Newborn sleep is unpredictable. Some nights are quieter than others. Some nights are long. No product guarantees sleep, and it is likely that nothing you buy will magically make you get a solid 8 hours.

If I’m being honest, there are very few true essentials when it comes to newborn sleep. A safe place to sleep matters. Everything else is about finding what works for you and your baby.

This isn’t a list of must-haves or miracle solutions. It’s simply what helps me feel more supported during the night in the early weeks.

If something here works for you, great. If it doesn’t, that’s okay too.

1. A Safe Place to Sleep

This is the real non-negotiable. A bassinet or crib that meets safety guidelines gives your newborn a secure place to rest and gives you peace of mind during the night.

Having baby close by in those early weeks makes nighttime feeds easier and helps me settle back into sleep more quickly.

I personally have used the Baby Delight Beside Me Dreamer Bassinet for both of my babies.

2. White Noise

We were gifted a Hatch Rest Sound Machine with my oldest and it’s been in her room since she was born. I actually didn’t realize how much she loves it until recently (and she’s two!).

After four weeks, I broke down and bought another Hatch for my newborn, and while it didn’t make my baby sleep through the night, it did help create a calmer environment for sleep.

We use a sound machine to soften household noise and keep the room feeling consistent. It was supportive, not magical.

3. Simple Sleepers

Newborns don’t need complicated pajamas. We rely on footed sleepers and adjust layers based on room temperature.

Comfort and ease matter more than anything when you’re just trying to get through the night.

4. Swaddles (Even If Your Baby Seems to Hate Them)

I keep a few types on hand and pay attention to how my baby responds rather than giving up after one rough night. For many newborns, swaddling helps them feel more secure and settle more easily.

I personally love the HALO Sleepsack Swaddle. They’re very easy to use, come in so many patterns and designs, and both of my babies took to them quite well. An added bonus is that you’re also able to use them to help transition out of the swaddle when the time comes.

It’s also important to follow safe sleep guidelines. Swaddling should stop at the first signs of rolling, and babies should always be placed on their backs to sleep.

5. A Low, Gentle Night Light

6. Nighttime Supplies Within Reach

Keeping nighttime essentials close makes a bigger difference than I expected.

Diapers, wipes, burp cloths, water, and snacks all within arm’s reach help minimize movement and keep feeds as low-key as possible. I use a rolling, bedside cart to stay organized in the middle of the night. The less I have to get up, the easier it is to get back to sleep.

I dove further in to what I keep on my bedside cart in a more in-depth blog post, here.

7. Extra Bassinet Sheets

Middle-of-the-night messes are part of newborn life.

Having extra bassinet sheets ready means I can do a quick change without fully waking myself or the baby. This is especially helpful if you’re dealing with spit-up or reflux.

8. Comfortable Nursing Bras for Sleep

What I wear at night matters more than I expected. Soft, comfortable nursing bras designed for sleep make nighttime feeds easier and less frustrating. I look for styles that allow easy access without complicated clips or adjustments.

Comfort always comes first during overnight feeds. I’ve used the ZUMIY Maternity Nursing Bras for a few weeks now and have really loved the “no bra” feeling compared to regular nursing bras.

9. Easy, Nursing-Friendly Pajamas

Simple, nursing-friendly pajamas make nights smoother. Button-up or easy-access pajamas are practical for frequent feeds and comfortable enough to sleep in. They don’t need to be fancy. They just need to work.

10. Comfortable Air in the Sleep Space

Keeping the air comfortable helps support better rest for everyone.

Using a humidifier can be helpful, especially during colder months or in dry climates. It doesn’t fix sleep, but it can make breathing more comfortable overnight.

Final Thoughts

Newborn sleep is not something you can buy your way into. You don’t need a long checklist of items. You need a safe place for your baby to sleep, a couple of items you find helpful, and a strong cup of coffee in the morning!

Note: This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.