Getting ready for a new baby is an emotional roller coaster, isn’t it, Mama? You want to provide the best for your baby, but you feel so overwhelmed by all of the baby gear and advice out there!
I know how that goes; I’ve been there and have a lot of advice for new moms. That’s why I’ve put together a list of my top recommended baby essentials.
Let me share with you everything I used that first year, like the baby items I ended every day versus ones you can do without, but they’re nice to have.
This list cuts through the endless options so that you can focus on what really matters – your baby’s arrival and spending time with your new little bundle of joy. Let’s get started!
Key Takeaways
Before we get into the details, remember that each baby is unique. What worked for me may not work for you.
But here’s some advice I think every mom can agree on.
- Prioritize Comfort and Safety: Your baby’s comfort and safety should always come first. Choose products that support them to ensure your little one is always cozy and secure.
- Less is More: Don’t get overwhelmed by the vast array of baby products available. Get the basics and get more as you need them; otherwise, the house will quickly fill up, and stuff will go unused!
- Quality Over Quantity: Invest in high-quality baby items that are durable and safe for your new baby. Sometimes, spending a little more means you get something reliable.
- Trust Your Instincts: While it’s good to seek advice from other parents or experts, remember that your instincts about what’s best for your baby are what’s important.
- Enjoy the Journey: The first year is fleeting, and while having the right products is important, your love and attention are what your baby needs the most.
Now, let’s walk through this list of newborn baby essentials to prepare for the arrival of your little bundle of joy!
Nursery Furniture
Creating the perfect nursery for your little one is such a special journey.
While it’s tempting to focus on picking out paint colors, adorable decals, and cozy bedding, it’s good to remember that safety and comfort are truly what make the nursery a haven for your baby.
The furniture you pick should all have a purpose to make things easier for getting your child up and down every day as well as having uses for down the road.
For instance, I didn’t get one of those two-in-one beds with the diaper table because I knew that we’d only need the diaper table for a year, and then it would be open storage space for grabby hands.
I went with a regular crib and had a padded diaper changing station on a dresser (with straps!) so that I could have all the creams and such in closed drawers away from naughty toddler hands.
But let’s get more into what things you definitely need and what you might want:
Must-Haves
Now, all you parents-to-be, here are my absolute must-haves for your nursery. Believe it or not, a nursery requires just a few basic pieces to welcome your new baby home:
- Crib
- Crib mattress
- Dresser w/ changing station
- Soft Lighting
- Rocking chair or glider
- Small toy storage bin (I used an ottoman for bedtime books)
Everything else is optional and can be tailored to your space, budget, and style.
Nice-To-Haves
Now, for those extra touches that can make your nursery feel even more special and personalized, here are things some mothers get for their children:
- Changing table
- Bassinet
- Area rug
- Convertible crib
Safety
As moms, we just can’t wait for those big milestones—sitting up, crawling, and walking. Oh, the joy of seeing your little one start exploring the world!
But with their curiosity comes a new set of worries for you, Mama. If you still need to baby-proof your home, now is definitely the time.
Must-Haves
Here are my recommendations that you should have 1000% covered before the first few weeks your baby comes home:
- Baby gates
- Cabinet latches/magnetic locks
- Bath thermometer
- Outlet covers
- Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
- Safety plugs for outlets in use
- Window blind cord wraps
- Furniture anchors
- Window guards
- Toilet locks
Do Not Use Items
Now, I’m sure you’re expecting Nice to Haves here, but instead, I wanted to focus on some no-no baby products that pediatricians say aren’t good to have around your baby:
- Crib bumper pads (choking hazard)
- Infant loungers/sleep positioners/in-bed sleepers (so kids can co-sleep or sleep on the floor; don’t co-sleep in bed together!!)
- Neck floaties
- Weighted baby blankets/crib bedding
- Drop-side cribs
- Swaddles
- Bumbo seats
- Soft carriers/sling wraps (if you haven’t taken a proper class, it’s dangerous if used incorrectly)
- Used/expired car seats
- Wipe warmer (overheated=burns!)
Clothes
I know dressing your baby sounds like so much fun! You can’t wait for those cute little jeans and fancy little dresses.
But I found myself reaching for the soft, practical items over those filly little dresses and cute little tights nearly every time, Mama!
So let me tell you the basics for clothes and what else could be nice to have on hand.
Must-Haves
Here are my go-to baby essentials for clothing:
- Onesies
- Sleep sacks with cool PJs (sacks are for sleep safety, but they can get warm)
- Rompers
- Pants
- Shirts (half long sleeve and short sleeve, depending on the season_
- Socks
- Light jackets
These pieces made my baby essential list because they are comfortable, easy to use, and gentle on your baby’s skin.
I had 8-10 of each of these so that I could get enough for a week originally. However, with spit-ups and diaper blowouts, I still had to wash laundry every four days or so to make sure we didn’t run out.
Nice-To-Haves
I’m usually pretty practical, but I do have to admit – I changed my firstborn frequently during the day that first month!
There are just so many clothes, and they grow out of them so fast. I wanted to make sure she wore everything at least once.
So, if you want to have fun with it, here are a few more things you can add to your baby gear list:
- Dresses
- Seasonal outfits
- Photo-ready outfits
- Anything white (white clothes didn’t last well for meal times here!)
Baby clothes are so cute, Mama, but remember not to go overboard. After that initial month, my babies lived in onesies and rompers simply because they were quick, easy, and comfortable.
Some babies don’t like to be dressed up because of fabrics or fit, so pay attention to what seems comfortable to them.
Shoes/Accessories
I didn’t use baby shoes for my baby’s first few months. I know – it was hard to resist all those little Nikes!
But I only bought shoes once my girls were walking. The accessories were easy little things to put on them that just perked us all up to look at, LOL.
Must-Haves
When it comes to dressing those tiny feet, it’s all about comfort and warmth – with just a dash of cuteness.
Here’s my go-to list of shoes and accessories:
- Booties
- Soft-sole shoes
- Comfortable headbands
- Hair clips
- Warm beanies
- Sun hats
- Sunglasses
Remember to avoid any accessories that have small parts or can be easily pulled off by your baby.
Nice-To-Haves
These items aren’t essentials, but they sure do add a special touch for photos, outings, and cuddle sessions.
- Newborn baby mittens
- Decorative hairbands and bow ties
- Pacifiers/pacifier clips (the animal pacifiers are hard to resist!)
- Teething necklaces
Accessories are a fun way to personalize your baby’s outfit. Just remember, comfort and safety first!
Diapers
It is so overwhelming to try to pick out what you need for diaper changes!
There are so many products on the market to make the whole diapering process easier for you and your baby.
But let me narrow things down for you to get your nursery and diaper bag prepped:
Must-Haves
Here’s the bare minimum baby essentials you need for a clean tooshie:
- Disposable diapers or cloth diapers (I used a mix of both between being home and out and about)
- Wipes and washcloths
- Diaper rash cream
- Changing pad with changeable covers (wahsable=sanitary!)
- Diaper bag (I literally used an old backpack!)
These basics will ensure that you’re fully prepared for all diaper changes, making those moments as smooth and comfortable for your baby as possible.
Nice-To-Haves
Now, if you want to make those changes more comfortable and convenient, here are some extras that I found helpful:
- Fancy diaper bag/diaper caddy
- Diaper pail
- Disposable diaper bags
With the right supplies, diaper changing can become a smooth, manageable part of your daily routine with your little one.
Bath/Toiletries
Babies need different toiletries at different stages of their development, so choosing the right bath products can be even more overwhelming!
It’s okay, though; I’ve got you covered with my list of newborn bath essentials.
Must-Haves
Here are the essentials for keeping your baby clean and happy during bath time:
- Baby bathtub (for the sink or bath)
- Tear-free body wash & shampoo
- Baby lotion
- Soft washcloths
- Hooded, soft towel
- Baby brush or comb (use detangler items when they have more hair)
- Nail trimmers
- Head thermometer
Nice-To-Haves
Bath time was a great opportunity for me to bond with my baby, and there are many products on the market to help make it even more enjoyable.
Here are a few things we loved to use during our bath routine:
- Bath kneeler & elbow rest
- Bath toys with storage/organizer
- Bath books
- Tub markers/paint
- Bubble bath for sensitive skin
I also used a small electric heater to warm the room before bathing the baby, just to make things a little more comfortable for her.
Playtime/Toys
I put a lot of thought into the baby toys I bought because babies learn through playing and exploring their environment.
We got gifted so many and were soon overrun by toys- and still are at times!
For infants, you really don’t need much to get started, and I recommend telling people to ask first because too much is a problem for Mama.
Must-Haves
Here are the baby essentials for playtime and development:
- Rattles
- Teething toys
- Musical toys
- Picture books
- Shape sorters
- Pull and push toys
- Stuffed Animal
- Building blocks
I chose these toys because they are not only fun but will also help your baby meet the developmental milestones they need to make that first year.
Nice-To-Haves
As your baby becomes mobile, they will need more diverse toys to keep them entertained and stimulated.
Here are some additional items that can add a little variety to playtime:
- Portable play yard
- Puzzle mats/activity mats
- Light-up toys
- Soft blocks
- Building blocks
- Sensory balls
- Electronic educational toys
- Swing & slide set
- Walk-behind toys
- Activity/water table
- Cars or trains
- Learning toys (letters, numbers, colors)
I’ve learned that it is very easy to go overboard with toys. Start simple, and buy as they can do more and get interested in more.
Nursing/Feeding
You will spend a good amount of your time feeding your baby, and many of these items will be for you, Mama, if you’re breastfeeding.
So, whether you nurse, formula feed, or use a blend of both, the right equipment can make the process a whole lot easier and more enjoyable.
Must-Haves
Here’s my list of essential feeding supplies:
- Breast pump
- Nursing pads & bras
- Nipple cream
- Bottles w/ nipples
- Burp cloths
- Formula
- Bottle brush
- Baby bibs
- Small, soft baby spoons & forks
- Adjustable feeding chair/baby seats
There are many products to choose from when it comes to feeding your baby. I found it was easiest to stick to the basics.
Nice-To-Haves
While those are the essentials, a few extra baby items can make feeding even cozier and more convenient for both you and your baby:
- Formula dispenser
- Nursing cover
- Bottle sterilizer
- Bottle warmer
- Nursing pillow
- Milk storage bags
- Bottle washer (dishwasher)
- Bottle drying rack
Remember, these little extras are not essential but can help make mealtime a more nurturing bonding experience for you and your precious little one.
Sleepy Time
The best thing you can do early on is to establish a sleep/bedtime routine for your baby. Trust me, it’ll help your baby’s emotional development – and it will keep you sane.
Must-Haves
Here are the things that made bedtime so much easier in my house:
- Baby monitor
- Sleep sack
- Pacifier
These are my absolute baby must-haves for bedtime. We don’t go to bed without them!
Nice-To-Haves
Here are a few extra items to help make bedtime more comfortable for your little one and yourself:
- White noise machine (sound machine)
- Bluetooth speaker w/ playlist (we still use it for nap time)
- Mobile
- Blackout curtains
- Humidifier
With the right sleep essentials, you can help create a safe, peaceful sleep environment for your baby.
Leaving The House
I’m not going to lie; leaving the house can be hard! There is so much to pack and remember!
So here is a quick list of stuff you might need loaded into the car before you head out with your baby:
Must-Haves
Here’s what you’ll need to bring when taking your baby out and about:
- Infant car seat
- Diaper bag
- Changing pad
- Baby carrier or stroller
- Bottles & formula/breast milk
- Hand sanitizer
- Baby Wipes
- Pacifier w/ clip
- Toys
- Extra clothes & sun hat/sunglasses
- Burp cloths & bibs
- Blanket
- Sippy cup
- Snacks & water for baby
- Snacks & water for you
- First-Aid Kit
Nice-To-Haves
Try to think through what you are doing; it’s easy to overlook things that will keep your baby entertained. I used to bring extra snacks, little books, and tiny baby toys to keep the girls busy.
Some extras that can make your outings smoother and more enjoyable:
- Portable playpen or travel bed
- Insulated bottle cooler/bottle warmer
- Disposable diaper bags
- Clip-on fan for stroller
- Travel high chair
It may seem like a lot of baby gear to carry, but having the right baby essentials when out and about can make or break your baby’s happiness.
Plus, it’s always better to be over-prepared than under-prepared.
FAQs
What are the typical baby essentials I need?
All the essentials boil down to items for feeding, sleeping, changing, and transporting your baby.
This includes bottles, a crib or bassinet, diapers, wipes, diaper cream, a baby carrier or stroller, and clothing for different weather conditions.
Each family’s needs may vary slightly, but starting with these basics will cover the main aspects of caring for your newborn.
What should I add to my baby list?
Apart from the baby essentials like a crib, changing table, diapers, and clothes, you’ll also need an adjustable high chair, convertible car seat, and developmental toys.
Remember to consider your comfort and convenience as well, with items like a nursing pillow, a good-quality diaper bag, and comfortable baby carriers that strap on well.
What does a newborn baby need?
A newborn baby’s needs are quite simple. They need a safe place to sleep, proper nutrition, safe environments, and basic clothing to keep them warm and comfortable.
You’ve got to make sure to have diapers, diaper creams, sleep sacks, enough clothes for a week, bibs, and more on my list above to get through those first few weeks with ease.
What do I need as a mom taking care of a baby?
Taking care of a baby is both joyful and challenging. As a mom, your needs are just as important as your baby’s.
Essential items might include a comfortable nursing bra, breastfeeding pads to prevent leaks, a nourishing cream for sore nipples, and a supportive pillow to make feeding times easier.
Investing in a quality water bottle is a good idea because staying hydrated is important, especially if you’re breastfeeding.
Self-care items, such as a soothing skincare routine or a journal, can help you unwind and reflect.
And lastly, don’t underestimate the power of a good book or a streaming service subscription for those moments when you need a little escape.
My Thoughts
I remember feeling pressured to have everything ready and perfect before my first baby arrived!
But if there’s one piece of advice I could share with new parents, it’s this: don’t stress about getting every single item right away.
Not everything needs to be bought right away, and quite frankly, some purchases can wait until you’re sure they’re necessary.
You’ll learn what your baby prefers as they grow- and having just the essentials and less stuff to clutter the house is what you need.
The truth is, your baby’s most important needs are your love, care, and attention. Everything else can be figured out with time.
So get these baby essentials while preparing for your baby’s arrival, and get the rest as you need them.
