New parents, rejoice! This is the ultimate guide to baby essentials for the first three months. In this blog post, we will cover everything you need in order to care for your baby during those early months. From diapers and wipes to baby carriers and sleep sacks, we have you covered. We’ll also share some helpful tips on how to make life with a newborn a little bit easier. So sit back, relax, and let us help you get ready for baby!
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Must-Have Baby Essentials You’ll Need in the First 3 Months
Registering for a newborn can be downright overwhelming. It can be so hard to determine what you actually need when your baby arrives. But don’t worry, we’re here to help! Below is a list of baby essentials that every parent should have in the first three months.
These baby items will help you get through the early days with your baby and make life a little bit easier.
We’ve also included our Top 10 List that include a few items that are splurges that we absolutely love but aren’t necessarily essential. Let’s get started!
Must-Have Baby Essentials: Clothing
One of the most important things you’ll need for your baby in the first few months is baby clothes. Newborns grow quickly, so it’s important to have plenty of clothing on hand in not only newborn sizes but also in 3 month sizes. You’ll want to stock up on sleepers, onesies, hats, and bibs. It’s also a good idea to have some swaddle blankets on hand. Here’s what we recommend…
Sleepers
When it comes to baby clothes, its a good rule of thumb is to have one sleeper for every two days. I recommend purchasing sleepers that have a zipper near the feet for easier diaper changes, and avoiding sleepers with a million snaps. I love Kyte Baby sleepers because they’re extremely soft, wash well, and are excellent quality.
Onesies
You’ll need at least a dozen onesies in the early months. I recommend kimona t-shirts or baby onesies with long sleeves that have built in mittens to protect baby from scratching themselves and you…ouch! Baby clothes can be so fun to buy, but try to stick to these basics that can be mixed and matched and are extremely cozy and comfortable for baby.
Swaddle Blankets
Every baby needs swaddle blankets! Newborns love to be swaddled because it makes them feel secure and helps calm them down. Swaddle blankets are also great for keeping baby warm and soothing your sleeping baby. I recommend having at least three swaddle blankets on hand.
Cooper Pearl cotton blankets are soft and stretchy and make for the perfect swaddle blanket, plus they come in so many amazing patterns and colors. If baby is born in warmer months, I’d recommend muslin swaddle blankets that are breathable but will still keep baby nice and secure.
Shop Copper Pearl Swaddle Blankets Here
Hats
Babies lose a lot of heat through their heads, so it’s important to keep them well-covered. Hats are essential in the winter months, but they can also be used in the summer to protect baby’s skin from the sun. Copper Pearl cotton hats are not only adorable, they are also stretchy and easy to put on a newborn’s delicate head.
Bibs
Babies drool and spit up a lot in the first few months, so it’s a good idea to have plenty of bibs on hand. Once again I love Copper Pearl bandana bibs since they are large enough to keep baby clean and dry, and soft enough to have right up against baby’s neck and cheeks.
Must-Have Baby Essentials: Bathing
Bathing and grooming your baby can be a lot of fun, but it can also be a bit intimidating. It’s important to have a safe place to bathe your baby, and invest in baby soaps that are clean and non-irritating for baby’s sensitive skin.
It’s also important to note that in the first few months, you’ll only need to bathe your baby 2-3 times per week. Many parents opt to choose 2 days in the week for bath day and save the third for when baby gets really messy (AKA poop explosion).
Baby Bathtub
You can use the sink as baby’s first bathtub, and I’d recommend using this cozy sink baby bath from Frida Baby to keep baby safe and from slipping, plus it’s made with silicone and is easier to clean and disinfect.
You can also opt for a baby tub. I recommend getting a baby tub with a built in hammock so baby can recline comfortably while being washed since newborns don’t have much muscle control especially over their head and need that added support.
Remember: baby’s first few baths at home with likely be sponge baths as we typically don’t recommend submerging baby in a tub of water until after the umbilical cord falls off and is healed.
Baby Washcloths & Towels
You’ll also need baby washcloths to clean your baby’s skin and hair. I recommend buying baby washcloths because they are softer on baby’s sensitive skin. And, you can also buy a hooded towel to keep dry after bathtime, but it isn’t necessarily essential. You can also use a soft swaddle blanket as well to dry baby off and keep him swaddled for warmth.
Baby Shampoo & Body Wash
You’ll need baby shampoo and body wash to clean your baby, and I say look no further than Tubby Todd Bath Company. I recommend using a natural baby shampoo/wash like this one, which is free from harsh chemicals and sulfates.
Baby Lotion
After baby’s bath, you can apply baby lotion to their skin to help with dryness. I recommend using a natural baby lotion like the Dream Cream or All Over Ointment by Tubby Todd, which is made with organic ingredients, is free from harmful chemicals, and smells heavenly.
Shop Tubby Todd Baby Lotions Here
Nail File
Baby’s nails grow very fast and can scratch baby if they’re not trimmed. I recommend a this electric baby nail file because it’s safer than scissors and easier to use and it has 13,000 4+ star reviews on Amazon!
Must-Have Baby Essentials: Health & Wellness
Every new parents worst nightmare is having a sick baby. Below are some essential products to have at home to help keep your baby healthy and safe.
Thermometer
A thermometer is an essential tool for checking your baby’s temperature. I recommend getting a digital thermometer that you can hold near baby’s ear or forehead so you can get an accurate reading quickly without disturbing your sleeping baby. But, the FridaBaby thermometer can give you accurate armpit, oral, or even rectal temps too if needed and would be a great item to have on hand.
Bulb Syringe
A bulb syringe is a must-have for clearing baby’s nose and mouth of mucus congestion. I recommend this one because it’s similar to what we use in the hospital. It’s good to keep bulb syringes in several places around the house where you feed or change baby as they can be especially spitty in the early days.
Nose Frida
The Nose Frida is a nasal aspirator that helps to clear baby’s congestion, and is a product that new parents swear buy. I recommend it because it’s easy to use, is super effective at clearing baby’s nasal passages, and doesn’t cause baby any discomfort. The Nose Frida may look like a crazy contraption, but will be your best friend if your baby ever catches a cold or respiratory virus.
Pacifier
A pacifier can help soothe baby and calm them down. Babies are born with a reflux to want to suck. It helps comfort them. Stock up on pacifiers if you discover your baby really like them (not all babies do). I recommend choosing a pacifier that is made from natural materials, like silicone. Our favorites are the Cutie Pat Pacifiers from Ryan & Rose.
Teething Rings
Teething rings are a great way to help relieve baby’s teething pain. I recommend teethers like this one because it has multiple textures that baby can chew on and is made from natural rubber. It also makes a great first baby toy that baby can grab and hold onto.
First Aid Kit
A first aid kit is an essential baby care item. I recommend getting a baby-specific first aid kit that’s filled with all the baby products you’ll need in case of an emergency. You may even want to register for a few so you can one at home, one in the car, one in the stroller, etc.
Wellements Medicine
Wellements baby medicine is a great way to get baby the medications and vitamins that baby may need in the first few months. I recommend the Oh Baby! Bundle which includes baby products you may need in the first 6 months of baby’s life. This bundle includes everything from Gripe Water to aid in digestion and ease gas, to probiotics and multi-vitamins baby needs, to tooth oil to ease teething pain.
Gas Drops
Gas drops are an essential baby product because baby’s digestive system is still developing. I recommend using the Gripe Water from Wellements, which is safe for baby and doesn’t contain harsh chemicals or dyes.
Must-Have Baby Essentials: Diapering
Diapering baby can be a challenge, but there are essential baby products that make it easier. Below are some of my must-have baby diapering items.
Diaper Pail
A diaper pail is a must-have for keeping baby’s room smelling fresh. I recommend this one because it has a built in deodorizer and can hold up to 30 diapers.
Changing Pad
A changing pad is an essential item for baby’s nursery. I recommend this changing pad because it has a waterproof, wipe-clean surface, fits perfectly on top of baby’s dresser or changing table, and can even help you keep track of baby’s weight.
Diapers
You’ll need plenty of diapers for the first few months, especially if you’re planning to use disposable diapers. I recommend stock up on a good quality brand like Hello Bello or Honest Co. in several sizes especially if you’re not planning on using cloth diapers. Yep, cloth diapers are back and better than ever, but disposable diapers have also made several advances as well.
Wipes
Of course you’ll also need plenty of baby wipes to clean up those messes. I recommend these baby wipes as they’re made with mostly water and don’t contain harsh chemicals or fragrances that may irritate baby’s skin.
Diaper Rash Cream
Diaper rashes are a common problem in babies, so it’s important to have a good quality diaper rash cream on hand. I recommend using this diaper rash cream by Tubby Todd, one of our favorite baby products brands, because it’s super effective at treating diaper rash and doesn’t contain any harmful chemicals.
A&D Ointment
A&D ointment is another great staple to have near your changing station and will help prevent diaper rash and soothe baby’s irritated skin. You can apply every diaper change if you like to hopefully avoid an irritation or rash on that delicate area.
Diaper Bag
A diaper bag is essential for baby’s first few months because it allows you to carry everything baby needs while on-the-go, including extra diapers and wipes, a change of clothes and bottles with formula or breast milk. I recommend getting one that has multiple pockets so you can organize baby’s stuff easily. I love the chunky knit sweater design on this diaper bag.
Baby Feeding Essentials
Figuring out what items you need for feeding baby can be a challenge. There seems to be endless options to choose from. Below are some of my must-have baby feeding essentials that will make feeding your baby much easier.
Bottles
Babies need lots of bottles even if you’re planning on breastfeeding. I recommend starting with a few different types of baby bottles and then finding out which ones work best for your baby. This ultimate bottle sampler from BabyList is a great place to start and the perfect addition to your baby registry.
Bottle Brush
A bottle brush is essential for cleaning baby’s bottles and nipples after every feeding. I recommend getting this one because it’s narrow enough to get into all the nooks and crannies of the bottles and nipples to make sure they’re as clean as can be.
Bottle Drying Rack
A bottle drying rack is another essential baby product. I recommend getting this one because it has plenty of surface area to dry your bottles and looks clean and organized on the kitchen counter.
Bottle Warmer
A bottle warmer warms baby’s milk to the right temperature for feeding. I love the Baby’s Brew portable bottle warmer for at home and on the go. It’s also a digital warmer that allows you to choose the perfect temp for your baby which helps preserve nutrients particularly in breast milk.
Breast Pump
A breast pump is another essential item you’ll need in the first three months especially if you plan to breastfeed. Not only will a breast pump allow you to pump milk for baby so others can assist with feeding and you can perhaps get out of the house for a bit. But, a pump also helps if baby is having feeding difficulties and you get engorged or have a blocked duct. Most breast pumps are also covered by insurance with a doctor’s prescription so be sure to ask your doctor for a script.
Formula
Formula is a nice thing to have on hand with a brand new baby, even if you plan to breastfeed. Sometimes it can take a few days for your breastmilk to come in, and sometimes baby just need some supplementation until you get the hang of breastfeeding. Whether you plan to breastfeed or bottle feed, I recommend the Bobbie baby formula, which has all the nutrients baby needs to grow and develop properly and is made with utmost care and standards.
Burp Cloths
Babies often spit up during or after feeding, so it’s important to have plenty of burp cloths on hand. I recommend these burp cloths, because they’re gentle on baby’s sensitive skin and dry quickly without causing irritation or rashes.
Nursing Cover
If you’re nursing baby, it’s a good idea to have a nursing cover on hand for times when you want to breastfeed in public and want some privacy. I love the Copper Pearl nursing covers that also double as a car seat cover. 2 for the price of 1 is always in a win-win when it comes to baby gear.
Nipple Pads
If you’re breastfeeding baby, nipple pads will help protect your sensitive nipples from rubbing inside your bra and catch any breastmilk that may leak in between feedings. I recommend these organic cotton nipple pads that can actually be washed and reused.
Nipple Ointment
Nipple ointment is another must-have baby feeding item if you’re breastfeeding. I’d recommend getting these and storing them in the fridge so they’re extra soothing, and I’d recommend stocking up on this cream that will help your nipples heal from any cracking or splitting that may occur especially during those early days of breastfeeding.
Nursing Pillow
If you’re planning to nurse baby, a nursing pillow is great for keeping baby in the proper position while feeding. I recommend getting baby-specific nursing pillows like a Boppy or a My Breast Friend because they’re soft and gentle on baby’s skin and designed to cradle baby safely during feedings.
Must-Have Baby Essentials: Sleeping
Sleep is a hot commodity when you have a newborn. Here are some essential items to help baby (and you!) get some sleep in those first few months.
Bassinet or Crib
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that your baby sleep in your room, especially during the first few months of life. A bassinet is the perfect solution because it allows baby to sleep comfortably next to you without having to worry about baby’s safety. Once you feel comfortable, you can transition baby into their own room and into a crib.
Crib Mattress
A crib mattress is an essential baby item you’ll need in the first 3 months especially if you plan to transition baby to their nursery for bedtime or trial naps in the crib to get baby used to their crib. I recommend the Newton Baby Mattress as it’s completely breathable which gives peace of mind and helps you prevent SIDS. And, it’s also completely washable just in case baby has a blow out or two in the night.
Crib Sheets
Crib sheets are another essential baby item for baby’s first few months. I recommend getting a set of lightweight sheets that will be comfortable against baby’s skin and wash up easily. If you opt for the Newton Baby Mattress, some parents opt to not put a crib sheet on that mattress and have baby sleep directly on the mattress cover until baby is able to roll over, since the main benefit of that mattress is that baby can breathe through it if they were to accidently roll over.
Sleepsack
A sleepsack is a great baby sleeping item because it keeps baby warm and cozy without having to use blankets which can be dangerous for baby. I recommend these sleepsacks because they’re made of the softest cotton and come in a variety of sizes for your little one. If baby is having an especially difficult time sleeping you can try one of these weighted sleepsacks which some parent swear by.
Baby Merlin’s Magic Sleepsuit
If you’re looking for a baby item that is worth the splurge, I would definitely recommend the Baby Merlin’s Magic Sleepsuit. This sleepsuit will help baby to sleep through the night by simulating the feeling of being swaddled, and it comes in different sizes so it can be used from birth until baby is able to roll over!
Owlet Socket
The owlet baby sock is a baby sleeping item that I highly recommend because it helps monitor baby’s heart rate and oxygen levels while they’re sleeping. The sock will alert you on your smart phone or a device you can place near your bed if baby’s blood oxygen level or heart rate drops giving you time to intervene if needed. This baby item just may save your baby’s life and bring peace of mind to anxious new parents.
Monitor
A baby monitor is another item you’ll likely need for baby as most new parents like to use a baby monitor to see how their baby is sleeping without going into the nursery and disturbing them.
Noise Machine
A baby noise machine is an essential baby sleeping item because it helps baby fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer by creating soothing noises that mimic what it sounds like inside the womb. We highly recommend the Nest Hatch sound machine.
Must-Have Baby Essentials: Playing
Playing is an important part of baby’s development, and although your newborn won’t be doing much play it’s important to have a few things to entertain baby so you can take a few minutes for yourself. Below are some of my must-have baby playing items.
Baby Swing
A baby swing is a great baby playing item because it helps calm down fussy babies and reduce crying by rocking them back and forth gently while they’re sitting in the swing. I recommend getting a baby swing like this one because it has multiple speeds and settings to choose from that you can control from an app on your phone.
Baby Play Mat
A baby play mat is a baby playing item that I highly recommend this one from Lovevery because it allows baby to explore their environment while they’re sitting or laying down on the mat, includes baby-specific toys attached to the mat, and can turn into a little tent for playtime when baby is older. The best part about having a baby gym is that baby can play independently by exploring different textures and sounds while you get a few minutes to yourself.
Baby Toys
Babies love to play with toys! It’s important to have baby-specific baby toys on hand so baby can explore the world around them through touch, sight and sound.
Sophie Giraffe
Sophie Giraffe is a baby playing item that I highly recommend because it’s soft and flexible which allows baby to chew on it. Every baby needs a Sophie. It’s just a fact.
Loveevery Play Kit
The Loveevery play kit is another great baby playing item that I highly recommend because it comes with a variety of different Montessori-inspired activities for baby to do based on their age and development. The toys are high quality as well. This play kit subscription will take the guess work out of what to do with your baby all day long.
Board Books
Board books provide baby with an early introduction to reading. I recommend getting baby-specific board books like these ones because they have bright colors and pictures like this starter library from Babylist.
Bouncer Seat
A baby bouncer seat is an essential baby playing item because it provides baby with a safe place to sit while they play and explore their surroundings. The Baby Bjorn bouncer comes with removable toys that baby can play with while they’re sitting in the seat, which is great for keeping baby occupied when you need them to be still.
Must-Have Baby Essentials: On The Go
When you’re out and about with baby, it’s important to have the right baby essentials with you so baby can be comfortable and happy and safe. Below are some of my must-have items for on-the-go babies.
Diaper Bag
A diaper bag is an essential item for on-the-go babies and allows you to carry baby’s supplies and other necessities with ease. I recommend getting a diaper bag like this one because it has multiple pockets to store all of baby’s items, plus it comes with a changing pad so you can change baby wherever you are!
Stroller
A stroller is another essential item for baby that may be an investment piece. I recommend getting a stroller that can grow with your family, especially if you plan to have more than one baby. The UppaBaby Vista is perfect for families with one, two, or even three children. But, if you’re looking for a less expensive option, check out the Mockingbird strollers that also extend to add a second seat if needed and are a 1/3 of the price.
Car Seat
An infant car seat is another investment piece that you’ll definitely need for baby in the first 3 months. I recommend getting an infant car seat that is compatible with your stroller and clicks right into place so you don’t have to take your new baby out of the car seat if they’re sleeping. And I also recommend paying attention to the weight of the car seat as well as the weight limit that baby can go up too. It’s also a good idea to make sure you have enough space in your car for the seat to be backward facing without touching the seats in front of it. For more on car seat safety, click here.
Car Seat Cover
A baby car seat cover can protect baby from the sun and keep him nice and warm when outside, and they can also minimize germs or the admirations of strangers that may not be welcomed especially in those first few months. My favorite infant car seat covers are made by Copper Pearl, the same company that makes my favorite burp cloths, and they are made with the same breathable organic cotton.
Baby Shusher
A portable sound machine just may be a god-send when on the go with a fussy baby. This Baby Shusher by FridaBaby can clip right on the car seat and soothe baby while on the go with white noise. It’s an essential accessory to have handy in your diaper bag.
Baby Carrier
Sometimes it’s just plain had to set baby down and let’s be honest, we want to soak up all the baby snuggles we can too, right? A baby carrier or wrap like the Sollybaby Wrap is the perfect way to keep baby close and calm but keep your hands free to do things around the house or brush your teeth.
Top 10 Baby Splurges I’d Recommend
The following items are essential for the first 3 months, but are worth the splurge if they’ll make your life a bit easier. Some are keepsake and gift ideas as well if family or friends are asking for gift ideas. Here’s my Top Baby Splurges….
1. Snoo Bassinet
The Snoo Bassinet was designed by world-renowned baby sleep expert Dr. Harvey Karp who also wrote the bestseller “Happiest Baby on the Block”. This bassinet responds to baby by gently swaying and shushing with white noise to help calm baby and get him to sleep longer which is life saving to super tired parents. If the price is a bit to steep for your budget, check Facebook Marketplace for a second-hand bassinet or check the Snoo website for rental opportunities.
2. Dock-A-Tot
If you’re looking for a baby item that is worth the splurge, I would definitely recommend the Dock-A-Tot. This baby lounger will give baby a cozy space to play or nap (while you’re nearby). It can also be a safer sleep option while on the go. (I do not recommend placing a Dock-A-Tot inside a bassinet or crib or allowing baby to sleep in it without supervision.)
3. Baby Brezza Formula Pro
Formula feeding mamas simply love the Baby Brezza Formula Pro machine. It’s like a Keurig for babies. It stores your powder formula and will make a bottle the size you select in a matter of minutes heated to the optimal temperture for baby without you having to lift a finger, well, other than to push the start button. It’s a lifesavor for those late night feedings.
4. Snuggle Me Organic
The Snuggle Me Organic is another baby lounger that just may be worth the splurge for your family. This once again gives baby a cozy space to play or nap but I don’t recommend using this in your bassinet or crib or without supervision. It comes in so many beautiful colors and is made of the softest organic cotton.
5. Elvie Breast Pump
Planning to breastfeed and have to head back to work? Or maybe you just simply want an easier hands-free way to pump on the go? The Elvie breast pump can help you discreetly pump and store you milk while out with your girlfriends, back at the office, or even while you’re driving. Long gone are the days of being tied to a cord in the wall. The Elvie pump gives you some freedom back and is certainly worth the splurge.
6. Beaba Babycook
If you’re looking for a baby item that is worth the splurge, I would definitely recommend the Babycook. This baby food maker can cook and puree baby’s food in minutes. This item may not be essential in the first 3 months since baby won’t be eating solids for some time, but it may be a nice additional to your baby registry especially if you plan to make your own baby food.
7. Beaba Air Purifier
The Beaba air purifier is definitely a splurge but well worth it to clean and disinfect the air inside your home. Place it in an area where you spend the majority of your time and it will clean 99.97% of viruses, pollutants, and allergens from the air inside your home.
8. Wonderfold Wagon
The Wonderful Wagon is another great splurge, especially if you already have older children and were considering purchasing a double stroller. This wagon can seat 2-4 children comfortably and has several accessories and attachments to make adventuring with baby and toddlers a breeze. I especially love the UV canopy and the cooler bag with UV light technology to disinfect toys, phones, you name it while on the go!
9. Fawn Diaper Bag
Fawn Designs diaper bags have been designed to be stylish and functional, plus they come with a changing pad and a variety of different pockets so you can always find what you need! It having a stylish diaper bag is on your wishlist look no further than Fawn diaper bags.
10. Noodle & Boo Newborn Body Wash
If you’re looking for the most luxurious spa-like bath experience for baby that’s worth the splurge, I would definitely recommend Noodle & Boo baby lotion and body wash. This baby lotion/body wash has been designed to be gentle on baby’s skin and not leave any residue behind, plus it smells absolutely Heavenly. You can find Noodle & Boo products for baby at Nordstrom stores.
FAQ’s About Baby Essentials
Below are some frequently asked questions about baby essentials that new parents may have. If you have any other questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me!
What does a baby need in the first 3 months?
A diaper bag, baby carrier, bouncer seat and activity gym are a few of the essential items you’ll need for your newborn baby. The baby items listed above are the baby essentials that I believe every baby needs in their first three months.
What baby items do I need right away?
Diapers, clothing, swaddle blankets, and a car seat are a few of the essential baby items you’ll need right away for your newborn baby. The baby items listed above are the baby essentials I believe every baby needs in their first three months.
What should I buy before my baby is born?
Before your baby is born, it’s important to have a stockpile of diapers, some baby clothing, an infant car seat, and a safe space for baby to sleep. The items listed above are all things you could certainly purchase before baby is born to be extra prepared.
What are the must-have baby items for a newborn?
A breast pump, some formula, bottles, diapers, and clothing are some of the essential baby items that every newborn needs. Make sure to have these items on hand before baby arrives!
How many baby items do I need?
The amount of baby items you need is really up to you and what your priorities are. I listed some essential items that I think you need or will be thankful to have in the first 3 months above. I also included some items that I feel are worth the splurge but again that’s up to you and your budget and needs. Truthfully, babies don’t need a lot at the beginning, but it’s always better to be prepared and have everything on hand that you may need for peace of mind.
We hope this guide was helpful in determining what baby essentials you’ll need in the first three months. Remember to register for anything and everything that you think you might need – chances are, you won’t end up using all of it, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. And don’t forget to enjoy those early days with baby – they will be over before you know it!
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