Shopping for a baby can be overwhelming – you want to make sure you’ve got the best of everything (without breaking the bank). However, all you really need for your little one is a place to sleep, a blanket for bundling, and diapers (lots of them!). That said, I know you are not living in the Stone Age. You deserve some nice-to-have accessories that can make your job as a parent significantly easier.
Hence, I have compiled a list of things to buy for your baby that can help you navigate the over-flowing world of baby gear and accessories. Using this list as a guide, you’d be able to distinguish between must-have and useless items for your baby, helping you save both time and money.
So, without further ado, let’s begin!
FURNITURE
Must-haves:
- Co-sleeper or crib
- Crib mattress
Nice-to-haves:
- Chest/dresser
- Changing table
- Vaporizer or humidifier
- Hamper
- Bassinet (don’t use for baby’s over three months)
- Glider or rocking chair
- Baby monitor
Baby gear you don’t need:
A used crib. When it comes to infants, always buy a new one for safety purposes.
BABYPROOFING EQUIPMENT
Must-have (for baby’s over four months):
- Power outlet covers
- Cabinet latches
- Gates at the top and foot of stairs
- Drawer Latches
- Fireplace bumper
- Furniture anchors
Nice-to-haves:
- Corner guards for tables
- Toilet lock
If you want to learn how to babyproof your house to create a safe space for your little one, be sure to check my blog post for a detailed babyproofing checklist!
BREASTFEEDING EQUIPMENT
Must-haves:
- Nursing bras (at least 2 or 3)
- Nursing pillow
- Nursing pads (at least 2 to 3 boxes)
- Burp cloths (5 or more)
- Bibs (preferably in cotton and at least five or more)
Nice-to-haves:
- Nipple cream; especially for the initial few weeks
- Breast milk storage containers or bags
- Breast pumping machine (hand pump works fine; however, get an electric pump if you plan on using it daily at work)
- Many nipples and bottles, in case somebody else will be feeding the baby
FORMULA FEEDING EQUIPMENT
Must-haves:
- 7 to 8 bottles with newborn nipples
- Baby formula (ensure you have sufficient amount for several weeks)
- Burp cloths (5 or more)
- Bibs (preferably in cotton and at least five or more)
- Dishwasher basket or bottle-cleaning brush
- Drying rack for washed bottles
- Insulated carrier/cooler for outings
Nice-to-haves:
- Bottle sterilizer
- Dry formula dispenser
Baby gear you don’t need:
- Bottle warmer (using hot water works just fine and takes the same time to get the job done)
- Bottle proper (lest if you have multiples)
DIAPERING EQUIPMENT
Must-haves:
- Newborn diapers (at least two packets to start with)
- Baby cleaning wipes
- A waterproof changing table pad
- Diaper rash cream
- Diaper c or trash can with a lid
- Changing table pad covers (at least 2 or 3; preferably in cotton or terry cloth)
Nice-to-haves:
- Non-talc powder to get the diaper area dry quicker
- Waterproof pads to keep under the baby’s buttocks (4 or 5 in a rectangular or square shape)
- Baby cream (if your child has dry skin)
Baby gear you don’t need:
- Diaper stacker
- Wipe warmer
There you have it – all the must-have, nice-to-have, and needless things to buy for your baby. Get started with this list, and continue with the must-have items for your baby Part 2 once you’re ready!
