Baby Must-Haves: Essentials Every New Parent Needs

Bringing home a new baby is one of the most exciting—and overwhelming—moments in a parent’s life. With so many baby products out there, it’s hard to know what you truly need and what might end up collecting dust in the corner. As a parent, I’ve been there—and I’ve rounded up the essentials that actually make a difference in those early weeks and months.

Whether you're creating a registry or doing some last-minute nesting, this list includes the real must-haves for feeding, sleep, diapering, and everything in between.

Feeding Essentials

Whether you’re breastfeeding, formula feeding, or a bit of both, these items make the process smoother. As a new mom, I am including links to some of my favorites.

Nursing pillow – Supports both baby and your arms during feeding. Also, a lifesaver for me were these pillow covers as I was constantly having to change the covers after feedings.

Bottles – Start with a few to see what your baby prefers. Mine was so particular when it came to bottles so I tried them all! Dr. Browns were the only ones that worked for me.

Bottle sterilizer or microwave steam bags – Makes cleaning quick and easy. This is a must have especially at the newborn stage.

Burp cloths – Trust me, you’ll go through more than you think!

High-quality bibs – For feeding time and drool control.

Sleep Must-Haves

Sleep can feel like a distant dream in those first few months—but the right gear helps:

Swaddles or sleep sacks – Keep baby cozy and secure.

Crib or bassinet – Choose something safe and comfortable for your space.

White noise machine – Helps block out household noise and soothe baby.

Baby monitor – Offers peace of mind, especially during naps and overnight. I really like this one because it does not require wi-fi.

Diapering Essentials

Diaper duty is a big part of daily life. Here’s what makes it easier:

Diapers and wipes – Stock up ahead of time!

Diaper cream – A must-have to prevent or soothe diaper rash.

Changing pad – Whether in a nursery or portable option for on-the-go.

Diaper bag – Look for one with lots of compartments and easy-to-clean fabric.

Bath & Hygiene

Baby bathtub – Makes bath time safer and more comfortable.

Gentle baby wash and shampoo – Go for fragrance-free if your baby has sensitive skin.

Soft baby towels and washcloths – Gentle on delicate skin.

Nail clippers or file – Baby nails grow fast and can scratch easily!

On-the-Go Gear

Leaving the house with a newborn? Here’s what makes life easier:

Infant car seat – A must from day one for safety and travel. This one is great for families on the go as it converts to from a car seat to a stroller with one click of a button! The downside: only good for up to 12 months or so.

Stroller – Choose one that fits your lifestyle, whether compact, jogging, or travel system.

Baby carrier or wrap – Keeps your hands free and your baby close. I love this brand because it was by far the easiest to put on.

Portable changing mat – Essential for quick changes anywhere.

Final Thoughts

While every baby is different, these essentials are a solid starting point that cover the basics without going overboard. Remember: You don’t need everything right away. Focus on what works best for you and your baby - and adjust as you go.

You've got this, and you're not alone on this journey.

To save time (and sanity), I’ve created a curated list of my favorite baby items available on Amazon—many of which are Prime-eligible and parent-tested.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through these links. I only recommend products I genuinely love and use. Thank you for supporting this blog!

👉 My Complete List of Must Have Baby Essentials