Top Essentials required to be ready for newborn baby’s first few weeks
A date has been finalized. You are eagerly waiting for the day.
A lot of things are going through your mind. You are anxious and excited to see your newborn baby for the first time.
You know that this joyful experience will bring a fair share of responsibilities.
You have already prepared your long list of essential items you need to be ready for the newborn baby’s first few weeks.
Must have items for Newborn baby’s first few weeks.
You are just wondering if you’ve written down all the essential items or if anything is missing.
Don’t stress much. Scroll down for a complete list of items new moms need to be ready for a newborn baby’s first few weeks.
1. Crib or Bassinet
A place for your baby to sleep, play, and cry in those early days.
As babies grow quickly, so dimensions of a crib mattress are important.
Baby will feel more comfortable if the size of the crib mattress is adjustable.
Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 convertible crib and Halo BassiNest Swivel sleeper3.0 are the most popular.
Must-Have Features:
- Sturdy.
- Adjustable mattress Height.
- Breathable mesh side.
- Convertible.
Tips for Buying:
- Ensure it meets safety standards.
- Choose one with a firm mattress and a stable design.
- Check for non-toxic materials.
- Ensure the proper size of a crib mattress.
Things to Avoid:
- Secondhand cribs without proper inspection for safety.
- Bulky, loose hardware.
Top Brands:
Availability:
- Amazon, Walmart, Buy Buy Baby.
Price Range:
- $100-$500.
Safety Tips:
- Avoid placing soft bedding, toys, or pillows in the crib to prevent suffocation.
- Ensure proper assembly and infant mattress size.
- Follow weight limit guidelines.
2. Baby Monitor
You always want to have an eye on your little one and a baby monitor can give you peace of mind.
Nowadays, you can access baby monitors with mobile apps and sync multiple devices together.
There are many good quality apps with baby monitor tracking features.
Must-Have Features:
- Clear audio/video, night vision, and temperature sensors
- Can be used with your mobile.
Tips for Buying:
- Look for a long battery life monitor and a secure connection.
Things to Avoid:
- Monitors with poor battery life, range, and unreliable connectivity.
Top Brand:
Availability:
- Amazon, Best Buy, Target, Walmart.
Price Range:
- $50-$200.
Safety Tips:
- Place the monitor away from the crib to prevent any risk of entanglement or strangulation.
3. Diapers
Diapers are essential and you need millions of them.
Always ensure that you are changing your baby’s diaper the right way.
Must-Have Features:
- Comfortable, wetness indicator.
Tips for Buying:
- Consider the baby’s weight and age when selecting sizes.
- Buy in bulk to save money as nobody knows how many you need.
Things to Avoid:
- Avoid buying all of one size, unfit sizes.
Top Brands:
Availability:
- Amazon, Walmart, Target, Costco.
Price Range:
- $20-$40 per pack.
Safety Tips:
- Change diapers frequently to prevent diaper rashes and ensure proper disposal.
- Check for proper fit to avoid leaks and skin irritation.
4. Baby Clothes
I understand you are waiting to shop for your baby. Always go for comfort and ease.
Consider purchasing onesies, sleepers, hats, and socks.
Always wash first before using it for the first time to remove any chemicals.
Must-Have Features:
- Soft, breathable, easy to put on and take off.
Tips for Buying:
- Buy comfortable clothes.
- Start with basic onesies and sleepers.
- Consider the weather.
Things to Avoid:
- Tight elastic clothes are big “No”.
- Loose buttoned clothes.
Top Brands:
Availability:
- Amazon, Gap, Old Navy.
Price Range:
- $15-$35 per set.
Safety Tips:
- Buy flame-resistant sleepwear.
- Avoid clothes with strings to prevent strangulation.
5. Baby Bath Tub
It is a perfect way to acclimatize your baby with water and bath.
New parents are afraid of giving their newborn a bath.
The perfect bathtub takes the fear away and develops confidence in parents by keeping the baby contained and snug.
Must-Have Features:
- Non-slip surface.
- Proper drainage.
Tips for Buying:
- Choose a tub that fits your sink or bathtub.
- Consider one with a newborn sling for added support.
Things to Avoid:
- Complex designs tubs are difficult to clean.
Top Brands:
Availability:
- Amazon, Buy Buy Baby, Bed Bath & beyond.
Price Range:
- $25-$50.
Safety Tips:
- Never leave your baby unattended.
- Ensure their head and neck have proper support during bath time.
- Check the water temperature before the bath.
6. Baby Car Seat
Safety is paramount for parents in all aspects.
Choose a reliable car seat for your babies that meets all safety standards.
Kindly note that car seats are mandatory and hospitals won’t let you leave unless you have a properly installed car seat in your car.
Must-Have Features:
- Proper installation system.
- Side-impact protection.
- Adjustable harness.
Tips for Buying:
- Ensure it complies with all safety standards.
- Check weight & height limits.
Things to Avoid:
- Used car seats without knowing their history or expiration date.
Top Brands:
Availability:
- Amazon, Walmart, Target, Buy Buy Baby, Costco.
Price Range:
- $100-$300.
Safety Tips:
- Install the car seat rear-facing in the back seat and make sure it’s securely fastened.
- Always look for safety updates and recalls.
7. Baby Carrier
A baby carrier makes travel easy.
It allows you to keep your baby close while keeping your hands free.
Must-Have Features:
- Comfortable for both parents and baby.
- Adjustable straps.
- Proper support for baby’s hips.
Tips for Buying:
- Try different carriers to find the right fit.
- Consider your lifestyle and activities, and ensure proper fit.
Things to Avoid:
- Carriers with poor weight distribution or inadequate support.
Top Brands:
Availability:
- Amazon, Buy Buy Baby, target.
Price Range:
- $50-$200.
Safety Tips:
- Ensure your baby’s face is visible and not covered by fabric.
- Always check straps for proper tightness.
8. Breast Pump
It is a valuable asset for new moms.
You can plan breastfeeding and bottle feeding at your convenience.
Must-Have Features:
- Easy to clean.
- Adjustable suction strength.
- Compatibility with bottles.
- Portable.
Tips for Buying:
- Consider electric or manual based on our needs.
Things to Avoid:
- Buying a pump without checking reviews or recommendations, noisy pumps.
Top Brands:
Availability:
- Amazon, Walmart, Target.
Price Range:
- $50-$300.
Safety Tips:
- Follow proper sterilization procedures.
- Store breast milk in clean, BPA-free containers.
9. Baby Bottles
Recommendations to have six bottles for the newborn baby.
You will need 4-ounce and 8-ounce bottles and a cleaning brush.
This will ensure that there is always sufficient milk available when someone else needs to feed your baby in your absence.
Must-Have Features:
- Durable materials.
- Easy to clean,
- Compatibility with breast pump.
Tips for Buying:
- Consider glass bottles for a chemical-free option.
Things to Avoid:
- Bottles with too many small parts that are difficult to clean.
Top Brands:
Availability:
- Amazon, Walmart, Target.
Price Range:
- $15-$40 for a set.
Safety Tips:
- Check bottle nipples for signs of wear and replace them regularly to prevent choking hazards.
10. Baby Formula
Baby formulas are the next best things after a mother’s breast milk.
Always look for a baby-friendly and safe brand that your little one enjoys.
Must-Have Features:
- Easy to digest.
- Nutrient-rich.
- Suitable for newborns.
Tips for Buying:
- Consult with your pediatrician to choose the right formula for your baby.
Things to Avoid:
- Never use an expired formula.
- Switch brands without consulting a healthcare professional.
Top Brands:
Availability:
- Amazon, Walmart, Target.
Price Range:
- $20-$40.
Safety Tips:
- Ensure compliance with instructions for proper preparation and feeding.
- Start with a small quantity to check allergic reactions.
11. Baby Wipes
Baby wipes are great to clean all the mess.
Always choose unscented chemical-free wipes as they can be less irritating to your baby’s skin.
Must-Have Features:
- Durable, and gentle on the skin.
Tips for Buying:
- Buy wipes with added moisturizers for sensitive skin.
Things to Avoid:
- Wipes with strong fragrances.
Top Brands:
- Huggies pampers.
Availability:
- Amazon, Walmart, Target, Costco.
Price Range:
- $5-$15 per pack.
Safety Tips:
- Keep wipes out of reach of babies to prevent choking hazards.
- Close the packaging properly to avoid drying out.
12. Baby Thermometer
It is always helpful to have baby thermometers in your first aid kit.
There are different types of baby thermometers in the market. Digital thermometers are more baby-friendly.
Must-Have Features:
- Accurate readings.
- Easy to use.
Tips for Buying:
- Consider a digital forehead or ear thermometer for ease of use.
Things to Avoid:
- Thermometers with unreliable readings, and complicated instructions.
Top Brands:
Availability:
- Amazon, Walmart.
Price Range:
- $10-$25 per pack.
Safety Tips:
- Never leave your child unattended while taking their temperature.
- Clean it thoroughly between users.
13. Baby Nail Clippers or Scissors
You need to keep your baby’s fingernails in check and it is important to have the right tools to make the task easier and safer.
Must-Have Features:
- Rounded edges.
- Easy grip.
- Safety guard.
Tips for Buying:
- Look for clippers with built-in magnifiers for better visibility.
- Go for scissors if you’re more comfortable using them.
Things to Avoid:
- Clippers with sharp or pointed edges that can easily cut the baby’s skin.
Top Brands:
Availability:
- Amazon, Walmart, Buy Buy Baby. Target.
Price Range:
- $10-$25.
Safety Tips:
- Trim nails carefully when the baby is calm or asleep.
- Avoid cutting too close to the skin to prevent injury.
14. Baby Swaddle Blankets
Swaddling helps newborns feel secure and promotes better sleep.
Must-Have Features:
- Breathable fabric.
- Lightweight.
- Adjustable size.
Tips for Buying:
- Consider versatile patterns.
- Choose lightweight materials for warmer climates.
Things to Avoid:
- Swaddles that are too tight or restrictive.
- Rough material.
Top Brands:
Availability:
- Amazon, Target.
Price Range:
- $15 – $40 for a pack.
Safety Tips:
- Ensure the swaddle is not covering the baby’s face or restricting their movement.
- Discontinue its use once the baby starts showing signs of rolling over.
15. Baby Nasal Aspirator
A nasal aspirator is essential to help clear up a baby’s stuffy nose and help your little one breathe freely.
Must-Have Features:
- Gentle suction.
- Easy to clean.
- Comfortable for the baby.
Tips for Buying:
- Look for aspirators with disposable filters for hygiene purposes.
- Consider electric options for convenience.
Things to Avoid:
- Aspirators with sharp edges or complicated assembly.
Top Brands:
- Fridababy.
Availability:
- Amazon, Walmart.
Price Range:
- $10 – $30.
Safety Tips:
- Use saline drops to loosen mucus before aspirating.
- Clean the aspirator thoroughly after each use to prevent the growth of bacteria.
16. Baby Bath Towels and Washcloths
You will need soft towels and washcloths to dry your little one.
Hooded towels are warm and cute and prevent water from dripping down their face.
Must-Have Features:
- Soft, absorbent fabric.
- Hooded towel for extra warmth.
Tips for Buying:
- Choose organic cotton towels for sensitive skin.
- Go for darker colors or prints to hide stains.
Things to Avoid:
- Towels with rough textures that can irritate the baby’s skin.
Top Brands:
Availability:
- Amazon, Target, Walmart.
Price Range:
- $10 – $40 for a set.
Safety Tips:
- Ensure the water temperature is comfortable for the baby before wrapping them in a towel.
- Always support their head and neck.
17. Baby Laundry Detergent
Parents must be careful in selecting baby laundry detergent as harmful chemicals can cause skin irritations.
Must-Have Features:
- Soft on baby’s skin.
- Free from harsh chemicals.
Tips for Buying:
- Look for detergents specifically formulated for baby clothes.
- Go for fragrance-free options for sensitive skin.
Things to Avoid:
- Regular detergents with strong fragrances.
Top Brands:
Availability:
- Amazon, Walmart, Target.
Price Range:
- $15 – $35.
Safety Tips:
- Wash baby clothes separately from the rest of the laundry, and rinse them thoroughly to remove any detergent residue.
18. Baby Grooming Kit
It is essential for your baby’s grooming.
Must-Have Features:
Nail clippers, hairbrush, comb.
Tips for Buying:
- Choose a kit with essential grooming tools in a convenient carrying case.
- Buy rounded-tip scissors for safety.
Things to Avoid:
- Kits with poor-quality tools can cause injury.
Top Brands:
- Safety 1st, Summer Infant.
Availability:
- Amazon, Walmart, Buy Buy Baby.
Price Range:
- $15 – $30.
Safety Tips:
- Use grooming tools specifically designed for babies.
- Exercise caution when trimming nails or hair to avoid accidents.
19. Baby Pacifiers
It provides comfort and soothing for fussy babies.
Always look for pacifiers that are designed to support healthy oral development.
Must-Have Features:
- Orthodontic design and BPA-free.
- Easy to clean.
Tips for Buying:
- Start with a few different brands to see which one your baby prefers.
- Choose pacifiers with a shield that is larger than the baby’s mouth to prevent choking.
Things to Avoid:
- Pacifiers with decorative attachments or loose parts.
Top Brands:
- Philips Avent, MAM.
Availability:
- Amazon, Walmart, Target.
Price Range:
- $10 – $20 for a pack.
Safety Tips:
- Inspect pacifiers regularly for signs of wear and tear, and replace them every few months to maintain hygiene.
20. Baby Swing or Bouncer
It sway or vibrate to help soothe your little one. Kindly note that it has minimum and maximum weight limits so make sure you choose as per your baby’s size.
Must-Have Features:
- Multiple swing speeds.
- Soothing vibrations.
- Removable toy bar.
Tips for Buying:
- Considering space limitations and portability.
- Look for models with machine-washable fabric.
Things to Avoid:
- Unstable or flimsy swings, models without safety harnesses.
Top Brands:
- Fisher-Price, 4moms
Availability:
- Amazon, Target, Walmart.
Price Range:
- $60 – $165.
Safety Tips:
- Always use the harness.
- Never leave the baby unattended in the swing or bouncer.
21. Nursing Pillow
A cushion that supports the baby and the mother during breastfeeding. It can reduce the risk of back pain for the mother.
Must-Have Features:
- Firm support.
- Machine-washable cover.
- Soft.
Tips for Buying:
- Choose a pillow that fits your body size and breastfeeding position preferences.
- Consider a waterproof cover for easy cleaning.
Things to Avoid:
- Pillows without proper support or stability.
Top Brands:
Availability:
- Amazon, Buy Buy Baby, Target, Walmart.
Price Range:
- $20 – $50.
Safety Tips:
- Ensure the baby’s head and neck are properly supported during feeding.
- Never leave the baby unattended on the pillow.
22. Baby Toiletries
This is a must to keep good hygiene of your baby.
Must-Have Features:
- Tear-free.
Tips for Buying:
- Start with essential items like baby shampoo, body wash, and lotion.
- Choose products free from harsh chemicals and fragrances.
Things to Avoid:
- Overloading unnecessary products, and using adult toiletries on the baby.
Top Brands:
Availability:
- Amazon, Walmart, Target.
Price Range:
- $10 – $25 per product.
Safety Tips:
- Test products on a small patch of skin for allergies.
- Keep toiletries out of reach of children.
23. Baby Books
Introduce your newborn to the joy of reading with books designed for little ones.
Books with bright colors and engaging textures stimulate your baby’s senses.
Must-Have Features:
- Bright illustrations.
- Durable pages.
- Interactive elements.
Tips for Buying:
- Choose age-appropriate books with simple stories and engaging visuals.
- Consider board books for durability.
Things to Avoid:
- Books with small parts can cause choking hazards.
Top Brands:
Availability:
- Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Book Depository.
Price Range:
- $10 – $25 per book.
Safety Tips:
- Inspect books for any loose parts or sharp edges.
- Supervise reading time to prevent tearing.
24. Baby Toys
Never compromise your baby’s safety for inexpensive toys.
Always consider high-quality toys considering all safety standards.
Must-Have Features:
- Safe materials.
- Age-appropriate.
- Stimulating for the senses.
Tips for Buying:
- Choose toys that encourage developmental milestones like grasping, reaching, and sensory exploration.
- Prioritize quality over quantity.
Things to Avoid:
- Toys with small parts that could pose a choking hazard, are loud or overly stimulating toys.
Top Brands:
- Fisher-Price, Melissa & Doug.
Availability:
- Amazon, Target, Walmart.
Price Range:
- $5 – $30 per toy.
Safety Tips:
- Check for age recommendations on toys.
- Inspect for any signs of wear or damage regularly.
25. Baby First Aid Kit
Always prepare for minor emergencies in advance with a well-stocked infant first aid kit. Include essentials like bandages, pain relievers, ointment, and saline drops.
Must-Have Features:
- Thermometer, bandages, saline drops, nasal aspirator.
Tips for Buying:
- Look for kits specifically designed for infants, and replenish supplies as needed.
Things to Avoid:
- Kits with expired or low-quality items.
Top Brands:
- Safety 1st, The First Years.
Availability:
- Amazon, Walmart.
Price Range:
- $10 – $30.
Safety Tips:
- Keep the kit out of reach of children but easily accessible in case of emergencies.
- Familiarize yourself with basic first aid procedures.
26. Diaper Bag
It will help your outings with your baby more conveniently.
Choose an organized bag with plenty of compartments to store all the essentials of the baby.
Must-Have Features:
- Multiple compartments, insulated bottle pockets, changing pad.
Tips for Buying:
- Choose a bag with adjustable straps for comfort.
Things to Avoid:
- Overpacking the diaper bag.
Top Brands:
Availability:
- Amazon, Buy Buy Baby, Target.
Price Range:
- $30 – $100.
Safety Tips:
- Keep essentials like diapers and wipes easily accessible.
27. Baby Lotion
Must-Have Features:
- Moisturizing.
Tips for Buying:
- Choose a fragrance-free lotion for sensitive skin.
Things to Avoid:
- Lotions containing harsh chemicals.
Top Brands:
- Aveeno Baby, Johnson’s Baby.
Availability:
- Walmart, Amazon.
Price Range:
- $5 – $15.
Safety Tips:
- Test new lotions on a small area of the baby’s skin to check the baby’s skin compatibility.
Conclusion
There is no denying that new babies bring a lot of excitement, happiness, stress, and a lot of work for new parents.
We must be ready to face this lovely challenge with the above-mentioned baby essentials that help you get through those first few weeks.
You will be ready for the newborn baby’s first few weeks after completing this checklist.
Always prioritize safety, and comfort when selecting products for your newborn.
Take the time to research and consider your baby’s specific needs and preferences and enjoy these precious days with your little one.
Kindly let me know in the comments if you get any useful insight, if you have any additional tips, we would love to hear from you.
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