Obtaining gear and essentials for the new baby can be overwhelming and confusing, especially if it is your first time. New parents may don’t have a clue what to buy or where to start. Shop smart, and don’t just buy everything that the baby registry suggests. Think and weigh if the item is essential to the baby. Make sure that the things you bought will make your job as a parent a whole lot easier. Listen to the suggestions of the experts or other parents because it might help you put a list.
Baby Care Basics
Pacifiers
BIBS BPA-Free Natural Rubber Baby Pacifier
The baby pacifier helps in self-soothing by sucking the pacifier since it resembles the shape and softness of the mother's breast. Do not forget to sterilize the pacifier first before giving it to the baby. It can be helpful to parents since it provides comfort to the baby, therefore, less crying.
Nasal Aspirator
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Braun Nasal Aspirator
Nasal aspirator helps in clearing the nasal passages when the baby has a stuffy nose. This aspirator has an electric suction with two types of excellent tips for both toddlers and infants. It has an ergonomic design that allows suction from different angles.
Thermometer
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Safety 1st 3-in0 Nursery Thermometer
The thermometer can measure the temperature through oral, rectal, or underarm. It has an accurate
reading within 30 seconds. It is comfortable to use because it has a flexible tip. It is cheap, durable, accurate, and calibrated easily. Knowing the temperature of your baby is important so you can monitor it and pass the information to the pediatrician.
Nursery
Baby Crib
A crib is essential to have since your baby needs a safe place to sleep. Parents can feel comfortable since the baby has a safe sleeping environment. When purchasing a crib, always remember that it should have a firm mattress covered by a fitted sheet. Parents will not be worried about sudden infant death syndrome. Do not put many items besides the baby since this is one reason for suffocating and sudden infant death. Try to put the baby beside you or near you to fully monitor him or her. Check if there are defects in baby cribs because they can cause injuries or, worst, death. [1]
ACRABROS Safety Baby Crib Tent Bed Canopy
This crib is practical to use because it prevents the baby from climbing out of bed. You will never be worried if the baby falls from the crib since it comes with a canopy and cover that are stable and durable. Plus, it has a net that keeps out insects away from the baby. This crib is convenient for both the baby and parent because it makes the baby safe.
Changing Table
A changing table is convenient because it keeps your nappy-changing supplies in one place. The primary benefit of having a changing table is adjusting the height that is comfortable for you. Changing a baby can put a considerable strain on your back and knees since you will be changing several times a day.
EGREE Baby Changing Table Portable Folding Diaper Changing Station with Wheels
This changing table is adjustable that makes it convenient to the parents. It can reduce the risk of having knee and back pain due to bending and kneeling. It is also sturdy and long-lasting to use. You can quickly move it because it has built-in wheels. The fabrics are safe and skin-friendly. The changing table can be easily folded thus saving up more space.
Humidifier
Humidifiers have two types: warm mist humidifier and cool mist humidifier. Pediatricians recommend a warm mist humidifier since they emit warm air that can kill germs and viruses. Warm air also helps the baby breathe by minimizing the mucus build-up and opening the respiratory passages. Cool mist humidifiers, on the other hand, releases cool or room temperature air. Doctors will only recommend a cool-mist humidifier when the baby is suffering from croup. Croup is a common illness for children that causes hoarseness. Treatment with moist air is highly recommended as a home treatment and is widely used.[2]
Vaporizer
Vaporize creates warm mist by boiling the water and releasing the air as steam. Vaporizers and humidifiers are somewhat similar, but a vaporizer is better for people that have indoor allergens. It creates a mist that has fewer contaminants than a humidifier.
Baby Rocker
Owning a baby rocker can help the baby sleep easily. These are designed to have the same sensation as if they are still in their mother’s arms. It also comes with toys that the baby can enjoy. The sway movements of the baby rocker resemble the feeling inside before the baby was born. Your kid is perfectly safe since it comes with a safety belt.
Dresser
Sorbus Dresser with 7 Drawers
This dresser is suitable for nursery. The design of this dresser is kid-friendly. You can organize the baby supplies or clothes since it has seven drawers.
Hamper
Munchkin Laundry Hamper with Lid
You can store the baby's laundry in it. It is lightweight and has a large capacity. Very convenient and easy to use since you can fold it flat when you store it. You can move and lift it easily because it has soft padded handles.
Baby Monitor
Having a baby monitor can reduce the anxiety and stress of the parents. This baby monitor helps the parents monitor the baby easily. It also avoids the risk of waking up the baby.
Motorola Connect40 by Hubble Connected Video Baby Monitor
It comes with a subscription that helps parents track the growth and development of the baby. It has a mic you can use to communicate. The camera allows you to capture a bright video at night, so you won't have to open up the lights that can wake up the baby. This is good for monitoring the baby with health issues.
Breastfeeding Gears
Electric Breast Pump
This product is convenient for mothers that are working. This breast pump is also beneficial if you have baby twins. Consider these things when purchasing a breast pump: double pumps, easy to use, clean, assemble, and speed.
Electric Breast Pump with Strong Suction Power and Pain-Free
This double electric pump provides comfort, therefore, lessens the pain. It also aids in unblocking the mammary glands of the breast. It has an LCD touch screen that displays the screen even at night. The pump creates a low noise so it cannot disturb the baby. You can bring it anywhere with you. Since it is a double pump, you can pump milk simultaneously, giving less time on pumping.
Breastmilk Storage Bags
Nursing Pillow
Nursing Bras
There is a huge difference between a regular bra and a nursing bra. The nursing bra does not have an underwire that causes aching and swelling of your breast. This is good for the health of both the mother and baby because it can reduce the risk of having mastitis. In a study conducted by Fetherston, at least fifty-one percent have mastitis within the first two postpartum weeks. [3]
Hands Free Pumping Bra
It can be used when you are breastfeeding, pumping or both. This nursing bra can hold bottles securely and comfortably. This also serves as privacy when you are breastfeeding. Overall, it gives you comfort, good for the health, and convenient.
Nursing Pads
There are five nursing pads: disposable, reusable, silicone, homemade, and hydrogel pads. The best option is reusable nursing pads.
Bamboobies Nursing Pads for Breastfeeding
This nursing pad is great for newborn nursing and heavy leaking. It is reusable and washable. This is the most cost-effective among the other types of nursing pads. It is environmentally friendly because you can use it again instead of the disposable ones. Buying a few pairs can be convenient.
Cotton Bibs
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Organic Baby Bibs for Boys & Girls
This cotton bib is super absorbent and made purely from organic cotton. It covers the baby's torso and chest at all times. The size of the bib is adjustable according to the size of the baby's neck. Bibs do not cost too much and protect the clothes from getting stained. It also protects the baby from getting rashes caused by food pills.
Burp Cloths
Nipple Cream
This is helpful when the nipples are dry, sore, and cracked. This is safe for both mother and baby since it is purely organic.
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Lansinoh Lanolin Nipple Cream for Breastfeeding
This is clinically tested and safe to use. Lanolin can protect sore nipples, and it relieves pain. This is the most recommended nipple cream by doctors because it is made naturally. You won't have to remove the nipple cream during breastfeeding since it is safe for the baby.
The use of lanolin showed a better result than any other creams in the study conducted in Brazil. It lessens the pain of the nipples when using lanolin cream. [4]
Formula Feeding Gear
Baby bottles with newborn nipples
Bottle Sterilizer
Sterilization of the baby’s bottle is necessary for your baby’s health. It can reduce the risk of having infections coming from bacterias and germs.[5] It is a top priority when it comes to the health of the baby. In the United Kingdom, a statistic was conducted in 2010 that the primary method for sterilizing baby bottles is using a sterilizer.
Dry Formula Dispenser
Philips Avent Powder Formula Dispenser and Snack Cup
This formula dispenser can hold 3 to 260 milliliter of powder. This is convenient since you will not worry about if you counted the right amount of formula, especially at night when you are still half asleep.
Bottle Dying Rack
nanobebe Slim Drying Rack
This product is handy because you can dry baby bottles whatever their size. It comes with an adjustable peg and a dry mat. A drying rack is essential since it prevents the bottle to be exposed to mold and mildew, which is not safe for the baby.
Bottle Cleaning Brush
OXO Tot Bottle Brush with Nipple Cleaner and Stand
The bristles of the brush are gentle for cleaning and scrubbing. The neck is flexible, which fits any size bottles. It comes with a silicone nipple cleaner to clean the tight spaces and for the bottle nipples, breast pump parts and sippy cup.
Insulated Cooler
Solid-food Feeding Items
High Chair
Infant Feeding Spoon
Infant Bowl
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Baby Bowls with Guaranteed Suction
This baby bowl is perfect because it has a bottom suction that can prevent spilling of foods. This means it is not messy and less cleaning time for the parents.
Baby Food Mill
Baby Food Maker
This food maker is multifunctional. It can steam, blend, heat, stir and preserve the food. It has smart functions that can keep the food temperature optimal, which is good for the baby's health. This is worth the money because it is all in one.
Bathing Necessities
Bath Seat
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Summer My Bath Seat with Toys
The bath seat serves as a support for the baby while taking a bath. It can be set-up, remove, and store easily without hassle. It has suction cups on both sides to provide security and stability. It also comes with toys so the baby can have fun with it.
Baby Comb and Brush Set
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Safety 1st Easy Grip Brush and Comb
The brush have soft bristles. Easy to handle for both the parent and baby. The comb has two types: thick for wet hair and thin for dry hair. Combing the hair of the baby can prevent having tangles.
Bath Thermometer
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Doli Yearning Baby Bath Thermometer with Room Temperature
The bath thermometer is waterproof, which can measure the temperature of the room and water. This will automatically turn off after reading the temperature. Since the skin of the baby is delicate, it is safe to measure the temperature first.
Faucet Guard
Baby Clothing
Baby Hangers
Diapering Gear
Diaper Pail
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Dekor Classic Hands-Free Diaper Pail
This diaper pail is cost-effective and easy to handle. You can put the dirty diapers into the diaper pail. A diaper pail is different from regular trash cans because they take away the foul smell coming from the dirty diapers.
Changing Pad Cover
Grooming Gear
Nail Set
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Baby Nail Filer and Baby Nail Clippers with Light Set
This a set you can use to groom the nails of your baby. It comes with a soft nail trimmer, which is safe to use. It has a built-in front light and a whisper-quiet motor, so you can easily trim the nails even at night while the baby is sleeping. The set also has an electric nail file that even adults can use. Trimming the nails is important to prevent having wounds due to scratching.
Babyproofing
Childproofing can make the house much safer for the baby. It can prevent the baby from having injuries. Try to check your place on the baby’s perspective to know what to babyproof.
Gates for Stairs
Cabinet, Drawer and Furniture Latches
20 Pack Magnetic Cabinet Locks Baby Proofing
Install the magnetic locks in the kitchen, bathroom, pantry room, bedroom, and storage area. The baby will now be safe from the dangerous chemicals and tools. It is easy to install without drilling a hole on the cabinets and drawers.
Outlet Covers
Corner Guards
Toilet Lock
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Toilet Lock Child Safety
It serves as a lock for the toilet. There is no hassle when installing the lock. The baby cannot easily open the toilet lid and reduces the risk of accidents.
Baby Travel Gears
Car Seat
In 2016, Alexander Kunst surveyed to determine if there is brand awareness for car seats. It shows that 58% of the United States respondents know the baby car seat brand Evenflo.
Evenflo EveryStage All-in-One Car Seat
This is a reclining car seat and has an EasyClick Latch system which gives tight installation. It includes a rear-facing harness, a forward-facing harness, and a belt-positioning booster for the baby's safety. This car seat can be used for up to 10 years. Having a car seat is beneficial to the baby because it can prevent common car injuries like head and spinal injuries.
Baby Stroller
Baby Carrier
Diaper Bag
SunShades for Cars
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Car Sun Shades for Side and Rear Window (4 Pack)
This sunshades protect children from UV Sun rays. The sunshades can be placed quickly and easily on windows. Children can be comfortable traveling because they are protected from the heat of the sun.
Other Baby Necessities
Infant Seat
Fisher-Price Sit-Me-Up Floor Seat
The infant seat can support the baby in an upright position. The seats are soft, cozy, and comfortable for the baby. It comes with toys so the baby can have fun while sitting. This infant seat is completely recyclable.
Heavy Blankets to Lay on the Floor
Burt's Bees Baby – Reversible Blanket
This heavy blanket is durable and soft. This is comfortable for the baby since they will start crawling and walking. It prevents the baby to have injuries.
Teether
Teething Toys (4 Pack)
The baby teether is made up of silicone that is safe to use. This is designed to soothe, massage, and reduce discomfort. The baby can develop good oral hygiene because the teether massages the teeth and gums.
Basket for Toys
Silanto Grey Storage Baskets Bins
This basket is a perfect storage for the toys of the baby. It can be easily lifted and transported because it has two rope handles on both sides. This basket can also store other things like blankets, towels, shoes, clothes and other things.
Final Thoughts
Being ready is part of being a parent. You will need things to provide for the necessities of your baby. It can be expensive, but it is worth it because it can provide your baby’s comfort and safety. Start purchasing the essentials one by one if the baby is still not born. Having this essential can lessen the parents’ stress and tiredness, which means more time for bonding. It will give joy and fulfillment to the baby and parents. Try to put a list for your baby essentials. Since some of the items are expensive, try to ask your family, friends, and colleagues to give them as a gift to the baby shower, or they can hand over some secondhand items.
[1] Mummalaneni, Vaibhav, et al. “Social media analytics for quality surveillance and safety hazard detection in baby cribs.” Safety science 104 (2018): 260-268.
[2] Moore, Michael, and Paul Little. “Humidified air inhalation for treating croup: a systematic review and meta-analysis.” Family practice 24.4 (2007): 295-301.
[3] Fetherston, C. “Characteristics of lactation mastitis in a Western Australian cohort.” Breastfeeding review: professional publication of the Nursing Mothers’ Association of Australia 5.2 (1997): 5-11. Fetherston, C. “Characteristics of lactation mastitis in a Western Australian cohort.” Breastfeeding review: professional publication of the Nursing Mothers’ Association of Australia 5.2 (1997): 5-11.
[4] Mariani Neto, Corintio, et al. “Comparative study of the use of HPA Lanolin and breast milk for treating pain associated with nipple trauma.” Revista Brasileira de Ginecologia e Obstetrícia 40.11 (2018): 664-672.
[5] Towle, D., et al. “Baby bottle steam sterilizers for disinfecting home nebulizers inoculated with non-tuberculous mycobacteria.” Journal of Hospital Infection 92.3 (2016): 222-225.
