10 Essential Baby Items Every New Mom Can’t Live Without

Children bring color to our lives, and it’s essential to be well-prepared to welcome a new baby by getting all the essential baby items needed to provide the best care and attention.

Since choosing these items can be a challenge for new mothers, what are the necessary items for bathing? What about travel gear? And what are the essentials for baby skincare and haircare? What do you need for nail care? And much more… That’s why we decided to gather the most important essential baby items in this article to help expectant mothers.

Essential Baby Items from Day One to Age Two:

1. A Suitable Crib Next to the Mother’s Bed

It’s important to prepare a suitable sleeping space for the baby, preferably right next to the mother’s bed to make night feeding easier and to help the baby sleep peacefully with the mother close by.

Choose a bassinet that attaches to your bed to ensure the baby’s comfort and make it easier to handle nighttime needs. It should have raised sides on the other edges away from your bed to prevent the baby from falling during sleep. Also, regularly change the bedding and use soft cotton sheets to avoid skin irritation.

2. Diapers and Diaper-Changing Essentials

Diapers are among the most essential baby items. Choose a high-quality, cotton-like type, and start with the smallest size to fit the newborn, adjusting the size as your baby grows. The correct size helps prevent leaks caused by overly tight or loose diapers.

You’ll also need gentle, alcohol- and paraben-free wet wipes for diaper changes when you’re outside or unable to wash the baby with water.

Another important item during diaper changes is a soothing cream with zinc to protect the baby from diaper rash.

Change your baby’s diaper immediately after bowel movements, and don’t leave a wet diaper on for more than 6–8 hours to avoid irritation from moisture.

3. Skincare Essentials

Your baby’s skin is highly sensitive and requires special care. Use a baby-safe body wash or shower gel made from natural ingredients, and apply a moisturizing cream or oil suitable for infants. Look for products with chamomile extract, olive oil, or coconut oil, and make sure they are free from perfumes and harsh chemicals.

4. Haircare Essentials

A baby-safe shampoo is essential to protect your baby’s scalp and natural oils and to prevent cradle cap.

Choose shampoos free from strong chemicals like sulfates. You can find natural baby shampoos that maintain scalp health and cleanliness.

5. Breastfeeding and Bottle-Feeding Supplies

Make sure you have breastfeeding essentials like a nursing cover and breast pump if you’re a working mother or need to be away from your baby. You’ll also need baby bottles and a sterilizer.

6. Appropriate Baby Clothing

Baby clothes that touch the skin directly should be soft and cotton-based to prevent allergic reactions. The quantity and type of clothing should match the season—more for winter and less for summer—to avoid illnesses or skin irritation. Make sure the baby is dressed appropriately in air-conditioned rooms.

Keep baby clothes clean and change them regularly. Sterilize clothes if your baby is sick.

A cotton bib is also essential to protect clothing during feeding times and prevent food or milk from staining your baby’s clothes.

7. Weather-Appropriate Blankets

Choosing a suitable blanket to wrap and warm your baby is essential, especially in the first four months. Go for soft cotton fabrics that match the surrounding temperature to avoid overheating or underheating.

8. Bathing Supplies

Prepare a gentle baby body wash, shampoo, and a small baby bathtub. Use a soft sponge to clean the baby during baths and ensure the baby is safe from slipping or falling.

9. Medical Monitoring Supplies

A thermometer is one of the most essential baby items to check for fever or temperature changes. Have basic medications on hand for initial symptoms until you can see a doctor—fever reducers and pain relievers with paracetamol, bruise ointments for minor injuries, wound care items, disinfectants, cotton pads, and colic relief drops (ask your doctor for suitable options).

10. Travel and Outdoor Essentials

Some essential baby items are used when leaving the house, including:

• Stroller:

Useful for park visits and outings so the baby can observe surroundings and to assist during shopping.

• Car seat:

Ensures your baby’s safety during car rides, whether you’re alone or with others.

• Baby bag:

A must-have that includes enough diapers, clothing changes, bottles, formula (if bottle-feeding), essential medications, and wet wipes to last throughout your trip.

When Should I Start Preparing for My Essential baby items? Are There Any Tips for Shopping?

You can find out all about this in the next article.