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  • Writer's picturemommynjammies

Newborn Essentials and Baby Must Haves

Updated: Dec 9, 2023

Becoming a first-time parent can be a daunting and overwhelming experience, but with the right products, it can also be a joyous and fulfilling one. Here are some baby registry must haves you should definitely consider.


From the moment you find out you're pregnant to the day you bring your baby home, there are a few newborn essentials that every first-time parent should consider to make the transition as smooth as possible.


There are hundreds of products out there to choose from. I narrowed down for you, the most highly rated baby registry must haves, along with some of the ones that I also use and highly recommend.


newborn essentials

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This blog post might contain affiliate links. Any purchase made through such links will result in small commission (or referral fee) for the author, at absolutely no cost to you. I only recommend products that I personally use and/or genuinely love.


10 Newborn Must Haves

Preparing for the arrival of your newborn is an exciting and joyful time. To help you navigate through the sea of baby products out there, we have curated a list of the top 10 newborn must-haves. Let's dive into the essential items that will make your journey into parenthood a lot smoother.



  1. Infant Car Seat

  2. Diaper Changing Station

  3. Stroller

  4. Baby Carrier

  5. Baby Monitor

  6. Bassinet

  7. Diaper Bag

  8. Baby Bathtub

  9. Baby Bouncer and/or Baby Swing

  10. Diapers and Wipes




5 Bonus Must Have Baby Items

The following bonus list, is not necessary, however it will make a nursery a lot more comfortable and efficient.


  • Nightlight

  • Rocker Chair

  • Nursing Pillow

  • Large Burping Cloths (trust me on this one)

  • Comfortable Changing Table


Other Baby Registry Must Haves

If you decide to register anywhere, these next items are highly recommended to consider. Newborns tend to sleep a lot, otherwise feeding or needing a diaper change.


These items will absolutely serve you not only during the newborn phase, but also in the next months ahead as baby gets more active.


  • Baby Bottles

  • Baby lotion, baby body wash set

  • Breast Pump and breast pads

  • Sterilization Equipment

  • Baby bath towels

  • Baby Thermometer

  • Crib

  • Light Blankets

  • Baby Grooming Set

  • Frida Baby Set

  • 6 Piece Kit for Baby's Nose and Tummy

  • Nose and Ear Gadget


Let's Deep Dive on Some of the Newborn Essentials I've Used:


Baby Carrier


One of the most important items on a first-time mom's list is a good quality baby carrier. Baby carriers allow you to keep your little one close to you while still being able to have your hands free to do other things.


There are a variety of different types of carriers, including wraps, slings, and structured carriers, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs and comfort level. A good carrier will provide support for both you and your baby, and will be easy to adjust and use. Featured below is the Boba Wrap Baby Carrier - Original Stretchy Infant Sling, Perfect for Newborn Babies and Children up to 35 lbs.


newborn essentials


Good Quality Stroller and Car Seat


Another essential item for first-time moms is a good quality stroller. A stroller is a must-have for taking your baby out and about, whether it's for a walk around the neighborhood or a trip to the mall. A good stroller will be sturdy, easy to maneuver, and comfortable for both you and your baby.


Look for features like adjustable handles, adjustable seats, and a good suspension system to ensure a smooth ride for your little one. I personally recommend the Graco Modes Pramette Travel System, Includes Baby Stroller with True Pram Mode, Reversible Seat, One Hand Fold, Extra Storage, Child Tray and SnugRide 35 Infant Car Seat, Ellington, it is very easy to assemble and has multiple capabilities to grow along with your baby.


newborn essentials stroller



Baby Monitor


A baby monitor is also a must-have for first-time moms. A baby monitor allows you to keep an eye on your baby while they sleep, even when you're not in the same room. There are a variety of different types of monitors, including audio-only monitors and video monitors, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs.


Look for features like clear sound and good range, so you can always be aware of what's happening with your little one.


Featured below is the HelloBaby monitor, it is a great option for parents looking for a reliable and feature-rich video baby monitor. It comes with a 5-inch display, pan-tilt-zoom camera, night vision, two-way talk, temperature sensor, 8 lullabies and 1000ft range. It doesn't require WiFi which makes it perfect for elderly parents or grandparents.


The monitor provides a stable, secure and uninterrupted connection, ensuring parents peace of mind and convenience. The night vision capability and temperature sensor are great features that provide additional safety and comfort for your baby.


baby monitor

Good Quality Breast Pump


A good quality breast pump is also an essential item for first-time moms. Breastfeeding can be challenging, especially for new mothers, and a good breast pump can help make the process easier. Look for a pump that is comfortable to use, easy to clean, and has adjustable settings. A manual or electric pump will provide the flexibility you need to express milk on the go.


The Momcozy S12 Pro Wearable Breast Pump is a great product for breastfeeding mothers. It is a double, hands-free pump that has a comfortable double-sealed flange and 3 modes & 9 levels of suction. This electric pump is portable, so you can use it on the go, and it has a smart display for easy use.


It also comes with a 24mm flange size, and a pack of 2, which means you have a spare pump in case you need it. The hands-free feature allows you to multitask while pumping, making the process more efficient and convenient.


The comfortable flange and adjustable suction levels ensure a comfortable pumping experience. This is a great product for busy moms who need to pump on the go.


wearable breast pumps


Diapers and Wipes


Diapers and wipes are also a must-have for first-time parents. Wether you choose to cloth diaper or not, diapers and wipes are essential for keeping your baby clean and dry, and it's important to have a good supply on hand.


Look for diapers that fit well and have a good absorbency, and wipes that are gentle on your baby's delicate skin. If you are familiar with my blog, you know that I love cloth diapering, and ALVA BABY cloth diapers are my favorite brand. Here is a full review to check them out.


cloth diapers Alva baby


Functional Baby Changing Station


A functional baby changing station is an essential component of every parent's nursery or caregiving area. It provides a dedicated and safe space for changing diapers, ensuring convenience and hygiene. Having a designated changing station helps to streamline the diaper-changing process, allowing parents to efficiently attend to their baby's needs.


Adding storage compartments and organizers, offers easy access to diapers, wipes, creams, and other baby essentials, eliminating the need to search for supplies in the midst of a messy situation. A well-equipped changing station also promotes proper ergonomics, protecting both the baby and caregiver's back and reducing the risk of strains or injuries.


This is how I put together my Diaper Changing Table with Drawers and I've successfully used it so far with my 2 little ones. Let me know your thoughts!



cloth diaper friendly changing table


Baby Bathtub


A good quality baby bathtub is also an essential item for first-time parents. A baby bathtub will make it easy to give your little one a bath, without having to worry about them slipping or getting too cold. Look for a bathtub that is easy to clean and has a non-slip bottom to keep your baby safe.



newborn essentials


Baby Grooming Kit


Other important items for first-time moms include a good quality baby thermometer, baby nail clippers, and a baby hairbrush. These items will help you keep your baby healthy and comfortable, and will make it easy to take care of your little one.


What I love from the Baby Healthcare and Grooming Kit, 24 in 1 Baby Electric Nail Trimmer Set is that it comes with an electrical Nail trimmer, for when the baby is still a new born. It also comes with the nail trimmer for when baby gets older, so you get both options.


newborn essentials grooming kit

Baby Swing, is a Must Have Must Try


For this next item, some babies either will love it or hate it. For us, a baby swing is undoubtedly a newborn must-have, and here's why. As a new parent, you'll soon realize that soothing and comforting your little one can be a challenging task.


That's where a baby swing comes to the rescue. With its gentle rocking motion, a baby swing mimics the feeling of being cradled in your arms, providing a soothing and calming effect on your baby.


It can lull your newborn to sleep, making naptime and bedtime a breeze. Moreover, a baby swing can also provide much-needed entertainment and stimulation for your little one, with its built-in toys and melodies. It offers you a hands-free option to tend to other tasks while keeping your baby content and secure. A baby swing is a true lifesaver for any new parent seeking moments of tranquility and joy.


Note: Our baby daughter was always on our sight when napping on swing and for no longer than 30 min to avoid any risk for SIDS.




newborn essentials baby swing



Oogiebear - Nose and Ear Gadget. Safe, Easy Nasal Booger and Ear Wax Remover for Newborns, Infants and Toddlers.


The Oogiebear Nose and Ear Gadget is a game-changer for parents dealing with nasal boogers and earwax in their little ones. This safe and easy-to-use tool provides gentle and effective removal, ensuring clear nasal passages and clean ears.


Designed specifically for newborns, infants, and toddlers, it offers peace of mind and convenience for parents. With its soft, flexible tips and ergonomic design, the Oogiebear is a must-have for every parent's toolkit when it comes to maintaining their baby's hygiene and comfort.



newborn essentials oogiebear


FridaBaby The NoseFrida Filter Bundle, Windi GasPasser & 3in1 Picker | Baby Healthcare Essentials


This is literally a game changer! As my Mom would state: I can't believe baby technology has advanced so much.  


The FridaBaby NoseFrida Filter Bundle is a lifesaver for parents when it comes to baby healthcare essentials. With the NoseFrida, you can easily and hygienically clear your baby's congested nose, providing instant relief.


The Windi GasPasser is a gentle solution for relieving gas discomfort, while the 3in1 Picker helps remove stubborn boogers. This comprehensive bundle offers a complete toolkit for addressing common health issues, making it a must-have for every parent seeking efficient and safe solutions for their little one's well-being.



newborn essentials Frida


Little Remedies New Baby Essentials Kit, 6 Piece Kit for Baby's Nose and Tummy


Must Have People! All babies will have gas and be colicky at some point or another, especially newborns. I literally swear by this brand, it also works within the next 15 min of using it.


I always included this Essential Kits on my Baby Essentials Registry list. What sets this kit apart is its commitment to natural ingredients, devoid of artificial additives. It's a sigh of relief for parents who prioritize gentle and effective care.


Compact and convenient, the Little Remedies New Baby Essentials Kit is an absolute must-have for any parent looking for reliable remedies to keep their baby comfortable and content.




newborn essentials little remedies


Bonus Baby Essentials Tip: Same Color Baby Mittens and Socks


There is nothing more frustrating than trying to find a mitten or sock pair! I know I love to combine my babies outfits and I want everything to match. When I was pregnant I had purchased very cute baby gloves but all with cute different patterns, well, I was wrong! I was not able to find any pair at all, or would spend valuable time putting them together.

I highly recommend you to buy all same color baby gloves and Mittens. I bought these 12 pairs at Amazon. You can find them all white or white and blue as well. I will add the link on the picture in case you want to take a peak. 


This made a big difference on saving time not only at laundry time but when needing gloves in general. I put all of them all mixed in a little basket and was wonderful! Same I did with socks.



newborn essentials mittens



Baby Bouncer is a Definitely on the Baby Essentials List


You will absolutely find this item in almost everyone's must have lists throughout the internet and there is a reason why.


I have to say that for the first 2 months of my baby's life, she she was just a little potato, sleeping all day. I almost returned it back! But let me tell you; when she hit her 3 month old mark, she loved it!


With over 11K reviews on Amazon, the Bright Starts Safari Fun 3-Point Harness Vibrating Baby Bouncer is a delightful addition to any nursery. With its secure 3-point harness, it ensures your baby's safety while providing a comfortable and soothing experience. The vibrating feature helps calm and relax your little one, while the toy bar with engaging toys adds an element of fun and stimulation. Price is also very affordable! This bouncer is perfect for entertaining and comforting your baby, making it a baby essential must-have.



newborn essentials baby bouncer


Baby Essentials FAQs


What are the most needed baby items?

The items below will be needed Day 1 of baby arrival. You can also pack some these items inside your hospital bag for baby.

  • Diapers and wipes

  • Diaper Bag

  • Crib/Bassinet

  • Infant Car Seat

  • Light Blankets

  • Burp Clothes

  • Baby Onesies (with double zipper if possible)

  • Baby Monitor

  • Feeding Baby Items (Bottles and formula, or breast pumps)


Looking for More Baby Stuff?


Let me know what great baby essentials I missed, anything that you will absolutely recommend? I would love to also hear from other Mamas!






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