7 Essentials Every New Parent Should Have To Make Their Lives Easier

New parents have the task of figuring out exactly what baby gear to put on their shower registry as if keeping up with doctor’s appointments, staying healthy, and designing a Pinterest-worthy nursery isn’t enough.

Part of the challenge stems from too much advice circulating about what you need to buy. Like anything on the Internet, not everyone can agree. And that’s okay. What works for one parent may not work for another. 

Let us cut out some of the noise and focus on seven categories of essential products almost everyone can agree on. The best thing about a registry is that someone else does the work of buying the items. Once you figure out which of these you want to add to your list, sit back, relax, and take care of yourself.

1. Baby clothes

This may be an obvious suggestion, but buying the right baby clothes is a bit of an art. 

First, you need to take sizing into account. Many items come in size ranges like 0-3 months that may not fit all babies in that age range. Bigger babies may grow out of newborn clothes quickly. Plus, different kinds of clothes exist. Yes, get those cute looks for all the photo-worthy moments, but don’t forget to pick up sleepers, leggings, and onesies. Get a variety of sizes, just in case.

If you’re asking yourself, “How many baby clothes do I need?” a good rule of thumb is to have one of every type of outfit per day of the week. Try to have enough clean clothing for three full changes each day. If you live in a chilly climate, make sure to stock up on coats, hats, mittens, and booties.

Looking for a bonus tip from parents who’ve done this before? Looks for items with zippers for easy diaper changes.

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2. Diapers

Even if your friends built you a diaper cake at your baby shower and left you with boxes upon boxes of this item, it never hurts to have more, whether they’re cloth diapers or disposable. Be sure to have the best overnight baby diapers on hand, no matter what. 

Aside from diapers themselves, you should consider picking up “diapering” accessories. This includes baby wipes, a diaper pail, a changing table or pad, diaper rash cream, and diaper bag. Do you have a changing pad? If you haven’t had that shower yet, add these baby items to the registry now.

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3. Carriers 

Some of the most important essentials for a baby's first year are carriers and transporters of all types. 

Whether you walk a lot because you live in a city and it’s practical or simply enjoy a suburban stroll, a great carriage is key. All parents also likely want the best baby stroller they can get their hands on. If you plan to move your new baby around in the car, for example, you’ll need a safe infant car seat that’s an appropriate size. Think about your lifestyle, where the baby needs to go, and what carriers you’ll need to make that happen

Some parents prefer to keep their hands free and infant close and warm with a baby carrier, like a wrap, sling, or similar.

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4. Bedding 

There are many differing opinions on the right bedding for newborns, and we recommend talking to your doctor and doing your own research to find an option you feel comfortable with. 

Some of the most popular options include a bassinet, which keeps the infant close but not in the parents’ bed or a crib with a mattress pad. 

In recent times, one of the most popular baby essentials for the first three months has become inflatable, portable mattress situated on a bed. This product keeps babies from rolling and allows them to remain close to parents at all times.

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5. Tech 

One of the great things about raising kids in the contemporary age is that parents can use technology as a helping hand. 

Monitors, for example, are tried-and-true baby essentials that help give new parents a sense of comfort as their baby sleeps and they catch up on work (or rest) in other parts of the home. Nightlights are also helpful, especially for diaper changes in the dark. 

Technologically savvy parents could consider a white noise or other soothing sound machine or a baby monitor that connects to an app on your phone.

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6. Breastfeeding must-haves 

However you decide to feed your newborn baby, you’ll likely need some, if not most, of the following items. 

If you plan to breastfeed, nursing bras and covers help you connect quickly with your baby for feeding anytime, anywhere. These are a must-have for first time moms. Experts also recommend breast pumps, even if you plan to be with your baby all the time, because sometimes you’ll need to pump even when the infant isn’t hungry. So, new moms: don’t forget breast milk bags, which are perfect for storing the liquid for later use. 

Whether you are breast or bottle feeding, be sure to pick up baby bottles and brushes, and add a bottle warmer to your baby registry. You’ll want to keep plenty of baby formula on hand. And, don’t forget the bibs and burp cloths, which are adorable but handy accessories in the event of spit-up or other accidents. 

You might even want to ask your friends to gift you a helpful nursing pillow. These plush wraparounds make sitting with your infant for long periods of feeding and snuggling much more comfortable, whether you’re breastfeeding or bottlefeeding.

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7. Bath-time essentials 

When it comes time to bathe your little one, certain products can help the process go much more smoothly. 

First off, be sure to pick up baby shampoo or soap made just for babies. Baby shampoo is usually gentler on a baby’s skin. If sensitive skin is a concern, ask your medical professional about fragrance- and allergen-free options. 

Secondly, consider a baby bathtub. This small plastic object does a lot of work towards making bath time simpler and safer. Make sure you have some baby towels and even a tiny robe on hand for when it comes time to dry off.

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This list is a good start, but it’s only that. Consult with your parent friends and medical professionals about other essential items you may be leaving off your list. First aid kits, rubbing alcohol, and Benadryl, for example, are great to have on hand, as are special sanitizing products intended for use on baby items. High chairs, pacifiers, and a crib might seem obvious, but it’s easy to overlook the details when you’re sleep deprived.

Everyone’s pregnancy-to-motherhood journey is distinct, so be sure to get advice from the most reliable sources possible and tailor it to your needs.  

If it’s the middle of the night and you’ve run out of diapers, stay calm. Gopuff is your new-parenting sidekick. They will make the run to the store for you and let you do the important work of taking care of your baby.