’s mouth and face to clean up any milk or formula residue, drool, or spit-up. Burp cloths are small, portable, and easy to carry in a diaper bag, making them convenient for use at home or on the go.

High Chair

High chairs are equipped with safety straps or harnesses to secure the child in place, reducing the risk of falls or accidents during meal times. Elevating the child to table height allows them to participate in family meals and social interactions, promoting bonding and social development. High chairs encourage independence by allowing the child to feed themselves and develop fine motor skills. They can practice grasping utensils, feeding themselves, and exploring different foods.

Health and Safety:

First Aid Kit

Babies and young children can experience medical emergencies or injuries, such as choking, falls, cuts, burns, or allergic reactions, that require immediate attention. A well-equipped first aid kit allows caregivers to respond quickly and effectively to these situations. In emergencies, every second counts. Having essential first aid supplies readily available can help stabilize the child’s condition while waiting for professional medical help to arrive.

Baby Grooming Kit

A grooming kit for babies is a collection of essential tools and products designed to help parents and caregivers maintain the hygiene and well-being of infants and young children. Trimming a baby’s nails is important to prevent scratching and potential injury to themselves or others. Grooming kits typically contain baby nail clippers or scissors designed specifically for infants, as well as emery boards or nail files for smoothing rough edges.

Good oral hygiene is essential even for babies who do not have teeth yet. Grooming kits may include a fingertip toothbrush or silicone toothbrush for gently cleaning the baby’s gums and tongue, as well as a gum massager for teething relief. Babies can experience nasal congestion due to mucus buildup, especially during colds or allergies. A grooming kit may include a nasal aspirator or bulb syringe for safely removing nasal secretions and helping the baby breathe more comfortably.

Check out this awesome first aid plus grooming kit!

Thermometer (rectal or temporal)

Temporal Thermometer

1. Non-Invasive: Temporal thermometers are non-invasive and easy to use. They require a gentle swipe across the baby’s forehead, making them well-tolerated by infants, especially those who may be sensitive or fussy.
2. Quick Reading: Temporal thermometers provide a temperature reading within seconds, making them convenient for parents and caregivers who want a fast and hassle-free way to monitor their baby’s temperature.
3. Suitable for Newborns: Temporal thermometers are suitable for use with newborns, as they do not require inserting anything into the baby’s body, reducing the risk of discomfort or injury.
4. Safe and Hygienic: Temporal thermometers do not come into direct contact with the baby’s skin, minimizing the risk of spreading germs or infections between individuals.

Rectal Thermometer

1. Accuracy: Rectal thermometers are considered one of the most accurate methods for measuring a baby’s body temperature. The rectal temperature closely reflects the baby’s core body temperature, providing an accurate fever assessment.
2. Reliability: Rectal thermometers are less affected by environmental factors such as room temperature or external heat sources, ensuring more reliable temperature readings.
3. Recommended by Healthcare Professionals: Many healthcare professionals recommend rectal thermometers for infants under three months of age or when accuracy is paramount, such as during illness or fever.
4. Ease of Use: While some parents may feel apprehensive about using a rectal thermometer, it can be a straightforward and effective method for measuring a baby’s temperature with proper technique and guidance.

Baby-Friendly Laundry Detergent

Choosing the best detergent for babies involves considering their sensitive skin, potential allergies, and the effectiveness of the detergent in removing stains and odors. Fragrances can be irritating to delicate baby skin, so opting for fragrance-free or unscented detergents can help minimize the risk of irritation. Choose detergents that are free of harsh chemicals, dyes, and optical brighteners, as these additives can also be abrasive and irritating to the skin.

Recommended Detergents for Babies

1. Dreft: Dreft is a popular brand known for its gentle formulation specifically designed for baby clothes. It is hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and gentle on sensitive skin.
2. Seventh Generation Baby Laundry Detergent: Seventh Generation offers a baby-specific laundry detergent that is made with plant-based ingredients and is free of dyes, fragrances, and optical brighteners.
3. Babyganics 3X Baby Laundry Detergent: Babyganics offers a gentle and effective laundry detergent for baby clothes that is plant-based, fragrance-free, and specially formulated for sensitive skin.
4. All Free Clear: This fragrance-free, hypoallergenic detergent is suitable for babies and recommended by dermatologists for sensitive skin.
5. Eco-Me Natural Plant Extracts Baby Laundry Detergent: Eco-Me offers a natural and eco-friendly laundry detergent for baby clothes made with plant extracts and essential oils. It is free of harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances.

Babyganics 3X Baby Laundry Detergent, Fragrance-Free

Dreft Stage 1: Newborn Baby Liquid Laundry Detergent

Seventh Generation Clean with Purpose

all Liquid Laundry Detergent

Eco-Me Natural Non-Toxic Concentrated Liquid Laundry Detergent

Outlet Covers

Outlet covers are important safety devices designed to protect babies and young children from the dangers of electrical outlets. Babies and toddlers are naturally curious and love to explore their surroundings by touching and putting objects in their mouths. Electrical outlets can be particularly enticing to young children, but inserting objects into outlets can result in electric shock, burns, or other serious injuries. Children may accidentally come into contact with electrical outlets while crawling, walking, or playing near them, especially if outlets are located at child height or easily accessible areas.

Outlet covers serve as a physical barrier that prevents children from accessing the electrical contacts within the outlet. They typically cover the openings of the outlet, making it difficult for children to insert objects or fingers into the slots. Outlet covers are easy to install and come in various designs, including plug-in covers, sliding covers, and screw-on covers, to accommodate different types of outlets and preferences.

Cabinet locks

Cabinets often contain household chemicals such as cleaning products, detergents, pesticides, and medications, which can be toxic if ingested or come into contact with the skin or eyes. Cabinets may store sharp objects like knives, scissors, razors, or kitchen utensils, which pose a risk of cuts, punctures, or other injuries to curious children. Small items such as batteries, coins, buttons, or small toys can pose choking hazards if swallowed by young children.

Babies and toddlers are naturally curious and may explore cabinets and drawers out of curiosity. They can accidentally pull heavy items or containers off shelves, causing injuries or even entrapment. Closing cabinet doors and drawers can pinch or crush little fingers, leading to painful injuries or even fractures. Cabinet locks act as a physical barrier that prevents children from opening cabinets and accessing potentially hazardous items inside. They typically secure cabinet doors and drawers with locks, latches, or straps.

Door Handle Covers

Children may accidentally wander into unsafe areas such as bathrooms, laundry rooms, or garages, where they can access hazardous items or equipment. Door handle locks prevent children from entering these areas unsupervised. Unsupervised children may attempt to climb or play on stairs, balconies, or outdoor areas, leading to falls or injuries. Door handle locks can restrict access to stairways and outdoor spaces, reducing the risk of accidents.

Types of Door Handle Locks

1. Latch Covers: Latch covers fit over the existing door handle or knob, making it difficult for children to grip and turn the handle to open the door. Some latch covers require pressing a button or manipulating a mechanism to release the lock, which can be challenging for young children.
2. Handle Covers: Handle covers encase the entire door handle or knob, preventing children from accessing the mechanism to open the door. Some handle covers feature a lock or latch that can be engaged to secure the cover in place.
3. Keyed Locks: Keyed door handle locks require a key to unlock and open the door, providing a higher level of security and control over access to certain areas of the home.

Baby Gates

Baby gates are primarily used to block off stairways, balconies, or other elevated areas where babies and toddlers may be at risk of falling. Stair gates help prevent accidents and injuries by creating a physical barrier that restricts access to these areas. Baby gates can also be used to block off rooms or areas of the home where there are potential hazards, such as kitchens, bathrooms, or home offices. By restricting access to these areas, baby gates help keep children safe and prevent accidents.

Check out these other great Safety Accessories on Babylist

Here is an editable Checklist for your upcoming arrival!

Don’t forget to check out my other blog posts!