Becoming a first-time mom is an exciting and overwhelming experience. With so many baby products available, it’s easy to feel unsure about what you truly need. After going through the newborn phase, many parents realize that some items were game-changers while others were unnecessary. To make your journey easier, here are 21 newborn essentials and things I wish I knew as a first-time mom!
Newborn Essentials You Absolutely Need
1. Diapers (Lots of Them!)
Babies go through about 10–12 diapers a day in the first few months. Stock up on different sizes and brands like Pampers Swaddlers or Huggies Little Snugglers to see what works best.
2. Wipes
A good-quality, fragrance-free wipe is a must to prevent skin irritation. Water Wipes or Pampers Sensitive Wipes are great choices.
3. Diaper Cream
Newborns often get diaper rashes, so having Aquaphor or Desitin Maximum Strength on hand is essential.
4. Swaddle Blankets or Sleep Sacks
Swaddling helps babies sleep better by mimicking the womb. The Love to Dream Swaddle Up or Halo Sleep Sacks are lifesavers for sleep-deprived parents.
5. A Safe, Comfortable Place to Sleep
A bassinet or a crib with a firm mattress is crucial. The Halo Bassinest is great for keeping your baby close at night without bed-sharing.
6. White Noise Machine
Babies sleep better with white noise, which mimics the sounds of the womb. The Hatch Rest+ is a great option, doubling as a nightlight and alarm for later years.
7. Baby Monitor
If your baby sleeps in another room, a video monitor like the Infant Optics DXR-8 PRO provides peace of mind.
8. Breast Pump & Nursing Essentials
If breastfeeding, a good pump like the Spectra S1 is helpful. Also, stock up on nursing pads, nipple cream, and a nursing pillow like the Boppy.
9. Bottles & Formula (If Needed)
Even if breastfeeding, having Dr. Brown’s or Comotomo bottles can help with pumped milk or supplementing with formula.
10. Burp Cloths & Bibs
Babies spit up—a lot. Muslin burp cloths and waterproof bibs save outfits from constant changes.
11. Baby Carrier or Wrap
A baby wrap like the Boba Wrap or a structured Ergobaby Omni 360 carrier helps keep your hands free while soothing your baby.
12. A Stroller & Car Seat
A travel system like the Graco Modes Travel System ensures safe travel and easy mobility.
13. Infant Bathtub & Soft Towels
Newborns need gentle baths. The Angelcare Baby Bath Support is a great option, and hooded towels keep them warm afterward.
14. Mild Baby Wash & Lotion
Choose gentle products like Aveeno Baby Wash and CeraVe Baby Lotion to protect your baby’s delicate skin.
15. Pacifiers
A pacifier can help soothe a fussy baby. Philips Avent Soothies and MAM Pacifiers are highly recommended.
16. Zippered Onesies & Sleepers
Skip the buttoned outfits! Carter’s Sleep & Play or Burt’s Bees Baby zippered onesies make nighttime changes easier.
17. Baby Nail Clippers or File
Newborn nails grow fast and can be sharp. A baby nail file or electric trimmer like the FridaBaby NailFrida is safer than regular clippers.
18. Thermometer & Infant Medicine
A rectal thermometer is the most accurate for newborns. Also, have infant Tylenol (doctor-approved) on hand for fevers.
19. Nose Suction & Saline Spray
Newborns often have congestion. A NoseFrida combined with saline drops helps clear tiny noses.
20. Changing Pad & Portable Diaper Caddy
A portable changing pad and a diaper caddy keep essentials organized for easy changes anywhere.
21. A Support System
More than any product, support from family, friends, or an online mom community is essential to help you through the newborn stage!
Things I Wish I Knew as a First-Time Mom
✔ Newborn Sleep is Unpredictable – Forget the idea of a strict schedule in the first few weeks. Just focus on keeping baby comfortable and fed.
✔ Cluster Feeding is Normal – If your baby suddenly wants to nurse all the time, it’s likely a growth spurt. It doesn’t mean you don’t have enough milk!
✔ You Don’t Need Every Baby Product – Fancy swings, wipe warmers, and bottle sterilizers aren’t essentials. Stick to what truly makes life easier.
✔ Postpartum Recovery Takes Time – Have a peri bottle, stool softeners, and comfortable nursing bras ready for yourself!
✔ Ask for Help! – Don’t be afraid to ask for help from your partner, family, or friends. Raising a baby is a team effort!
Final Thoughts
Preparing for a newborn is exciting, but it’s important to focus on the essentials and not get caught up in unnecessary purchases. These 21 must-haves will help make your transition into motherhood smoother. Every baby is different, so adjust your registry to fit your lifestyle and remember—you got this, mam
