Yesterday Marin turned 5 weeks old. It’s kind of amazing how much has happened in that amount of time. I won’t get into the postpartum stuff, saving it for another post, but there are so many changes you and the baby go through in the first few weeks. I remember sitting in the hospital not long after I delivered Marin and thinking, I have no idea how to take care of a baby. And I wasn’t really freaking out. But in that moment I thought, wow I should really start to read some stuff, haha. Well, spoiler alert, I didn’t read anything because I was exhausted and delirious and who has any time with a newborn?
The truth is, you just figure this out as you go. And if there is one piece of advice I can give, it’s that there is no need to freak out. Having a baby is a lot, physically and emotionally, but you can do it, and the more you can stay calm and confident in your abilities, the better off you will be (easier said than done I know). Again I’ll touch on postpartum in another post, but I also want to reiterate that your own care is JUST as important as the baby’s. Please prioritize your own recovery and mental health, and get help if you need it.
And the last thing I’ll add, nobody is a parenting expert. You don’t have to be perfect. Lots of people will have opinions and “rules” for how you should do certain things, but nobody knows what’s best for you, your family and your baby except you. What I am sharing in this post is what has worked for us, but you will quickly realize that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to parenting. I’m here to tell you, you’ve got this.
Here are the newborn baby essentials that have gotten us through the last few weeks. While these are our must-haves, it may be different for your baby. I’ve also answered some of your most frequently asked questions at the bottom of this post. If you have any additional newborn baby product favorites or other things you found helpful, feel free to add them in the comments for others to read. You can also find my baby registry here.
Newborn Baby Essentials
Sleeping
I figured I’d put sleeping essentials first because let’s be real, you don’t get much of it in the beginning. Sleep deprivation is ROUGH but it’s temporary. For more detailed answers about sleep questions see the bottom of this post.
Bassinet
I LOVE our Design Dua bassinet (get 10% off w/ code JESSANNKIRBY). It’s so easy to transport around the house (both the bottom rocker and Moses basket) and was so helpful in helping ease the transition from co-sleeping to crib. I have a bundle that came with a changing basket and pad. I use Pehr changing pad covers with it.
Snuggle Me Organic
Let me preface this by saying this is not recommended for sleep. I am not a doctor and I am not giving any advice on what to do in terms of co-sleeping, etc. just sharing what has worked for us. Please do your own research and make decisions you are comfortable with. This is a helpful article from Kelly Mom. All of that said, we used our Snuggle Me Organic in bed with us for the first 3 weeks and it was the only way either of us get any sleep (more on this below). It’s also great for setting her down with us on the couch, etc. She loves being in it.
Baby Monitor
My friend recommended this monitor and it’s awesome. Super easy to set up and use, no fancy bells and whistles and it doesn’t hook up to your phone or anything but we really don’t need that. The monitor can go anywhere and it’s not connected to WIFI so it can’t be hacked in any way.
Humidifier
I keep this humidifier running in Marin’s room to help with dryness, especially right now when the heat is on. It helps with her stuffy nose. We also have this humidifier running in our room.
Noise Machine
We have two noise machines, one in our bedroom and one in the nursery. If you don’t need a night light and just want white noise this one is perfect. If you want a night light and options for different types of noise this one is great.
Halo Sleepsack & LOVE TO DREAM SWADDLE
We started out with the halo sleepsack swaddle and then transitioned to the Love to Dream Swaddle (which honestly I think she likes better and we immediately started getting longer sleep stretches). Combined with following the Moms On Call sleep schedule and guidelines definitely helped us get longer stretches of sleep at night (we started this at 4 weeks). See below for more on this.
Diapering
Diapers create a lot of waste, a lot. I was really hoping to find a good solution to reducing that as much as possible but also that was realistic in practice. Dyper was the answer for me.
Bamboo Diapers (get 25% off w/ this link)
I was so beyond excited to discover Dyper. We actually tried a few brands before Dyper and none were as good. They’re made from responsibly sourced bamboo, have zero nasty stuff, AND they are compostable. They’re incredibly soft too. The sign-up and delivery is super easy and the service is very affordable. Composting is optional and it’s an extra $30/month for the service (the way I see it, it costs less than one night of eating out a month, so we added that to our subscription).
Water Wipes
We tried a few different wipes and these were the best for sensitive newborn baby skin. You really don’t need anything heavy duty for a wipe when they’re super young because they’re only eating breastmilk or formula. I recommend getting a wipe dispenser because it makes diaper changing a lot easier.
Diaper RASH Cream
I use this organic diaper rash cream from this little set and it’s great.
Diaper Bag
I LOVE my MZ Wallace tote with this organizer. It fits everything I need and makes it easy to find things. And it’s washable.
Clothes
I am so glad I didnt go crazy buying baby outfits because the only thing Marin has worn the last month is footie onesies. Between endless diaper changes, spit up, blowouts, etc. having a bunch of easy zip up onesies on hand is so helpful. I recommend getting at least enough for 2x/day so 14 total). Of course time of year is a factor, shes a winter baby so long sleeve, footie pajamas work best right now.
Footie Onesies (with mitts)
For the first few weeks footie onesies with mitts were essential because her nails were sharp and long and no way was I going to attempt to cut them. For onesies I love Burts Bees, MORI, and Magnetic Me. See below for sizing info.
Swaddles
We started with the Halo sleepsack and then moved to the Love to Dream Swaddle Up. I think the Love to Dream is ultimately what got us the longer stretches but we also started using it at around 7 weeks so it could have just been age too.
Fleece Booties
I’m just gonna go ahead and say don’t bother with baby socks. They don’t stay on and you really don’t need them if you have footie onesies and these booties.
Fleece Bunting
We’ve been taking Marin for walks since she was a few days old. She loves being outside and getting fresh air. A fleece bunting for a winter baby is essential. We have this for the car seat which is great because she only needs a light layer underneath.
Car Seat Wrap/Blanket
This thing is so great because she only needs a light layer underneath and it keeps her cozy but I can easily unwrap it if she’s too warm.
Feeding
I decided pretty early on I did not want to breastfeed. I found pumping to be easier for me (once I got a wireless pump) so I’ve been exclusively pumping. Here are my favorite things for newborn feeding and pumping.
Wireless Breast Pump
Without the Elvie I would not still be pumping (more on that below). It’s not perfect but it gets the job done, and I HATED being chained to the Spectra. That said, the Spectra and some others are covered by insurance so if you don’t want to spend the money, the Spectra works totally fine. I just love the freedom and flexibility I have with a wireless pump. The new Willow looks good too but I have not tried it.
Comotomo Bottles
These are hands down the best bottles we tried and they’re known for being great at making it easy to switch between bottle and breast. I’m exclusively pumping so Marin only gets bottles but the newborn slow flow nipple on these is perfect.
Drying Rack
This is great for bottles and for my breast pump parts.
Burp Cloths (Swaddle Blankets)
I actually use swaddles as burp cloths because I think it’s just easier and they can be light blankets too. I probably have about 10 which seems like a lot but you go through them quickly. My favorites are Pehr and Tiny Twinkle.
Pacifiers
For whatever reason Marin only likes these pacifiers.
Baby Gear
SWIVEL RECLINER CHAIR
For everyone that asked what was my big ticket item I can’t live without, this chair is it (it also happens to be on major sale right now). We have small rocker in the nursery and quickly realized it was not comfortable enough to be sitting in for every feeding. You find yourself sitting A LOT and having a comfortable chair is SO important, especially for the middle of the night. I got the basketweave slub ash color and it’s a nice neutral that also won’t get destroyed in our living room.
ARTIPOPPE
I resisted buying the Artipoppe because of the price but after trying two other carriers and just not loving them I bit the bullet and bought this one. It was worth it.
Jogging Stroller and Travel Stroller
The stroller you want is really going to depend on where you live and your lifestyle. I’ve heard from several moms that live in cities and LOVE the Uppababy Minu because it’s so portable, lightweight and easy to maneuver. We also have the Bumbleride Indie because we live on a trail system and it is amazing for that, but not super travel friendly.
Car Seat
Absolutely love our car seat and so does Marin. She passes out the second we put her in it.
Baby Bjorn Bouncer
This is a great thing to have to put the baby down and it has multiple settings so you can put it low when the baby is really little. Marin loves it and it’s super lightweight and portable.
Play Mat
We love the Lovevery Mat because it’s super soft for tummy time and easy to throw in the wash.
Bathing
Baby Bathtub
This little tub makes bath time so much easier and lasts through toddler age.
Baby Lotion
I rarely use soap because her skin is so sensitive and she doesn’t really need it but this is what I use when I do. I use Farmaesthetics Lavender Milk for lotion.
Baby Brush (cradle cap set)
Love this set from Fridababy. Definitely helps with dry scalp and cradle cap.
Hooded towels and soft washcloths
I basically watched the bathing video from Moms on Call and follow what they say to do. I love the Pehr hooded towels and these are technically burp clothes but they’re super soft and the perfect size for bath time.
Newborn Q&A
What did you take to the hospital?
First let me say, if your hospital offers a tour I recommend doing it. We did and it was super helpful knowing where to park, what to do, where to go when you are actually in labor, and what we actually need/didn’t need for the hospital. I didn’t really bring much to the hospital and honestly we didn’t need much. I brought two onesies (newborn and 0-3 month, I don’t even remember which one we put her in) and a hat for her to go home in. She was in swaddles and shirts from the hospital while we were there and we just used their diapers and wipes.
What are your pumping and bottle essentials? Any breastfeeding pillow recommendations?
To keep it brief, I hated breastfeeding. So I decided not to. I didn’t mind pumping and I loved that Craig could really help in terms of feeding so I decided to do that. I am exclusively pumping and have been for several weeks. Your insurance will cover the Spectra, which works perfectly fine, but I was losing my mind having to sit and pump in one place every several hours so I bought the Elvie. I’m not going to say it’s perfect but it works for me and I feel like I have so much more freedom.
I pump 6x/day but I’m going to start pumping 7 just to try and get some extra supply so I can start freezing more. My supply has been good and consistent so far but it’s only been 5 weeks. I try to eat lots of oats, healthy food and drink tons of water. As I mentioned above we love the Comotomo bottles and I have both the Boppy nursing pillow (shower gift).
What are your sleeping essentials and any recommendations for getting longer stretches at night?
In the first few weeks you probably aren’t going to get much sleep. Newborn babies have tiny stomachs and need to eat every few hours. We co-slept with the Snuggle Me for the first 3-4 weeks (I know this is not recommended I’m just being honest about what we did and what worked for us). Craig would feed the baby while I pumped. Slowly we transitioned from co-sleeping in the bed, to having her in the bassinet in our room and finally to her crib in the nursery (throughout that time we would also put her down to sleep in different places- crib, bassinet, stroller, etc). At 4 weeks we started sleep training following the schedule from the Moms on Call app.
What sizes did you get (newborns vs 0-3 months)?
I got mostly 0-3 months sizing which fit Marin pretty early on, some were a little big but every brand is totally different. That said she was 8 pounds at birth, so if your baby is smaller, newborn will probably fit for a longer period of time. She probably wore newborn for the first week and a half.
How often do you bathe Marin?
For the first few weeks she only got a handful of baths. You can’t give an actual bath until the umbilical cord falls off which took about 10 days. Since we started following the Moms on Call schedule (at 4 weeks) we do a bath every night. She loves it and it has become a nice little routine before bedtime. See above for our bathing essentials.
How did you decide on your bassinet/thoughts on the Snoo?
I chose our bassinet based mainly on how it looks, and because I wanted something we would use when we no longer needed it as a bassinet. It has worked out great and I love that we can pick her up in the basket and move her around the house as needed.Most people I know that have it love the Snoo. I personally didn’t want to spend the money and wanted something smaller and more portable, but they do have a rental program so you can always try that too.
How did you organize your diaper changing station and what are your must-haves?
We actually have two diaper changing stations, one upstairs in the nursery and one in the basement. Upstairs I have the Design Dua basket and downstairs I have this one from Pottery Barn (I bought a few of their covers too). I use this wipe dispenser and these organizing cubes from Amazon are great for diapers, wipes, onesies etc.
*** I’m doing a little giveaway for you guys with Dyper, Comotomo and Design Dua. Enter to win a free month of diapers, a Comotomo bottle set and a Design Dua bassinet by commenting below with your number one must-have baby item***
Disclosure: if you buy something through the links on this blog, we may earn an affiliate commission. We only feature products we would personally recommend. Thank you for your support.
As a mom-to-be of twins, my must have baby item was the UppaBaby Vista.
My number one baby item is an organic moby wrap. I loved having the carrier with my first (especially the first month) and now with another on the way I plan on using it a lot as well.
The number one new baby essential was actually something for myself, a coffee subscription, I’m a bit of a coffee snob and enjoy a really good cup of coffee. There was seriously nothing better than coffee delivered to my house every other week specifically picked for me based on my preferences. I didn’t leave the house much (and didn’t really have the energy to look “presentable” for the real world) so getting specialty coffee delivered was such a nice treat for myself. Also the caffeine helped with my lack of sleep.
Baby Bjorne Carrier free! Keep them
Close and hands free.
Baby essential besides sleep?!? Diapers and patience!
My number one baby essential is reflux meds. Ha! But in all seriousness, a comfy swing for baby to hang out in is so great.
Boppy nursing pillow, milk cow burp cloths, h&m conscious onesies, hatch night light, baby brezza for making formula/feedings easier!
I’m due in June, so this post is super helpful for me as I put a registry together! Lots of people have told me that a baby carrier is a must-have! Definitely looking into Baby Bjorn 🙂
Humidifier and plants. AIR QUALITY ??
Love the post! Super helpful and definitely ran and ordered from Dyper the minute you recommended. It’s nice to know every product you’ve ever recommended I’ve had a positive experience with. You’re a gem!
You really covered everything. Aqua photo was a must for me and baby. I put it on her bum before diaper cream and on her cheeks and chin if feeling dry and to protect her skin when she is drooling. ?
Swaddle blankets are a game changer!! ???? I love how easy they make it!
The Ollie swaddle! Its snug and the Velcro makes wrapping baby very easy!! It’s been a game changer!!
I am pregnant and expecting my first, so I don’t yet know what my number one must-have item will be, but I’m guessing it will be the snuggle me or dock-a-tot!
Thanks for sharing!! Our friends gifted us the mamaroo swing by 4moms. It’s been a lifesaver when he’s fussy and I just need to set him down to eat, clean, work, bathroom break, etc. We have to seriously get a strong bounce going to settle him in our arms so he loves the highest speed on this thing. Passes right out most of the time or is just content to hang and watch us. It has white noise options too but just the sound of the soft motor/movement is usually enough for him. Downside: it’s not super portable, kind of a pain to move from room to room and plug in but it’s doable and worth it. It also maxes out at 25lbs so can’t use for a toddler but we will definitely save for potential second kid (if we’re brave enough…). https://www.target.com/p/4moms-mamaroo-4-bluetooth-enabled-high-tech-baby-swing-classic/-/A-52358322?preselect=52338571#lnk=sametab
YES! A swing was a lifesaver for us too!
We had a baby girl on leap day and have already learned so much. I thought for sure swaddles would be a lifesaver and bought them in three different sizes. Go figure Ellie hates having her arms down, and we recently switched to a sleep sack that was given to us as a gift. It has made a huge difference, and she’s now sleeping 4-5 hour stretches every night. We’ll take it!
Sleep essentials: sound machine and Merlin’s Magic Sleepsuit. My son loved this from 3m until he started rolling over around 6m. Expecting my second, so this was a helpful refresh!
Great giveaway! I love this – https://www.designdua.com/collections/accessories/products/moses-pod-stand-bundle
I am the first in my close friend group to have a baby and it was a huge adjustment for my husband and me. We just imagined life would be somewhat different (just a small companion and earlier bedtimes ?) little did we think about schedules and logistics on bring our baby everywhere! We learned quickly that nice relaxing moments at home help us recharge and less outings a week make them all that special. Now it is hilarious to think back on those first months after my daughters birth. I am so proud of my strength! My number one product is a great glider chair. Late night feeding (either BF or bottle) are a lot more comfortable in a comfy chair!
Little muslin burp cloths were essential for easy wipe up of milk, spit up, drool etc. Always ended up using them and frequently wished I had one in reach.
We don’t have a baby yet, as we are just starting the surrogacy process…but I would think loving parent(s) has to be #1. If we are talking an actual “thing”, gotta go for that Design Dua bassinet! So pretty ?
Our snuggle me organic was our life saver as well! Couldn’t get Hudson to sleep in anything else!
Full-zip onesies are a life-saver for middle-of-the-night changes and blowouts in the bleary eyed newborn phase!
My first born loved the snuggleme, but my second baby (also 5 weeks) doesn’t like to be put down! I find the most crucial item for me is the solly baby wrap. It’s great for newborns (super soft and womb like) and it’s been helpful for naps while I’m busy chasing my toddler around. I’m able to wear him for walks, while I prepare dinner and during the dreaded witching hour. It’s helped my sanity tremendously!
Baby Bjorn Bouncer, Snuggle Me, and Aden and Anais swaddles. Loved this post!
The SnuggleMe is a must-have. We also used it for co-sleeping the first few days because Baby wouldn’t sleep in the bassinet. He loves it now for lounging and it gives us a place to safely put him down when we need to.
I’m newly pregnant, and have loved following your journey! I’m currently shopping for….everything….but I think my first big decision will be the stroller. I can’t wait for walks outside with the little one :).
My must have baby item has been gerber cloth diapers for burping our baby!! have them all over the house and they are just such a life saver!
Here to learn since I’m due in about 6 weeks, so thank you for all the wisdom (and realness as always). The one thing we knew we absolutely needed was a car seat, the Nuna Pipa was the very first thing we got – glad to hear you are all liking it!
The Summer Infant Swaddleme was our number one! Strong velcro that kept him cozy once he could bust out of a blanket swaddle job at around 2 weeks.
I second the Dohm sound machine, I’m due in August and will be getting one for the new baby because my now-4-yo still uses it every night! Also gotta give a shout out to the Oxo Tot roll-up silicone bibs for later down the road. They look over the top but catch everything that would end up on their clothes and the floor… and once they wise up to it, they can help themselves from their own leftovers 😀
I’d love to hear what you use as a diaper bag! I’m in the market for a good one!
Hi!
I’m 29 weeks right now with my first so still trying to figure it out! We live in Newport too and are having a baby girl. So far I’m most excited about some items you mentioned that I bought the nuna car seat and halo swaddles! Can’t wait to read about postpartum, it’s what I’m most worried about! More worried about that then the actual labor/birth.
Congrats to you and Craig, she’s a doll. I have a 3 1/2 year old and am pregnant with #2, due in June. We never slept with my first and ended up cosleeping for a year (while many don’t ‘recommend’ it, quite frankly many do). I also breast fed her til she was 3 so all my thoughts on babies revolve around my lack of sleep and always constant breastfeeding. My must have? A netflix subscription, supportive family, and snacks. My God so many snacks. I think we kept a jar of granola and trail mix in every room that I breastfed in (so….all the rooms). Mom-ing a newborn can be terrifying, but it’s also such a cherished time. I’m excited to do it again with less fear this time. Also, just signed up for the first month of dyper per your recommendation. But this time around we’re hoping to actually use a bassinet, which we don’t have 🙂
Congratulations!! YES TO THE SNUGGLE ME! My baby is 7 months now and she only slept in the Snuggle Me until she was 3 months. We bought so many bassinets and she would wake up as soon as we put her down except in the Snuggle Me. We transitioned her to the Dock a Tot around 4 months and she still uses it at night. Do whatever works for you!
I know it seems silly and not necessarily considered an “item” so much as a piece of furniture, but a having a changing table downstairs in our living space, separate from the bedroom was a game changer! We thought we could just use the pack n play as a makeshift changing table and our backs were aching by the end of day 1. It’s so worth it! And you will continue to use it forever(as will everyone will comes over with kids of all ages).
I’m only 4.5 months along but I do love my Zella Maternity leggings w/pockets. I bought them on sale and I regret not buying more. My stomach fits so nice and snug now that I’m not trying to squeeze into my regular skinny jeans!
I think nipple balm is going to be my number one essential because I really want to commit to breastfeeding (fingers crossed). But from your list I adore that Bumbleride stroller you had! Only 10 weeks right now but never hurts to start planning!
My son turned 2 weeks old yesterday so this is timely! I was already thinking about buying moms on call, you’ve convinced me to do it. Did you switch from sleeping in your room to the crib at 4 weeks? I wanted to do in-room sleeping for 4-6 months but my kid is such a noisy sleeper, I don’t know how long we will last.
We have been loving the halo sleep sacks too, especially the fleece ones because I had our baby at 36 weeks and he gets cold easily. They’re great at keeping him warm and snuggled
Baby is due any day now, but I’m fairly certain that a baby carrier will be my favorite thing. I have a soft extensible one ready to go, for skin to skin while still keeping my hands free to do other things!
I’m due in July so my number one baby item would be for coronavirus to go away by then ? nothing like having a baby during a pandemic. But for real, I’ve heard amazing things about the mamaroo swing and that might be my big splurge!
We’re expecting in August and I’ve put pretty much everything you’ve suggested on my registry! We don’t have a lot of stuff yet, but the embe swaddles, zutano booties and the goumi kids mitts. I’m also excited to try the Lovevery playlist subscription.
#1 new baby essential has been purchasing TakingCaraBabies class. Cara does an excellent job explaining sleep strategies and making you feel like there is no one way to teach your baby to sleep both during the day and at night. My husband and I were at a breaking point and Cara has helped bring back our confidence. We will sleep again!
I am pregnant with my first baby, so all of this information is still very new to me and very informative. Thank you for your honesty and willingness to share all of this valuable information! Everything you mentioned sounds like a must have, but I think my husband and I would really enjoy having the design dua bassinet!
Great post! I’m due in May and selected a lot of the same items for my registry after hours and hours of research. I’m super excited to try to Comotomo bottles… I think a good bottle is #1 to make feedings easy and prevent colic, etc. A baby that eats well sleeps well 🙂
I don’t have any baby essentials (yet!) since our baby isn’t here until summer but I just bookmarked this post because it was so thorough & helpful! A few of these items (including Comotomo bottles) were already on our radar & registry so that put me at ease a bit! Thanks for sharing this info! 🙂
Currently due in June with my first so not sure what the essential will be until then. My guess right now will probably be a good carrier so that I can get stuff done while still holding baby.
I’m still pregnant, so not sure about my number one baby item, but I can’t wait to figure it out!
I have found these blanket/ towels to be worth their weight in gold. Recommended to me and passing it on! We use them as blankets, towels, burp clothes, swaddles, you name it. 100% Medical Grade Cotton,Super Water Absorbent,Soft and Comfortable,Suitable for Baby’s Delicate Skin,Cotton Gauze Warm Baby Bath Towels Also for Baby Blanket – 3 Pcs https://www.amazon.com/dp/B016I2XOLK/ref=cm_sw_r_fm_apa_i_bGQAEb66NF143
Thank you for all the great suggestions! This is an awesome giveaway. I am due in 2 months ?. So, I haven’t been able to try anything out yet. I’d have to say so far I’m impressed with my uppababy vista stroller. We’ve been playing with it a little and I love all the features.
Hi! My Mavis is 6 weeks old as of yesterday, and I’d say my top three (can’t pick just one) baby items would be the My Brest Friend nursing pillow for feedings, Avent Soothies pacifiers (the only ones she’ll take, picky girl) and our SNOO. I fought my husband on renting it because I thought it was just another piece of gear he wanted because he’s a tech lover, but it’s actually been pretty wonderful, and we all get such good sleep. I don’t have experience NOT using this particular bassinet, though, so sometimes I wonder if she would’ve done just fine with something that isn’t “smart.”
I truly think less is more as there are just so many options and I always think how our parents didn’t have half of the products offered nowadays and we turned out alright…somewhat anyway 😉 With that said, a great stroller (I like baby jogger and uppababy) and snuggly footie pajamas and swaddles are great! I also think girlfriends sharing the truths on nursing is essential as no one tells you how f’n hard it can be and that if you do breastfeed it’s as okay as if you don’t.
Baby Buddha portable breast pump!
We haven’t had our baby just yet, (a couple more weeks!) but I have already used mesh laundry bags. I received them as a shower gift for booties, socks, nursing pads… all those little things you may lose in the wash. I think they will come in handy!
We’re loving the dock-a-tot. So portable and gives you a chance to use your hands
Getting induced next week and I think the #1 item on my list is the dock a tot! Its so portable and will be nice to bring all around the house!
For us, the #1 baby essential would be the doc-a-tot. We can use it anywhere around the house, even travel with it (can fit in a large suitcase).
Joining the first-time Mama Club, so very grateful for the information. Our little guy is due in June so I’m just a sponge right now. I’ve ordered 2 Comotomo to try and have heard great things about Dyper.
We love the Baby Brezza machine if you’re using formula.
Pregnant with my first so can’t say what my number one item would be, but I got a lot of recommendations for the Fridababy nosefrida from my mom friends!
Super helpful post! I’m due this summer and this will be a great resource as I put my list together. I think diapers and patience are going to be my top items 🙂
I’m due with my first child in August and have been following along your journey to motherhood. It has been really helpful and comforting for me, so thank you for sharing! These posts especially are so helpful while trying to wade through the massive amount of stuff that comes along with being a new mom. So while I can’t say from experience what the number one baby item is, I’m most excited about the bassinet. I love your take on finding one that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing and could be repurposed once baby grows out of it. The Design Dua one you landed on is beautiful!
Love your sweater, where is it from?!
I’m due in a week and a half, so not sure about essentials yet, but this is so helpful! Definitely excited to use our SnuggleMe and our halo bassinet!
Number one baby essential for my LO and I was definitely the halo sleepsack which worked wonders, as well I have to mention the 4moms mamaroo. That machine would take alot of the walking burden from you, and my LO loved the car motion of it.
Thanks for this list! I have been meaning to get started with Moms on Call with my 11 week old before I go back to work (good sleeper at night, bad napper). My must have baby thing is this silly little sound machine that was a recommendation from several friends – I tell everyone to buy it. For some reason this specific white noise works so well –
My baby passes right out! Yogasleep Rohm Portable White Noise Machine for Travel | 3 Soothing, Natural Sounds with Volume Control | Compact Sleep Therapy for Adults & Baby | USB Rechargeable | Lanyard for Easy Hanging https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01D50RZQI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_veTAEbN3AXQCP
We loved the Shusher! It was SO helpful in her our little to fall asleep and I loved that we could easily take it anywhere!
A stroller that can go anywhere!
I’m having my first in early May and have been so closely following all of your great tips and recs! I’ve been eyeing the Snuggle Me lounger and definitely something like the BabyBjorn or a wrap style carrier. Thank you for all of this great information. Love your content always 🙂
A supportive and involved partner!
Our number one essential was the Taking Cara Babies course! Our 10 week old has been sleeping through the night for a couple weeks now and has been such a smiley baby now that we know her sleepy/hungry cues and how to calm any fussiness – such a game changer for this new mama!
I’m so glad you shared in depth about your experiences and what has worked for you! I am three weeks away from giving birth to our first so I don’t have any must-haves that are tried and true but so far I’m most excited about trying out the Snuggle Me!
Baby due in June, first one! When I worked at a children’s hospital swaddles were a game changer—but I’m sure I’ll learn a lot more with a baby of my own! Great post!
I’m pregnant with my first and the snuggle me organic is on the top of my list!!
Due in September so I am loving this post! I have not done a ton of research yet but a stroller seems like a must have for me!! Also…patience!! Haha
29 weeks pregnant so I don’t personally have a #1 yet but have been told sound machine by many!
Boppy, Baby Bjorn Mini, Uppa Babby Vista, MAM bottles
So, it’s actually our Stokke Tripp Trapp high chair. It is probably our most used baby item and baby sits so well in it! It also fits well in our small dining area.
Number one item is a non toxic baby mattress. We went with the Newton baby mattress.
The Hakaa pump was a must for me!
The Hakka was a game changer for me! It collects the milk from the breast you aren’t feeding or pumping with. Sometimes I get more on the hakaa side than on the pump side! It is a silicone bottle that suctions to your breast and you can barely tell it is there.
Since I’m pregnant, my must-have baby item is a baby to start with! But I’m also looking forward to finding the right type of diapers. I’ve seen ads for Dyper, and reading your experience with them is super helpful! Love that they have a composting program.
Love these recommendations. The bassinet looks especially ?. Swaddles with zippers instead of snaps make things so much easier and quicker!
During this crazy time I’m stocking up on diapers and the necessities to make sure I have what I need when baby arrives
I’m not due for another 4 weeks, but I’m most looking forward to using my Uppababy Vista stroller! We live in a downtown region and I plan on going for walks A LOT 🙂
Those bamboo diapers look great! I love that they are compostable.
The MoonWomb pillow by The Sustainable Baby Co has been a life saver for helping me get more restful sleep while pregnant. I think it’ll also be a great feeding pillow when little babe arrives in September!
I am a first-time mom due in the fall, but so far my must-have pregnancy item is ginger ale! It is saving me right now. I’ve been told by friends that a Snuggle Me Organic lounger is a lifesaver, so I just purchased one over the weekend because they were having a sale. It was my first baby purchase.
We relied heavily on the Dock-a-Tot as a portable, safe place for baby to chill and nap, along with the Solly wrap to transport/soothe/nap the baby hands-free. We also relied a lot on our Yeti insulated coffee mugs to power through the first few weeks!
This is a great essentials list! My must have is a cosleeping pillow like the snuggle me, it’s the only way I survived.
A white noise machine is a must-have because we live in a one-story home and noise really travels!
I’m due in July with our first and the first thing I added to my registry was the Design Dua basket with rocker! So looking forward to having our little babe close to us during the night. I added the Baby Bjorn carrier per your recommendation, as well as a Solly baby wrap to carry her while we’re just hanging out at home. No idea what to expect during the first few months so very much appreciate your perspective, and thank you for the reminder that I’ve “got this.” It’s also been so sweet to see how your pups and kitty are doing with your new addition!
Soon to be mom in about 2 months, so I’m not sure yet on the must have! I think that Snuggle Me Organic might be the thing that turns into a must have for us 🙂
I am having my first baby in May and this post is so helpful! I also purchased the Paxton Swivel Glider & Recliner from PB, so I am really excited for that. There are a lot of great items listed here already, but something I haven’t seen mentioned yet is the Bumbo seat (for when the baby can sit up), which was recommended to me by a friend. Thanks for all the great tips! 🙂
We’ve tried to be very minimal with what we purchased so thought it’d be excessive but our UV sterilizer is a favorite! We can fit bottles, pumping pieces, pacifiers, etc at the end of the day and it’s all clean and ready to go. No need to boil anything! It’s also great bc you can sterilize your phone, other electronics, stuffed animals…so multi-purpose. This has saved us so much time, and more importantly, our sanity!
I’m expecting in August and my must-have is going to be a breast pump (I’m still shopping so will take a look at the Elvie. Both my sister-in-laws love the Spectra). I’m looking forward (but also super nervous) about breastfeeding and would like to continue breastfeeding once I return to work.
Congratulations on the arrival of Marin! Loved reading about what worked for you. Number one baby item is definitely the Bjorn Bouncer! He loves it and it travels easily from room to room. I was lucky to get it secondhand, too.
In the old days..lol…I couldn’t live without a baby swing. My youngest is now 30, but my first grandbaby will be born later this year. Love all your helpful information to pass on to my daughter.
Mama to be here 🙂 My must have was the uppa baby vista! Excited for warmer weather and walks with my new babe 🙂
We loved the dock-a-tot and a schedule. Moms on call wasn’t a thing but had a pretty strict 3 hour schedule in the beginning!
The dock a tot!!! About to have baby #2 and will definitely be using!
We absolutely love the SNOO!
It has been a lifesaver.
Snuggle me organic!!! We love the game infant lounger!!!!
Fellow Rhode Islander due with our first baby in August! Two things I’m thinking will be essential are the moby wrap and snuggle me!
Love this comprehensive list! The best thing I got was a bunch of different hand me down swaddles from a friend to borrow, so we could see which we liked and which the baby liked (which changed over time!) the Love to Dream Swaddle Up sleep sack / swaddle ended up being our perfect fit because she liked having her arms up and she looked so sweet, like a flying squirrel ? Thank you for sharing all this with us ?
I’m due in September so who knows what I’ll actually end up loving, but am looking forward to using the Solly wrap carrier!
You are the only influencer I trust with this stuff, so I am so grateful for this post. I am definitely going to purchase all of your recommendations. I’m pregnant with my first at 41 and I’m completely ???♀️. Really appreciate your posts.
Newly pregnant, so no idea what my essentials are yet! ? But love reading all of your tips—thank you!!
For my first, I found the Boppy lounger infinitely useful. We used it well past the infant stage! Plan on using it again for my second girl due in July.
My recommendation is the Wubbanub.
As a mom to be, I think it will be really important for my mental health to get out of the house with my baby! Our closest friends are always on the go with their newborn, although not now with Corona! My biggest investment will be a jogging stroller!
I’m not sure yet! I’m in my second trimester with my first baby. I’m using this extra time at home to start thinking about what we will need, and found your Non-Toxic Registry post so useful. Based on feedback from friends, I’m anticipating that a Snuggle Me will be a must have item for the early days.
I’d say a must have would probably be a snuggle me organic! I’m also very intrigued with the dypers.
Thank you so much for the post! This will be so helpful in getting ready for my first baby.
I’m due in just a few weeks so I’m super excited about this post! To me, diapers seem like the number one must-have.
Talk about mom brain… I can’t even remember if I have entered yet! LOL!! New mom to 9 week old Brody, and our #1 is kimono style everything, especially nightgowns! why bother freaking out pulling clothes over his little head when i can snap a few buttons. game changer! and the nightgowns, omg pull it up for a quick diaper change! wish someone would’ve shared this before buying the old school over the head onesies!
Dyper sustainable diapers! Been looking for a sustainable version but can’t bring myself to go cloth! These look amazing!
I’d say that my number one essential is a baby carrier. I had several different types, but I used the Ergobaby carrier the most. It allowed me to cook, clean and do anything/everything I needed to do on schedule if my babies wanted to be carried at those times.
Wow thank you for the informative post! My sister is having her first and this will be such a help to her. I would love to enter the giveaway, my #1 for babies is the Graco backpack diaper bag. All in one place and pockets for easy access.
I’m a first time mom due in April and I think my must have will be the baby bjorn bouncer seat!
My number one must have baby item is the Nose Frida. We still use it with my daughter that just turned 3. It seems gross to suck boogers out of your child’s nose but you get used to it and it helps reduce ear infections!
My #1 must have baby item is a dock-a-tot!
I was shocked by how invaluable I found the snuggle me. It’s a dream. But to not be redundant, the little unicorn muslin quilts are a favorite. Sending you so many good vibes!
Number one essential good stock of diapers!
My number one baby item had to be the solly baby! I’m due with baby boy #3 this summer and have a feeling it will still hold true then! 🙂
2 white noise machines? Wow thats so clever! I’m using one right now but I have to move it if I want my lo to nap in another room sometimes. Although I’m following this sleep training guide (this one: http://parental-love.com/shop/baby-sleep-training) that says about one sleeping place and I think I will go that way soon. Amby is just 3 mo and that’s not enough for the training yet but it’s good to be prepared, right?
My number one baby item is DEFINITELY this blog with all the useful resources for someone like me, who’s expecting her first and has ZERO experience with babies. Thank you Jess for helping me get ready and making me feel like I can do this!!
I’m going to be a first time Grandma! Health precedes Happiness 🙂 Penny’s are short. This looks like an awesome option I was connected through your web-site. Also, I’m gleaning so much from going through All the content on Jess Ann Kirby’s site.
Thank you!
Kerry
As a breastfeeding mom, my top item is the smart double electric breast pump from Eonian Care. It changes everything!