A Minimalist Newborn Shopping Guide: Preparing for Baby + Postpartum Care in Boulder & the Front Range
Welcoming a newborn is one of life’s most tender thresholds, and preparing for that moment doesn’t need to be overwhelming or expensive. As a postpartum doula in Boulder, I regularly support families in simplifying their preparations—so they can focus on rest, connection, and confidence, not clutter.
Here’s a minimalist, essentials-only newborn shopping list, curated with local Boulder/Denver shops, plus links to herbal support products from Rebecca’s Herbal Apothecary, and a fully printable checklist at the end.
Why a Minimalist List Works for Newborns
New babies arrive with small needs: warmth, full bellies, clean diapers, and loving arms. When you prepare minimally, you create:
A calmer, clearer home
Fewer unnecessary purchases
More space for bonding, rest, and recovery
Less waste and less stress
And when you pair minimal gear with strong support—like overnight postpartum care—your transition into parenthood feels lighter and more supported.
Newborn Essentials (With Local Shopping in Boulder/Denver)
1. Safe Sleep Space
Choose one:
Bassinet
Crib with firm mattress
Travel crib
Local options:
Baby’s Away (Denver/Boulder) – Rentals are great for trying gear before buying.
Little Bird Denver – Sometimes carries high-quality sleep gear.
2. Swaddles or Sleep Sacks
You only need:
3-5 swaddles (muslin, velcro, etc)
3. Minimal Clothing
Start simple:
6–8 onesies
4 sleepers
A few socks
1 warm layer
Local shopping:
Wild West Baby Co (Denver) – Beautiful, curated newborn clothing
Little Bird Denver
Baby Doe’s (Golden) – artisan handmade pieces
4. Diapering Essentials
Choose disposable or cloth.
You need:
Diapers (start with small packs or a cloth starter set)
Wipes
Diaper cream
Portable changing pad
Local:
Bundle Baby (Denver/Boulder area) – Cloth diapers + education
5. Feeding Essentials
If chestfeeding:
Nursing pads
Nipple balm
1–2 supportive bras
Big water bottle
If bottle-feeding:
4–6 bottles
Bottle brush
Formula (if using)
No need for sterilizers, warmers, or gadgets unless they help you.
6. Baby Carrier
A wrap or soft structured carrier keeps baby close and reduces crying.
Local:
Wild West Baby Co
Some models also at Little Bird Denver
7. Bathing + Hygiene
Mild baby wash
Soft washcloths
A regular towel
Baby tub optional
8. Postpartum Essentials for You
Peri bottle
Pads or adult diapers
Snacks + quick grab foods
Herbal postpartum teas
Cozy robe
Local herbal support:
🌿 Rebecca’s Herbal Apothecary (Boulder)
Choose from:
Pregnancy tea blends
Postpartum recovery teas
Nipple balms
Baby-safe salves
Herbal steam blends
Fully curated pregnancy + newborn gift boxes
Website: Rebecca’s Herbal Apothecary & Supply
(You can also visit their shop on Spruce Street for in-person guidance.)
9. Support > Stuff
The most important resource you can prepare for newborn care is support.
My overnight postpartum doula care offers:
Restful nights
Feeding support
Newborn care (diapers, soothing, tracking, burping)
Emotional support
A sense of calm and steadiness during the early weeks
This support allows families to follow a truly minimalist approach—because you don’t have to rely on gear to survive exhaustion.
Printable Minimalist Newborn Shopping List
Minimalist Newborn Shopping Checklist
✔ Sleep
☐ Bassinet or crib or travel crib
☐ Firm mattress
☐ Fitted crib sheets (2)
✔ Swaddles / Sacks
☐ 2–4 muslin swaddles
☐ OR 2 sleep sacks
✔ Clothing
☐ 6–8 onesies (newborn + 0–3 month mix)
☐ 4 sleepers/footed pajamas
☐ 2 hats (optional)
☐ Socks (2–4 pairs)
☐ 1 warm layer
✔ Diapering
☐ Cloth diapers (12–18) or disposables
☐ Wipes
☐ Diaper cream
☐ Changing pad or towel
☐ Wet bag (if using cloth)
✔ Feeding
If chestfeeding:
☐ Nipple balm
☐ Nursing pads
☐ Water bottle
☐ Nursing bras (2-3)
If bottle-feeding:
☐ 4–6 bottles
☐ Formula (if using)
☐ Bottle brush
✔ Bathing
☐ Gentle baby wash
☐ Washcloths
☐ Soft towel
✔ Soothing / Connection
☐ Baby carrier or wrap
☐ Soft blanket/playmat
✔ Parent Postpartum Care
☐ Peri bottle
☐ Pads/adult diapers
☐ Easy snacks
☐ Herbal teas
☐ Sitz bath/herbal soak
☐ Comfortable clothing/robe
✔ Optional
☐ Pacifier
☐ Memory journal
☐ Small storage basket