Ultimate Guide to Baby Gear Essentials for Newborns

This day in age there are an overabundance of baby gizmos and gadgets. Things that you might remember your parents using when you grew up might no longer exist or have been completely upgraded to something entirely new. With so many baby gadget options on the market, it can be challenging to figure out what essentials you truly need.

Personally, we spent hours, if not days, performing our own research on different products, reading reviews, articles, forums, watching videos and shopping at stores to see and feel the products - all before we purchased them or put them on our registry. To help you navigate this process, this guide of basic baby gear essentials will simplify your decision-making and ensure you are well-prepared for your baby's arrival. The list of the specific items that we own and would recommend are available in our Must Haves Lists too.

To start, investing in a safe and comfortable bassinet is crucial for your newborn's sleep. Tradition might tell you to buy a crib first, but your day old little one most likely will not be sleeping in their own crib for several months. When beginning the bassinet or crib search, sure to look for a sturdy option with breathable materials and adjustable mattress heights to ensure your baby's safety and your convenience.

Purchasing a quality car seat is a non-negotiable item for bringing your baby home from the hospital and for all future outings (like all the upcoming doctor check-ups). There are numerous brands, versions, accessories, etc. Definitely read the safety reviews on whatever seat you're leaning towards.

When it comes to transporting your little one, a reliable stroller that suits your lifestyle is also essential. Whether you prefer a lightweight, umbrella stroller for quick trips or a sturdy jogger for outdoor adventures, choosing a stroller that meets your needs is key. Don't forget to consider features such as easy maneuverability, adjustable seating positions, and ample storage space. Other factors to consider before adding to cart is to check the ease of cleaning the materials, if they are breathable fabrics (for warmer climates) and if the stroller will properly fit in your trunks while still leaving some grocery bag space.

For feeding time, a comfortable nursing chair or glider can make late-night feedings much more manageable for you both. We personally went a little "extra" on our recliner purchase to be able to have lumbar and headrest adjustability. Almost two years later and we are still so grateful we spent those couple extra bucks for those "luxury" features.

Stock up on essentials like bottles, a breast pump (if needed), bottle sterilizer, and formula (if not breastfeeding) to ensure you are well-equipped for feeding your newborn. Read up on the different bottle types (glass vs plastic), nipple flows and varieties, and cleaning abilities. We preferred the Dr. Brown's glass bottles (more sanitary and longer lasting than plastic) and then switched to plastic once our son was able to start holding the bottles and feeding himself.

When it comes to diaper changes, a sturdy changing table or dresser with a changing pad is a must-have for your nursery. There will be lots of "messes" on your changing station, so try to find something that will be easy to clean. Stock up on diapers, wipes, diaper cream, and diaper pail to make diaper changes quick and convenient. (If you're having a baby shower - add in a diaper raffle to help start your stock.)

Lastly, don't forget about essential clothing items like onesies, sleepers, hats, socks, and swaddles to keep your newborn cozy and comfortable. Additionally, investing in a quality baby monitor will give you peace of mind and allow you to keep an eye on your little one while they sleep. There are also devices to monitor baby's breathing and oxygen levels, if desired. We liked having the Owlet on our baby's foot to monitor his breathing and oxygen during the first several months and we decided on the Nanit Monitor that will most likely live in our son's room until he's no longer a toddler.

Remember, every family's needs are different, so prioritize the baby gear essentials that align with your lifestyle and budget. Additional options to help you find and afford all the items you're wanting, check out your local donation shops, second-hand stores, Facebook Marketplace, neighborhood garage sales, etc. By focusing on the essentials listed in this guide, you can confidently welcome your newborn into a safe and nurturing environment. Happy nesting!