NEW MOM GUIDE TO BABY ESSENTIALS: ALL YOU REALLY NEED
Are you a new mom? or do you have a new mom in your life?
When you’re a new mom, the world is suddenly full of baby products!
There are so many options when it comes to feeding your baby, clothing them, and keeping them happy.
It’s enough to make any mother feel overwhelmed. So what should they buy? What can be skipped?
In this blog post, we will go over all the essential items that you really need when it comes to taking care of your baby.
It’s hard not to overspend on our babies, especially as a new mom when that crazy nesting urges kick in.
I got to understand soon enough that in the first few months there was absolutely little or nowhere to wear those outfits to.
You can download a free printable version of this list below.
It is easy to skim through the printable or print it out to refer to it later.
As a new mom, not knowing what one really needs to buy coupled with the numerous choices of cute baby items out there. *I know, I know too many cute baby items* it becomes very easy to get carried away. It doesn’t have to be that way.
I hope this post helps you by creating a list of things you actually need for your newborn! You will find the items that are absolutely essential.
This list is also helpful for people putting together a baby register (I recommend Target and Amazon Baby Registry) or looking for a practical present for a new parent!
Now that I have had a baby, I know exactly what was helpful to have.
NEW MOM GUIDE TO BABY ESSENTIALS
Every subheading and link in this post will send you to that exact product
.I’ve finished the legwork for you so you don’t really have to spend endless hours looking for what you really want.
Now, let’s shop for some baby products!
NEW MOM GUIDE TO BABY TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
CAR SEAT
A car seat is a very necessary baby product.
This is the only way to transport your infant in a car safely .
These seats are designed to protect your infant in the event of a car accident.
They also keep them at an incline so that they do not choke or suffocate if they spit up while sleeping.
A car seat is also an excellent gift for a new mom because it will certainly be put to good use.
SOFT CARRIER
There are so many different types of ways to wear your baby and some are more comfortable for certain people.
Your baby will love being close to you and as they age, they’ll love the front seat view of all the action in front of them.
Soft carriers are awesome because they let you do have your hands free so you can do other things.
I can tell you that for sure a soft carrier will make your life easier as a new mom, there is absolutely no doubt about that.
There are different kinds out there, and i think it is the best option for new borns.
My favorite brand for soft wraps is Moby.
For the front- to – back convertible carrier, the Ergobaby carrier is a fantastic option. It is lightweight and can be used in different carry positions. check it out here.
NEW MOM GUIDE TO DIAPERING ESSENTIALS
DIAPER BAG
A diaper bag is a very useful baby product for new moms.
It’s the perfect place to store all your necessities when you leave the house with your little one in tow
Diaper bags come in a variety of styles and sizes, but just about any bag will do as long as it’s easy to carry.
Your diaper bag should contain all of your baby’s essentials like diapers, wipes , etc.
It’s also a good idea to get one that can be wiped clean since you’ll inevitably need to store dirty diapers and wipes in it at some point.
A diaper bag is a very helpful accessory to have when out and about with your little one.
Not only does it provide you with another place to store essentials like diapers, wipes , snacks, etc., but these bags are also designed in ways that make them convenient for use during various stages of infancy .
There are both backpack-style options which distribute weight evenly across the body so mothers can comfortably carry their heavy loads without getting tired too quickly as well as messenger styles which allow you to easily access all stored items while keeping hands free
Many diaper bags come equipped with added features such as built-in stroller straps less or insulated pockets where bottles can be stored to keep them at the perfect temperature.
my favorite is the Petunia Pickle Bottom Boxy Backpack!
It has loads of space inside, and the front folds down into a changing pad. This is very convenient. Check it out here.
DIAPERS
you will need to buy diapers in newborn sizes for a little while.
Plan to get diapers in bulk it is more economical .
Also, get a package of diaper disposal bags so you can put dirty diapers in the bag and throw it out when outside your home.
Some people want to use cloth diapers but if you are not going to do that then buy disposables at least for the first few months while baby’s skin adjusts to being wet all day long!
I prefer Huggies Snug & Dry because they fit great with no leaks and last through a 12 hour night time sleep. I did try Pampers Swaddlers which were also good, but my daughter had some slight redness from them at one point–they didn’t seem as gentle on her bottom compared to the snug dry ones. In general whatever brand is cheaper where you live will do.
I also used and recommend … these diapers.
Related:10 essential things to do before your baby arrives
WIPES
I feel like wipes go hand in hand with diapers. I like the Huggies sensitive wipes, and I also think these non-toxic wipes are amazing. There are a lot of choices for wipes out there, you could also explore to find out what suits your budget and baby’s skin.
DIAPER CREAM
Diaper cream is a must have for every diaper bag.
This helps keep your baby’s bottom healthy and free of any irritating rashes or sores that could be caused by the diapers rubbing against their skin .
Be sure to choose one that’s designed specifically for infants since they are more sensitive than older children.
Never use any ointment on your baby without checking with the doctor first because it could lead to an allergic reaction or other health problems if not used correctly .
You shouldn’t have too many of these items in your diaper bag, but you need some just in case something goes wrong and a rash appears unexpectedly.
My recommendation is the Sensitive Baby Diaper Cream
Another great option is the Desitin Diaper Rash Cream Rapid Relief .
NEW MOM GUIDE TO BABY BATHING ESSENTIALS
BODY WASH & SHAMPOO
Some babies’ skin will be more sensitive than others, so ensure you get a baby-friendly soap.
Using baby-friendly soap is also important for preventing rashes and irritation during bath time .
If the label says ” tear free” it means that even in cases of accidental eye contact, no damage or pain should be experienced by your child.
In order to use shampoo on your infant make sure it’s tear free to avoid any burning sensation in your little one’s eyes.
I love the honest brand for sensitive skin as well. However, whichever wash and shampoo you decide to use, be sure to look at the ingredients.
Check out the honest wash here: Honest Perfectly Gentle Hypoallergenic Shampoo and Body Wash with Naturally Derived Botanicals.
LOTION
It’s important to keep your baby’s skin moisturized and healthy by using a generous amount of lotion after they get out of the bath. Gentle, natural ingredients like shea butter and coconut oil are best because these products will be less likely to cause allergic reactions or other negative side effects .
Lotion is very helpful in keeping the skin soft and smooth. It can also help prevent rash formation during dry seasons when you’re outside for longer periods of time such as wintertime months. If you choose an all-natural product it should not give your child any rashes or irritation even if their skin is sensitive .
My prefered choice of lotion is the Daily Hydra Lotion it is great for your baby as a newborn and when they get older.
NEW MOM GUIDE TO FEEDING ESSENTIALS
NURSING PILLOW
Nursing pillows are one of the most beneficial baby products for new moms.
They support your little one as you nurse and help keep them in a comfortable, ergonomic position that’s good for their backs .
The Boppy Nursing Pillow is an excellent choice if this is something you’re interested in getting because it has multiple uses like helping to prop up babies who cannot yet sit on their own.
There are also some nursing pillows with added features such as vibrating devices which can be helpful when trying to soothe fussy newborns or those suffering from colic , croup , etc.
Note: A small pillow behind your back will provide additional lumbar support during long sessions of breastfeeding as well as help you avoid back pain after prolonged sitting.
BREAST PUMP& BREAST PUMPING PADS
(if you are pumping)
A breast pump is a must have for any breastfeeding momwho wants to continue providing their child with milk while they are away from them at work or school.
Breast pumping pads will help prevent embarrassing wet spots on your clothing and protect the skin under your breasts from irritation that can be caused by rubbing against fabric .
These innovative products contain an inner layer of cotton which helps soak up moisture without making you feel uncomfortable when wearing them.
In addition, there’s also a waterproof outer cover so leaking should not become a problem even if the pad becomes saturated with fluid during use.
Note: some women prefer using disposable nursing pads while others swear by reusable ones – it all depends on personal preference!
However, make sure whichever product you choose doesn’t contain any potentially harmful chemicals .
One of my favorites breast pump is the medela pump in style. You can get it here.
Another absolutely great option is the wearable willow pump. you can read all about the features here.
If you’re planning to pump or want to build a freezer stash of milk make sure you have a breast pump and breast milk storage bags.
Check out this post about important things you need to know about breast pumping.
I’ve tried a couple of milk storage bags and the Lansinoh Breastmilk Storage Bags are by far my favorite.
BOTTLES &FORMULA
(if you plan to formula feed, or feed your baby breastmilk from a bottle. You will also need a bottle brush and sterilizer if you plan to use them.)
Nipples come in all different shapes, sizes, colors & materials so it’s best for new moms to try a few out before settling on one that they think their child will be most comfortable with .
If your baby is having trouble latching or seems very uncomfortable while breastfeeding , speak with your doctor about various options available.
One possibility could be using bottles which mimic the natural shape of mommy’s breast by being shaped more like an inverted cone instead of a typical teat-style nipple found in many popular brands today!
In general, there are four main types of nipples/teats – standard (or straight), orthodontic (with ridges), slow-flow (slanted inside for a more natural feeding action), and wide-neck which can make it easier to add formula powder without too much spillage.
BURP CLOTHS
If your baby spits up frequently, you will find yourself constantly grabbing for burp cloths to protect their clothing and keep the mess at bay . These versatile cotton fabrics are highly absorbent so they can also be used as a bib , or even folded into diapers during changes to prevent leaks. As an added bonus, many of these products come with cute designs which make them fun & practical gifts!
NEW MOM GUIDE TO BABY SLEEP ESSENTIALS
BABY SLEEP MONITOR
You can either get an Audio Baby Monitor for only listening to your baby – which is more economical, or choose a Digital Video Baby Monitor and spend a little more.
I prefer to hear and see my baby.
We bought this one and it works amazing.
You could also go for the Infant Optics DXR-8 Video Baby Monitor. if you prefer more options.
BASSINET OR CRIB
You need a bassinet or crib. This depends on which sleeping arrangement you have decided on but your baby will need a place to sleep. Check out different options here.
SWADDLES/ BLANKET
I am such a terrible Swaddler? no matter how much i tried with a blanket, I just couldn’t figure it out.
These SwaddleMe swaddle sacks were such a lifesaver. It made swaddling such a breeze.
I also loved the T HALO SleepSack it was simple to use and i liked it because my son had more leg room.
If your baby needs his/her hands up while swaddled, the Love To Dream Swaddle UP is worth a try!
Read: How to lose pregnancy weight in less than a year.
NEW MOM GUIDE TO BABY CLOTHING ESSENTIALS
Baby clothes are cute & having a wardrobe full of adorable outfits is exciting – no one can deny that.
But at the same time you have to keep in mind your child will only be wearing these items for a few months before they outgrow them!
So it’s important not to fall into this trap by filling your shopping cart with too many unnecessary pieces which could end up collecting dust over the years, doing nothing but taking up space until you finally decide to pass them on or throw them away.
If you plan on dressing up your baby in cute outfits, make sure they fit well .
You don’t want anything too tight where it will restrict their movement or breathing – extra loose items could also pose a danger because there’s potential for the fabric to get caught.
Double check that any press studs (snap buttons) are securely fastened and avoid buying clothes with exposed velcro patches as these can irritate sensitive skin when touched repeatedly over time.
FOOTED PAJAMAS
Footed pajamas are a great option for babies because they offer extra warmth around the feet & ankles which is ideal if your little one likes to kick or crawl around on their hands and knees.
This type of clothing usually comes in newborn, 0-month, size options so you can find anything from infant t-shirts with attached mittens (elasticized at the wrists) to pants that have an integral fold over feature at the ankle section.
For an easy way to dress your baby at night, I highly recommend choosing one of these garments because they ensure that their feet are covered while keeping them nice & snug.
What’s more is you don’t have to worry about matching sock colors with the rest of their outfit which can be a real pain!
The great thing about footed pajamas made for infants is that there are no zippers or buttons to deal with – simply pull it up over their arms then use either elasticized leg holes or fold-over cuffs around the ankles depending on what type you get.
Some styles even come in sets so if yours happens to have extra material left, save it for when your child grows out of this size and needs something larger.
My recommended footed pyjamas is the LOVED BABY pyjamas because of the organic soft cottennused in making themmplus they come with mittens built in.
ONESIES
They’re the most important thing for a new baby. You want to have plenty of these on hand because chances are, you’ll be doing laundry every day. You can’t have enough of these, but they are often pricey.
You’ll need onsies that snap at the crotch because babies end up wearing poopy diapers for a while before mastering potty training and you don’t want to be constantly changing clothes in those early days (or even months). The snaps make it much easier when doing changes in the middle of the night or if your baby is sleeping. Onesies with zippers will definitely keep you from losing sleep!
KIMONO TEES
These are my favorite baby clothes by far.
They’re easy to put on, fit perfect for a while (they have snaps at the crotch like onesies), and most importantly they don’t make your life miserable when you need to change diapers in public places because there aren’t any zippers or buttons that end up getting poopy smudges all over them!
You can wear these with leggings or shorts, so they’re good for winter days too.
I love how soft they are and find they keep my babies warm without having an extra layer of clothing underneath.
I’ve bought several different brands of kimono tees including Gerber’s “Baby Gap” brand which is sold exclusively in stores such as Target and Walmart.
I really like Carter’s brand kimono tees and so do my babies!
SOCKS
When you’re out and about it’s important to keep your baby warm. I tried buying a few different brands of socks for my babies, but none worked as well as the Gerber brand which are available in stores like Target and Walmart. They stay on their feet so much better than other brands! It may seem silly to spend extra money on socks when you’re already spending so much, but trust me they are worth it!
– Don’t buy too many clothes in the early months. Babies grow out of them quickly and often spit up or leak through their outfits during feedings. You’ll want to save your money for a few special items that will last longer.
– You’ll want a few different types of baby clothes, but don’t go overboard. It’s not worth spending hundreds on expensive designer brands when you can purchase similar items for much less from stores like Target or Walmart.
BABY MITTENS
I’m not sure why, but babies love to scratch themselves! I found baby mittens are perfect for preventing this. They also help your little one from scratching you when they’re fidgeting in their car seat or stroller.
Again, don’t spend a ton of money on high end designer brands that will only be worn for a short time. Babies are hard on their clothes, so it’s best to spend less for something that will get worn out faster anyway
NEW MOM GUIDE TO BABY HEALTH ESSENTIALS
SALINE SPRAY OR DROPS
I was so thankful to have these drops on hand when my son became congested, especially since he didn’t like it when I used the nasal aspirator.
Babies spit up a lot in their first few months of life and often get breast milk or formula into their noses which can cause irritation.
It’s important to always keep saline spray or drops on hand if you want your baby to feel better!
NASAL ASPIRATOR/ NOSEFRIDA SNOT SUCKER
Oh that first cold, Yikes!!!. usually the first illness a new mom experiences with thier little one but that’s a story for another day.
However, I would say that baby cold is rough, and getting the boogers out of their noses can be something to never look forward to.
That’s why it’s important to clear them with a nasal aspirator. A Nose Frida. works amazing!
HUMIDIFIER
I was glad I had a humidifier as a new one mom. You are never really prepared emotionally for that first cold, and because they are so little, there is only so much you can do to relieve them of the discomfort.
I know they seem like a luxury, but humidifiers are actually pretty useful in the colder months when your baby is more susceptible to breathing problems.
When babies get congested it can be very difficult to keep them comfortable, especially during the night.
A humidifier will help ease their breathing and provide some relief for both of you!
Humidifiers help babies breath easier.
If your baby is congested, it can be so difficult to get them well.
I found that having a humidifier around was great for relieving congestion and helped the whole family sleep better.
If you’re like me and feel overwhelmed by all of the accessories available on Amazon (and let’s face it, they are overwhelming!) then take my advice– invest in this one item because you won’t regret it! It makes life with babies easier when everyone sleeps soundly through the night
THERMOMETER
Try to find a good quality thermometer that will ensure the correct temperature.
The three main types are a Forehead Thermometer (good for quick checks), a Rectal Under The Arm / Tongue Thermometer, and an Ear Thermometer.
This is a great option; Braun Digital Ear Thermometer Suitable for Baby, Infants, Toddlers, and Adults.
you want to be able to monitor a fever to know when you should take your baby to the doctor immediately.
The Frida Baby Windi GAS PASSER
This is a must-have for any parent’s medicine cabinet. It allows you to pass gas in your baby by releasing gentle air into their bottom. You can use it when they’re not feeling well or before and after feedings if they seem gassy! The Windi comes with detailed instructions on how to properly use it. I also recommend watching some YouTube videos on how to use it if you’re not sure. It’s a small investment that goes a long way!
You could also just get a baby grooming set like this , I did this and I found everything in there very useful.
NON -TOXIC LAUNDRY DETERGENT
Luckily, there are a few non-toxic laundry detergents that work well for babies. You’ll want to look into the Tide Free & Gentle and Charlie’s Soap brands which you can find at Target or on Amazon!
It’s important to choose one that is free of dyes, fragrances and chlorine.
Here is my favorite non-toxic laundry detergent.
RECEIVING BLANKET
Receiving blankets come in very handy and i ended up using mine for everything and anything.
Its great as a blanket, towel for cleaning , a cover for nursing etc
PACIFIER & PACIFIER CLIPS
Some parents are strictly against the use of pacifiers. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics states that the use of pacifiers in the first 6 months of life can help reduce the risk of SIDS.
The full article with benefits and complications can be found here. Pacifier Clips also help your little one not lose the pacifier while out and about – saving so much cleaning of dropped pacifiers.
Not all kids will take pacifiers but have them around just incase, pacifiers will certaily save you some sleepless nights.
BOUNCER/ SWING
Sometimes when you’re cooking or getting ready, your little one just needs a place to hang out. You love your baby, but there are times you need your hands free.
A baby Bouncer/Swing/Rock ‘n Play does not have to be expensive but can be so helpful. Many come with cute little toys for the baby to look and reach for and also have a vibrating setting.
Your little one just might love this as a nap location. The Mamaroo Baby Swing worked great for me.
I was gifted the Fisher-Price Snugapuppy Bouncer. and i absolutely loved it.
NEW MOM GUIDE TO NICE TO HAVE BABY ESSENTIALS
TOYS/PLAY YARD
If you have lots of space, don’t feel pressured to get one right away.
We didn’t use our Pack n Play until our little one was about three months old because we had so muc
Along with the play yard remember that most stores sell toys separately so don’t feel pressured into buying one of these all in ones deals.
You can get lots of great items on sale around big holidays like Easter/Christmas/Halloween etc… so stock up once babies arrive because no one wants to buy gifts before seeing what
BABY NAIL CLIPPER
- The small size of the Baby Nail Clipper is perfect for little fingers.
CHANGING PAD & COVER
- You can technically change your baby anywhere, but having a changing station can be extremely beneficial.
- Changing Pad. This Plush Diaper Changing Pad CoverI think it’s the prettiest I’ve seen so far!
ROCKING CHAIR/GLIDER
- A comfy rocking chair is just what you need.
TEETHING TOY
- The RaZbaby RaZ-Berry Silicone Teether is so cute and Sophie The Giraffe is a very popular product with parents.
GRASS DRYING RACK & ACCESSORIES
This Boon Grass Drying Rack is one of our favorites. It’s both adorable and useful. Perfect for drying your child’s bottles. Also useful for hanging bottle covers .
SOUND MACHINE
- White noise will aid in your child’s sleep.
- He or she is used to a mild rumbling of noises when in the womb and finds it soothing.
- If you don’t want to buy a sound machine, you can use free apps on your phone or kindle.
This is my most recommended white noise machine. They’re easy to carry around.
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SOME BABY OPTIONAL ITEMS
1.Stroller: You can decide to get a stroller much later, unless you plan to go for walks immediately.
Look for a travel system that incorporates your car seat and stroller, like as this one.
I adore how our car seat hooks straight into the stroller for a seamless transition from the car to the stroller.
I also like being able to change the baby’s position in the car seat to either facing me or facing out.
2.Diaper Pail: I didn’t have a diaper pail, but if you do decide to use one make sure it’s the Arm & Hammer brand which is available at Walmart.
It has strong odor-fighting power and can hold up to sixty diapers before needing a replacement bag!
Alternative: use a garbage can that has a lid that seals and stick one of these Munchkin Arm and Hammer Nursery Fresheners at the top. These will need to be replaced after a while as well.
Monitors baby’s heart rate and oxygen levels.
The Owlet heart monitor is my favorite.
It monitors your infant’s heart rate, blood flow, respiratory patterns & skin temperature – allowing you to track their vitals in real time!
The monitor can also alert you if there are any changes so it feels like someone is watching over them while they sleep. We have one for our little guy at home now…I love having this peace of mind during those early weeks & months! These products are pricey but totally worth every penny ☺️
Boogie Wipes were invented by a mom who was tired of lugging around bottles of saline water everywhere she went so now you don’t have to! You can find them almost anywhere too – Target, Walgreens, Amazon etc. They’ve got simple ingredients like purified water & grapefruit extract….and NO NASTIES!
I always keep these things right near our changing table because inevitably I’ve got snot on my hands or boogers everywhere.
They’re also great for wiping the little spit-up stains right off of your clothes…I used to use baby wipes but they didn’t work! I don’t know why – maybe because there was no saline water in them? But Boogie Wipes are designed specifically to wipe away all kinds of things like drool, dirt & grime .
5.Bandana Bibs:These are a must at our house to catch the spitups.
You dont need it immediately so you can actually hold on a while longer on the purchase.
Don’t forget to put your bottle warmer on the registry!
It’s one of those unique items that you’re not going to know if you need until you have it and then can never imagine living without.
If space is an issue, however, don’t stress about getting one with a lot of bells & whistles because honestly just boiling water in a pot will do the trick too 🙂 –
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NEW MOM GUIDE TO FUTURE PRODUCTS YOU’LL LOVE
HIGH CHAIR
Look for easy to clean high chair like this one.
BIBS
When your little one is ready to eat solids, typically around 6 months, bibs will be a necessity. These are my two favorites. The Bumkins Waterproof Sleeved Bib and Dex Baby Dura-bib Big Mouth .
JUMPEROO
Bouncers and jumpers are great for playtime in the early days especially when you’re trying to work or take a shower.
MORE BABY TOYS
As your little one grows he/she will become more interested in toys and objects around them.
I hope you are not feeling overwhelmed and this helped you narrow down your list of things you need for your newborn!
The right baby essentials can mean the difference between getting to enjoy motherhood or losing your mind during those first months after having a baby.
Be sure to add your favorite items to your Amazon Baby Registry. Just for creating the registry and ordering/receiving one item off your list, you get a free welcome baby box!
Shop Amazon – Create an Amazon Baby Registry
If you’re a new parent, the world is full of information on what to buy for your tiny bundle.
But how do you know which products are worth it and which ones aren’t?
We’ve rounded up our favorite newborn essentials that will make life just a little bit easier for parents-to-be.
And if there’s anything we missed, please leave us a comment at the bottom!
Dont forget to share this post with your friends…
