When you’re expecting a baby, it’s easy to feel like you need to buy everything.
But the truth is, newborns need far less than what most lists suggest.
If you’re trying to keep things simple and avoid overspending, here are the newborn essentials you actually need.
Feeding Essentials:
Whether you’re breastfeeding or using formula, these basics help:
– Bottles, I didn’t use them much because baby is strictly breastfed but my SO or mom would use them if I left baby with them and she seemed to latch very easily with these.—>https://amzn.to/4xcyBin
– Burp cloths, I loved these! I feel like you get a lot for your money here. I got 2 packs of these. —>https://amzn.to/4ve64qv
– Nursing bra, the ones I love and live in because they’re just that comfortable are the Mom Cozy ones. I did order some cheaper ones off of Shein which were cool to sleep in but didn’t stay put. Would wake up with everything hanging. I got 2 different ones which I’ll link here—>https://amzn.to/4u0Ef4a & https://amzn.to/49mLQ5F
– Feeding/Nursing Pillow (if breastfeeding) I love the mom cozy, lifesaving if you want to be able to use your hands while feeding. (Like do your makeup) I have the boppy and mom cozy and definitely reach for the Mom Cozy one more. Check it out here—>https://amzn.to/4uBlXaP
–Bottle warmer so not needed often if breastfeeding but helps to defrost breastmilk in the storage bags or bottles. —>https://amzn.to/4uA2w1T
– Breastmilk Storing Bags a necessity if breastfeeding. I tried a few different brands over the years but again Mom Cozy for the win! https://amzn.to/4vdmZtk
– Wearable hands-free Breast Pump check with your insurance because some insurance carriers actually provide a breast pump or funds to go towards one! I got the Zomee Fit one over Mom Cozy and it works great and a better price. —>https://amzn.to/4uA3ATr
Diapering:
You’ll go through a lot of diapers in the early weeks.
– Diapers (newborn or size 1) We tried all different brands from our baby shower but once we ran through those, I started her on Members Mark from Sams club and I actually love them the best out of all the ones we tried. Perfect price point and quality.
– Wipes Tried most brands of these too and Millie Moon sensitive we it for me —>https://amzn.to/3POX4cy Huggies were too rough, Pampers were too wet and stretchy but Millie Moon was like the perfect mix of the 2.
– Diaper cream so with my older 2 they didn’t have SPRAY diaper cream. This is something that you absolutely have to have. So much so I bought 3! One for the diaper bag, one for upstairs and one for downstairs. You don’t have to deal with it getting all over your fingers and it makes for easy application. Plus it actually works and soothes so that another plus! —>https://amzn.to/49oFfrn
Sleep:
Keeping your baby safe and comfortable while sleeping is important.
– Bassinet or crib I got a bedside bassinet, I like it but wish I would’ve gotten one that rocks or soothes like this—>https://amzn.to/430gdeE Definitely want to make sure it has the drop side making it easy for middle of the night feedings and changing without having to get out of the bed!
– Swaddle blankets I like the Muslin Swaddle blankets. The material is soft and not too thick making it easier to swaddle correctly. Plus, the size and them having a little stretch helps too.. Some other brands are just too small and can’t really used past a month old depending on the size of your LO. https://amzn.to/4afJA0i
– Simple onesies for sleep
Clothing:
You don’t need a huge wardrobe.
– 5–7 onesies
– 2–3 sleepers
– Socks
Bathing & Care:
You can keep this very minimal.
– Baby soap – SheaMoisture Baby Wash & Shampoo for All Skin Types Raw Shea, Chamomile & Argan Oil Baby Wash and Shampoo with Frankincense & Myrrh. https://amzn.to/4uLXKyz I’ve used this with all 3 girls. It just smells so yummy and great for sensitive skin as my older 2 had very sensitive skin when little.
They now have a nighttime one with lavender which I currently use and love it’s smell also https://amzn.to/4dPw0Sr SheaMoisture Baby Shampoo & Bath Milk Manuka Honey & Lavender.
Don’t forget the lotions to go with them!
– Soft towels– These are super soft and after washed not fuzzy, plus have good absorption.—>https://amzn.to/3PP4ahc
– Baby nail clippers, I’ve always used Safety First brand with all 3 kids. You don’t need all the other fancy things to cut the nails…( The best time to cut the babies nails is right after bath time when baby is relaxed or during feedings.) https://amzn.to/4vhK8er
On-the-go:
For appointments or outings:
– Diaper bag This one does show frequently returned but I have it in black and haven’t had an issue with it. It’s just the right size, has A LOT of pockets and features and you can conveniently wear it as a backpack. https://amzn.to/43AkQfu
– Car seat We got the Evenflo Pivot NXT Lite Max travel system —-> https://amzn.to/4vfJUEt This converts to a bassinet which is cool while out for naps and diaper changes! Definitely wish I would’ve had with my older 2. I don’t know about you, but I never use the changing stations in the public bathrooms. I’ve also heard some pretty crazy stories regarding all the black marks that are on them..
– A simple baby blanket
It’s easy to feel pressure to have everything ready, but your baby mostly just needs you.
Start with the basics, and you can always add more later as you learn what works best for your family.
Keeping things simple not only saves money, but also makes those early days feel a little less overwhelming.
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