Bringing a baby into the world comes with a whole lot of feelings—excitement, nerves, maybe even a little panic if you’ve looked at a registry checklist lately. There’s just so much stuff. But here’s the real talk: you don’t need most of it.
As someone who’s spent more than enough time researching parenting trends and baby gear hype, I’ve put together a guide to help you sort the practical from the “maybe later” and the “you’ll probably never use it.” Let’s get right into it.
Setting Up the Nursery
A sturdy, safe crib is basically non-negotiable. It’s where your baby will be resting—or, if we’re being honest, it’s where you hope they’ll rest for more than a few hours in a stretch. Make sure it meets current safety standards.
Pair it with a firm mattress that fits snugly (minimizes gaps) to reduce risks linked to SIDS. The tighter the fit, the safer your baby snoozes.
Fitted Crib Sheets
You’ll want at least two or three. Spit-ups, diaper leaks—these things happen at 3 a.m. more often than you’d think. Having extras on hand prevents middle-of-the-night laundry emergencies.
Changing Station
I’ve seen some parents rave about a full-on changing table, but a changing pad placed on a dresser or stable surface can be just as handy. Consider your room setup before spending big on specialized furniture.
Nice-to-Haves for the Nursery
Items to Skip
- Crib Bumpers and Loose Bedding: Pediatric advice is pretty firm on this. These can increase SIDS risk, so let the crib remain bare.
- Pillows and Stuffed Animals: Also better suited for display on a shelf until your baby is older.
Feeding Your Little One
Some parents go for breastfeeding, others use formula, and some do both. Here are the basics that matter most.
Bottle Feeding Essentials
Breastfeeding Essentials
Nice-to-Haves for Feeding
- Bottle Washer: An all-in-one device that automatically washes, sterilizes, dries, and stores bottles, pacifiers, pump parts, sippy cups, and other baby accessories. To learn more about this product, check out Grownsy, one of the most popular products.
- Nursing Pillow: Your arms will appreciate the extra support during marathon feeding sessions.
What You Can Skip
- Bottle Warmers: A bowl of warm water often does the job just fine.
- Sterilizers: Boiling in a pot or using a dishwasher’s sanitizing cycle can achieve similar results.
Diapering
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When it comes to diapering, preparation is everything. In those early weeks, babies go through diapers faster than you’d think, and having the right essentials on hand can make all the difference.
From choosing between cloth or disposable to soothing delicate skin, here are the diapering basics every parent should stock up on.
Diapering Must-Haves
Handy Extras
- Diaper Pail: Helps seal in odors and keeps the smell factor down.
- Portable Changing Pad: Throw it in your diaper bag. Changing your baby in a public restroom (or even in the backseat of your car) becomes more manageable with one of these.
Probably Don’t Need
- Wipe Warmers: Room-temperature wipes are perfectly fine. Babies adapt quickly.
Clothing
Let’s be real: you’ll dress your newborn in the same handful of outfits over and over.
Must-Have Baby Clothing
Good-to-Have
- Mittens: Prevents newborns from scratching their own faces.
- Sweaters or Jackets: For outdoor walks on cooler days.
Skip This Stuff
- Shoes: They’re adorable, but they serve no real purpose until your baby is walking.
- Elaborate Outfits: Frilly dresses, three-piece suits…save them for special occasions or photo ops. Day-to-day life will be a constant cycle of feed, change diaper, nap, repeat.
Bath Time Basics
Bath time with a newborn can feel a little intimidating at first, but the right essentials make all the difference.
Here’s a quick list of bathing must-haves to keep your little one clean, comfy, and smiling.
Bathing Must-Haves
Nice Add-Ons
- Bath Toys: Once your baby grows a bit, rubber duckies and simple toys can make bath time more enjoyable.
- Bath Thermometer: If you’re nervous about water temperature, a thermometer can offer some peace of mind.
Things to Pass On
- Baby Bathrobes: They’re super cute, but you’ll probably end up going straight from towel to diaper and clothes.
On-the-Go Gear
When you’re getting ready to venture out with your new baby, a few key items can make all the difference between chaos and calm.
Out-and-About Musts
Optional But Awesome
- Baby Carrier or Wrap: Wearing your baby can free up your hands and often calms a fussy newborn.
- Stroller Rain Cover: If you live somewhere rainy or get caught in an unexpected drizzle, you’ll be glad you have one.
Could Probably Skip
- Shopping Cart Covers: A quick wipe-down with a disinfectant cloth is typically enough for most parents.
Health and Safety Basics
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Essentials
Nice Extras
- Humidifier: Adding moisture to the air can ward off dry skin and keep your baby more comfortable. Just remember to clean it regularly.
- Baby Nail Clippers or Files: Newborn nails grow surprisingly fast, and you’ll want a tool designed for those tiny fingers.
Not Necessary
- Over-the-Counter Medications: Always check with a pediatrician before giving any meds to your infant.
Babyproofing Your Space
Be sure to protect your little ones! Here are 9 Baby proofing tips for your home: https://t.co/bcdMRvAy23
— Trusted Choice (@Trusted_Choice) February 20, 2014
It might seem a little early to worry about babyproofing, especially when your newborn is still so tiny and snug in your arms. But trust me—time flies. Before you know it, your baby will be rolling over, scooting across the floor, and finding their way into every nook and cranny of your home.
Starting early gives you a chance to gradually make your space safer without the last-minute scramble. A few small changes now can save you a lot of stress (and bumps and bruises) later on.
Key Items
Optional Babyproofing Aids
- Corner and Edge Guards: Sharp corners on coffee tables or low shelves can lead to bumps and bruises.
- Door Knob Covers: Keeps curious hands from wandering into un-babyproofed rooms.
Overkill to Skip
- Excessive Gadgets: Some items are purely gimmicky. Evaluate your home’s layout and your baby’s mobility stage.
Playtime Essentials
With just a few simple items, you can create a safe, engaging space that supports their curiosity and builds early motor skills.
Basic Play Gear
Nice Extras
- Baby Swing or Bouncer: Can help soothe a fussy baby, but always keep an eye on them.
- Activity Gym: Encourages grabbing, rolling, and eventually crawling toward those dangling toys.
What You Don’t Really Need
- Excessive or Ultra-Pricey Toys: Newborns respond well to simple objects with contrasting colors or gentle noises. No need to break the bank here.
Don’t Forget Yourself
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Bringing home a new baby is life-changing—and while your little one will naturally take center stage, it’s just as important to care for the person (or people) doing the caregiving.
Amid the feedings, diaper changes, and sleepless nights, don’t forget: you matter, too. Here are a few parental must-haves to help you feel supported, soothed, and a little more human in those early weeks.
Parental Must-Haves
Wrapping It Up
Setting up for a newborn doesn’t have to mean drowning in baby gear. Yes, there are certain staples that make daily care easier and safer, but a lot of products out there are more about marketing than necessity.
Focus on safety, comfort, and practicality. If something truly makes your life simpler—and you can swing it financially—go for it. Just remember that what your little one really needs most is your love, attention, and a safe space to grow.
In the end, those are the true essentials. Everything else is icing on the cake. And if you ask me, a simpler approach often leads to a more relaxed parent-and-baby dynamic—because less clutter means more room for cuddles, stories, and those sweet, unforgettable firsts.
