Every new parent gets overwhelmed by the sheer number of baby products out there. Here's what you actually need — and what you can skip.
Must-Haves (Get These Before Birth)
Safety
Infant car seat (required to leave the hospital)Baby monitorOutlet coversSleep
Bassinet or crib with firm, flat mattressFitted crib sheets (2–3)Swaddle blankets or sleep sacksFeeding
If breastfeeding: nursing pillow, breast pump (often covered by insurance), milk storage bagsIf bottle feeding: bottles (try a few brands — babies are picky), formula, bottle brushDiapering
Diapers (get mostly Newborn and Size 1; don't overbuy Newborn)Wipes (buy in bulk — you'll use thousands)Diaper creamChanging padClothing
Onesies with snap closures (0–3 and 3–6 months)Sleepers/footie pajamasSocks and hatsOne or two weather-appropriate outfitsHealth
Nasal aspirator (Frida NoseFrida is worth it)Digital rectal thermometer (most accurate for newborns)Nail file (babies have surprisingly sharp nails)Baby nail clippersNice to Have
Bouncer seatBaby carrier or wrapWhite noise machineBaby bathtubPlay matSkip These (At First)
Wipe warmer — not necessary and can breed bacteriaDiaper Genie — a regular trash can with a lid works fineBaby shoes — newborns don't walkTons of clothing — babies outgrow sizes fast, and you'll receive lots as giftsPro Tip: Use Your Baby Registry
Add all the must-haves to your Baby Bids pool's linked Amazon registry so friends and family can shop directly for what you actually need.