Your ultimate baby essentials checklist
We know you’re excited for your new baby. We’d also guess you’re pretty overwhelmed and wondering just how much money you’re going to spend (been there, done that). The good news? You can manage that overwhelm (and your expenses) if you know what you really need.
Spoiler alert: You don’t need everything social media insists you need.
In the beginning, your baby basically needs to be able to safely eat, sleep, move, bathe, and poop (there’s a lot of poop). So, let’s start with the baby essentials, and then we’ll explore some things that are “nice to have” but you can likely live without.
On this checklist:
- Your essentials for feeding, sleeping, moving, bathing, and pooping
- Nice-to-haves and unexpected MVPs
- The sh*t you don’t need (so you can mark it off your list)
- Bonus: postpartum recovery and education essentials
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How did we decide what’s essential vs. what’s “nice to have?”
For an item to be deemed essential:
- At least one of the four parents building this list must have personally used it (and used it a lot)
- It has to provide serious value by either making your life or the baby’s life easier (or, in a lot of cases, both!)
Here are those parents:
We also reached out to our Fathercraft community to make sure we didn’t miss anything. Trust us, you’re in good hands.
Heads up: This baby essentials list takes about 15 minutes to read from start to finish. In addition to the basic essentials, we have sections for “nice to haves” and things you definitely don’t need. Plus, we give you some reasons why certain things are considered essential plus tips for using them. Don’t have that kind of time? We get it. Bookmark this page and come back to it as needed.
Baby feeding essentials
Your essentials will look different depending on if you plan to breastfeed, formula feed, or some combination of both.
No matter how you choose to feed your baby:
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Bottles
If breastfeeding:
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2-3 nursing bras
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Milk storage
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Breast pads
If formula feeding or combo feeding:
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Formula
Unexpected MVP: grass drying rack
If you or your partner is planning to breastfeed, you’ll need a few items to make sure you can remove and store your milk when you’re away from your baby. And, trust Kristan and Brittnee on this one, you will need a good nipple balm, especially in the first few days. We like the “Calm Your Nip” balm from Honest or the Sore Nipple set from frida, which includes balm and saline spray.
And no matter how you feed your baby, you’ll likely need bottles. We recommend investing in a few 4oz bottles that work for you and baby. Our unexpected MVP is the Boon “grass” drying rack, which makes it easy to set small bottle parts out to dry.
There are a few more things that can make feeding easier…
Nice-to-haves when feeding baby:
Bottle warmer
A definite nice-to-have is the bottle warmer. It’s made it super easy to warm his bottle quickly and we can just set it and then get him ready and all that fun stuff while it is warming vs. having to stand under the sink.
– Matthew B., dad of 1
We like the Momcozy bottle warmer, which makes it super easy to set it and forget it (for approximately six minutes). Customize your settings based on how much milk you’re warming and the material of your bottle—then, Momcozy does the rest for you.
Wearable pump
We’ve tried the Willow 360, Willow Go, and the Elvie here at Fathercraft. One of our writers (Kristan) currently uses the Willow Go as her only pump, and she loves it. We’ve found wearable pumps can efficiently collect milk while you’re up on and on the go, which comes in handy if you’re working, adventuring, or have older children (so… working and adventuring!).
Babybrezza Formula Pro Advanced
It’s a Keurig for babies! Seriously, if you’re going to be formula feeding, the Babybrezza Formula Advanced Pro makes mixing and warming bottles a lot easier. Like… perfectly mixed and warmed bottle in less than 20 seconds kind of easy. The newer models can even be controlled from your phone.
Sterilizer
You’re going to spend a lot of time washing and sterilizing baby things. It’s perfectly fine to use boiling water to sterilize, but having a fancy machine that does it for you comes in handy, especially if you’re pumping. Our Fathercraft community likes this Clean Steam sterilizer from Dr. Brown’s.
Nursing tanks/shirts
You don’t need a whole new wardrobe to nurse your baby, but having 2-3 nursing tanks and 1-2 nursing shirts on hand can make public outings easier.
Nursing cover (if preferred)
Fun fact: You (or your partner) have the legal right to breastfeed, covered or uncovered, in all fifty states. So, you don’t need this, but depending on personal preference, you may want it. The Cocoon from We Are Amma is popular here at Fathercraft (both Kristan and Brittnee purchased it on their own dime and used it), because it’s breathable, lightweight, and honestly pretty cute. Plus, it doubles as a nice baby blanket.
What you don’t need to feed a baby:
Baby “food” or rice cereal
…At least, not for the first 4-6 months. And when you introduce food to your baby (around the six-month mark), you may opt for baby-led weaning, where your baby essentially eats modified versions of whatever you eat. This is ultimately up to you, but you can at least rest easy knowing you don’t need to stock up on liquified peas for another few months. 
Baby sleep essentials
“Something we used just as much with our second [child] as we did with our first was a good swaddle”
— Abigail C., Mom of 2
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2-3 velcro swaddles
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Bassinet
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2-3 bassinet sheets
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Crib
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2-3 crib sheets
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Sound machine
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3-5 pacifiers (if you plan to use)
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6-8 pairs of zipper pajamas
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2-3 sleep slacks
Unexpected MVP: blackout curtains
For the first few months, your baby will likely sleep next to your bed in a bassinet at night (the AAP recommends room sharing for the first six months up to one year). But you might start practicing daytime naps in the crib. The key? A solid sleep environment and comfortable clothing.
Between the four of us, most of our babies enjoyed being swaddled in a dark room (thanks, blackout curtains!) with white noise. Why? The womb is basically dark, cramped, and noisy… so we’re going for those vibes. We recommend using velcro swaddles (we like this five-second-swaddle from Happiest Baby), because babies can easily break out of the muslin swaddling blankets.
You’ll also want a monitor to keep an eye on them—we’ve listed our favorites here. We’re really big fans of the Nanit, but you can opt for something much more basic (and affordable).
Nice-to-have’s for baby sleep:
“Smart” bassinet or crib
Your bassinet doesn’t have to be smart, but we’ve tested both the Snoo and Cradlewise here at Fathercraft, and we got better sleep with both. The Cradlewise actually converts into a crib, so your investment goes a bit further.
Transitional sleep slack
Once your baby starts to show signs of rolling, you have to stop swaddling them (usually between three and six months). If your baby is missing the oh-so-comforting feeling of not being able to move their arms, a transitional sleep sack or something like the Merlin suit can help.
Smart monitor
Like the bassinet, your monitor doesn’t have to be smart. But if it is, it may alert you if your baby’s face is covered (see the Cubo AI+). We especially like the Harbor, which transmits video to your phone and an included parent unit.
Vitals monitoring device
Some people say vitals monitoring gives them peace of mind—others say it gives them anxiety. We’ve tried the Owlet DreamSock Duo, which alerts you if your baby’s oxygen levels are low, or if their pulse rate is too high/low. If you’re someone who wants the alerts (even if you have to deal with a few false alarms), the FDA-approved Owlet may be for you.
What you don’t need for baby sleep
Crib bumpers
Your parents (or grandparents) might tell you to get crib bumpers, but they’re dangerous and no longer recommended. If they question you, send them here.
Blankets & loveys
They can be cute nursery decor, but you don’t need them for sleep. The AAP recommends keeping the baby’s sleeping surface totally clear for the first year. For now, arrange those stuffies into a cute scene on your baby’s dresser. And don’t worry—by the time they’re two, your child will have a “where is my kid” amount of stuffies in their bed.
Diapering & hygiene essentials
“Would highly recommend diapers. And you can quote me on that”
— Matthew B., Dad of 1
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Diapers (pro tip: you won’t be in newborn-sized diapers very long… ask people to get you a variety of size 1-5 diapers)
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Wipes
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Diaper cream
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3-4 Towels
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3-4 Wash cloths
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Gentle baby shampoo & body wash
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Gentle baby lotion
Unexpected MVP: diaper cream applicator
You don’t need much to keep your baby diapered and clean. For the most part, you’ll use diapers (obviously), wipes, and a gentle shampoo/body wash combo. We include diaper cream as an essential, because your baby will get (several) diaper rashes. Plus, you can use diaper cream anywhere, including the places where they’ll get rashes from all the adorable rolls (pits, thighs, neck, etc.). The MVP? A diaper cream brush that spreads the cream for you and easily wipes clean. Both Brittnee and Kristan insist they would not go without this little $14.99 bundle.
Nice-to-haves for cleaning & diapering
Baby tub
Co-founder Paul is a proud member of the never-owned-a-baby-tub club. He swears by a $5 bath mat and the sink. On the other hand, Kristan finds her kitchen sink “icky” even on its cleanest day, and she keeps trying to sneak the baby tub onto the essentials checklist.
Whether or not a baby tub is essential to you, is your call. But Kristan really loves the 4-in-1 Friday tub.
Diaper changing pad
You’re going to be shocked by the places you’re willing to change a diaper. But it still might be nice to have a place where you’re supposed to change the diaper.
Our community really loves the Keekaroo peanut changer.
Pros: No need for a cover, easy to wipe clean (in case you aren’t familiar with diaper changing pads, most require a sheet that doesn’t stay clean for more than a day… that’s a lot of laundry)
Cons: It’s $180
Is it worth it? Quite possibly, especially if you’re going to have multiple children and somehow still have almost $200 to spare on a poop pad.
Bathtime pitcher
A little pitcher to help you wash that tiny head of hair can help you keep water out of your baby’s eyes. A cheaper alternative? A cup from your kitchen cabinet.
2-3 hooded towels
These are great for making sure your baby’s head doesn’t get too cold after a bath. Plus, they’re pretty dang cute. But babies tend to outgrow them quickly, and some people claim regular towels are easier.
Diaper Genie
You can throw your diapers in a trash can, but a diaper genie really does help conceal the odor for a bit longer. One of our authors (Kristan) didn’t use a diaper genie with her first, but now has one for her second. She believes it’s worth it.
What you don’t need for cleaning & diapering
Wipe warmer
“There’s no better way to start turning your baby into the next Veruca Salt than to buy them a wipe warmer” — Cofounder Paul
Do wipe warmers feel a bit… over the top? Maybe (at least, according to Paul). But just as importantly, they just don’t really work, because they dry out the wipes.
“Peepee teepee”
Please no.
Special baby detergents
Some of the baby detergents marketed for babies actually contain fragrances that can still irritate your baby’s skin. If you’re worried about it, skip the Dreft and use a “free & gentle” detergent instead (like this fragrance-free detergent from Tide).
Essentials for moving your baby
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Car seat
Unexpected MVP(s): car mirror + stroller fan
Leaving the house for the first time with a new baby feels daunting as hell (second only to leaving the hospital with your baby). But you only need a few essentials to make it happen—a properly installed car seat, a stroller, and a bag to store some of the other baby essentials (like the Fathercraft diaper bag!) on this list. We highly recommend hanging a shatter-proof mirror on your backseat, so that you can see your rear-facing bundle of joy. And if you’re having a summer baby? We’re 92.5% sure you’ll end up buying a stroller fan at some point.
Nice-to-haves for moving your baby
Fancy-pants stroller
All you need your stroller to do is safely move your child from Point A to Point B. But having a few bells and whistles, plus a smoother ride can make things easier than you might imagine. Fancy-pants strollers can grow with your family, re-configure in various ways, and keep your kids happier with fewer jostles and bumps. At Fathercraft, we recommend the Uppababy Vista as the ultimate luxury ride.
Wrap or buckle carrier
You can carry your baby around, but having a wrap or baby carrier frees up your hands. Plus, babies like the feeling of being snug against their caregiver. We use our carriers out and about and around the home. Bonus: wearing your baby on a walk is great exercise.
What you don’t need
Baby knee pads
Yes, they exist. No, you don’t need them. No, that won’t stop your Great Aunt Susan from purchasing them for you (unless you send her this list of things you actually need).
Playtime essentials
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Board books
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You!
Unexpected MVP: The silicone ladle you have in your kitchen
The truth? Babies don’t need a lot to stay entertained. They mostly need a loving caregiver (that’s you and your partner) who will sing, talk, and make silly faces. In fact, before you stock up on toys, we actually recommend purchasing a few books. Starting a reading habit early (like… from birth) can help develop your baby’s early language and literacy skills.
Still itching to buy some toys? Check your kitchen drawers. Choose carefully, but it never ceases to amaze us how babies gravitate toward ordinary household items over fancy, expensive toys.
Nice to haves for playtime with baby
High-contrast toys
If you’re thinking, ok we have the books and the kitchen ladle, but we still want some baby toys, high-contrast toys are a great place to start. In the early weeks, your baby won’t see color very well, but they’ll be able to spot (and will love) the contrast between black and white. If you want to take the guess work out of baby-toy-buying, check out Lovevery—a subscription service that sends you developmentally appropriate toys every few months.
Things to grab
Around 2-3 months, your baby will start trying to grab things. Playmats with dangling toys offer a great opportunity to practice those skills.
Essentials for birth and beyond
You and your partner will also have needs in those first months. As much as we’d love to, we can’t stock your fridge or supply you with mental stability. But we can help you prepare for two things: recovery and education.
- Heads up: We wrote a third trimester checklist to help you prep for birth and beyond.
Recovery essentials
Note: Your hospital may supply many of these essentials
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Mesh underwear
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Pads
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Peri bottle
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Tuck’s pads
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Ice packs and/or “padscicles”
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Benzodyne spray
Unexpected MVP: water bottle with straw
Regardless of delivery method, the birthing parent should expect to bleed for the first 2-6 weeks postpartum. These essentials will make healing easier (and are often supplied by your hospital). Bonus: get a water bottle with a straw. If you’re breastfeeding, you need at least 100oz of water each day. And even if you’re not, hydrating helps you heal, reduces postpartum swelling, and reduces the impact of sleep deprivation.
Recovery nice-to-haves
Frida mom mesh underwear
Some women feel like the hospital mesh underwear leave something to be desired. The Frida mom mesh undewear feel a bit more comfortable and secure.
Comfy lounge sets
You’ll be spending a lot of time in pajamas. Comfy lounge sets can help you feel a bit more human. They even make special loungesets for breastfeeding!
Postpartum cart
Setting up a cart with postpartum, diapering, and feeding essentials can help keep everything central to you and the baby. You don’t need this, but it’s helpful in the early days when you might be trying to minimize how much you’re moving around postpartum.
Essentials for dads
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Hospital stay supplies (e.g., snacks, entertainment, chargers)
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Education
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Community
Unexpected MVP: Comfy blanket and pillow
Your baby and the mother will likely be (and should be) the top priorities during birth and beyond. But dads have to put on their own oxygen masks, too. When dads show up for themselves, they show up better for their families—starting with the actual birth. Dads should plan to stock up a hospital bag with things they need, too. Of course, no matter how uncomfortable your hospital stay as a dad might feel, it pales in comparison to birthing a child. But there’s no harm in packing a solid pillow and blanket for both partners. Dads should also plan on investing in their own parenting eduction. Shameless plug: Check out the Fathercraft course for dads-to-be. If you’ve made it this far in the checklist, just think about how much you might learn from our course…
Finally, dads should prioritize finding community and building a support system before birth and throughout infancy. You’ll want other dads who get it to lean on in those early days of sleep deprivation and generally figuring it all out.
Nice to haves for dads
A dad diaper bag
Let us offer this piece of advice: If you’re a dad, take charge of the diaper bag. Keep it stocked, organized, and ready to go. It’s a huge mental lift off your healing, potentially nursing, definitely sleep-deprived partner (if you’re not a dad… we won’t judge if you send him this).
There’s no shame in the ultra-stylish diaper bag game, but we just so happen to make a diaper bag that was designed by dads, for dads. It’s durable and stain-resistant, which means you can use it for years (and honestly, we still think it’s pretty stylish).
More education essentials
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CPR/first aid class
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1-2 parenting resources
We highly recommend taking a CPR and first aid class before having your baby. Hopefully, you never need the information, but we’re fans of controlling what you can. In other words, we tend to rest easier knowing we can respond accurately in an emergency.
Plus, we recommend picking up 1-2 more parenting resources. If it’s not our course, grab a book or check out Tinyhood, which offers a wide range of classes addressing everything from pregnancy to toddlerhood and beyond.
Parenting education nice-to-haves
A course specific to your situation
Planning a med-free birth (godspeed to you)? Hoping to breastfeed? Formula feed? Need more info on the epidural? Know you’re having a c-section? There are lots of online courses out there from experts that address these specific situations.
Now what?
Start budgeting.
Just kidding. Sort of (we actually wrote about this).
In all seriousness, we’d recommend making a plan to get these essentials before your due date and adding some of the nice-to-haves to your registry.
And we’re here to help along the way! We’re Fathercraft, and we write reviews to help out parents like you. Ready for some more info? Check out our free checklists, our product reviews, or our courses to get started.
