Best Baby Product Must Haves for New Moms
As a mom of five children, I have learned over the years what the “must have” products are for new moms. Take it from a seasoned mom, you may not need as much as you think!
With so much baby gear out information out there, it’s hard to know what you truly need.
In this post I am going to break down the most important things you will need. Besides the obvious essentials of diapers (disposable or cloth diapers) and baby wipes, here is my top recommendation of the best baby product must haves for new moms.
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List of Best Baby Product Must Haves for New Moms
Car Seat
If you have the baby in the hospital, the hospital will not let you leave without having your carseat properly installed. If you are not confident in this process, head over to your local fire department and the firemen will happily install your carseat for you.
Stroller
This purchase goes along with the car seat. I would recommend getting an infant car seat that snaps in and out of the car. Purchase a stroller and the correct attachment so the carseat can snap right into the stroller.
Bassinet or Crib
This is personal preference. I always like to start out with a small bassinet, mini crib, or a bedside sleeper in those early weeks. When the baby outgrows the bedside sleeper we then move to the big crib.
Rocking Chair
I spent countless hours in my rocker recliner chair with my babies. Some nights I would just fall asleep in it. A comfortable rocking chair is worth the investment, especially during that first year. I truly is one of the best things on this list!
Boppy Nursing Pillow
If you are nursing, a boppy will make nursing so much more comfortable for you. The added support is an essential item for a first-time mom (or 5th time) mom.
Nursing Cover
This is a fun one. There are so many cute and comfortable nursing covers that convert into carseat covers!
Muslin Swaddle blankets
For those first weeks a swaddle blanket will be a game changer. The baby is use to being snug in mamas belly and I find that a good swaddle creates a similar comfort. Sleep Sacks are also a good idea and can help the baby stay cozy and warm through the night.
White Noise Machine
I cannot tell you enough how wonderful a sound machine! This will cover up noise and you can easily take it with you if traveling or napping at grandma and grandpas home. The sounds also add a level of comfort and familiarity for the baby if used consistently.
Diaper Bag
This can be a diaper bag, or just a favorite back pack to carry all of your essentials. You can check out my post about Three Best Go-To Bag Styles for Active Moms.
Baby Carrier
Baby carrier brands and styles are also a personal preference. There are wraps, front carriers or back carriers. I wore my Ergo Baby Carrier with all my babies and have gotten years of use out of it. That particular baby carrier is comfortable, supportive, easy to put on, can be worn front or back, and even has an option for an infant insert.
Baby Swing
A baby swing is a safe place to put baby in while you are catching up on dishes! All of my babies loved their swing. Two things I look for in a swing is music and a mobile. There are also baby bouncer or a motion machine that move your baby around instead of swing them.
High Chair
This is not something you need to invest in right away. Your baby won’t be sitting in high chairs for a while, but it is an essential product for when your baby starts sitting up and eating solids.
Tips and Freebies
Did you know that when you create a baby registry on Amazon, they will send you a free welcome box? Sign up here to become an Amazon Prime member to get started!
Create a baby registry for all the items on your list. Remember to check out consignment stores, thrift stores, and garage sales for many of the items on your list.
Do not buy a carseat used. There is no way of knowing if the car seat has been in an accident or if it is expired (yes, believe it or not, car seats do expire!).
More Mom essentials
Diaper rash cream – This is always good to have on hand.
Nipple Cream – If you are nursing, make sure to pack this in your hospital bag!
Breast Pads – Purchase disposable or washable cloth breast pads. I found that the washable cloth breast pads were comfortable.
Baby Nail Clippers – The perfect size for baby and nice to have on hand.
One More Tip
Many insurance companies will give you a free breast pump. This is a great program to take advantage of and can save you several hundred dollars! Even if you are planning on nursing, I recommend contacting your insurance company to see if this is an option for you.
Point of View
As you have already figured out, there are a lot of options for the best products. I hope this post helped narrow it down to only the essentials. There may be a few things on the list that I left out that may not be an essential for me, but is an essential for you. For some families, a baby monitor is essential, but it wasn’t for us. As time goes on, you will get to know your baby’s needs and what works for your family.
Packing your hospital bag? Read my Ultimate Hospital Delivery Bag Checklist for Moms post here.
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LOVE all the great gear!! New Grandbaby on the way & this makes it easy to shop!🤩
Congratulations on the new grandbaby!
Great list and excellent product suggestions! I look forward to your next post!
I just had a baby a month and a half ago, so I’m so glad I found this resource! Thanks Lori!
Congratulations on your new sweet baby!