What Do I Actually Need for a Baby?

Whether you’re making up your baby shower registry or simply shopping for the baby, new mothers-to-be are always confused as to what things constitute essentials and what one must have when they bring their baby home.

While it can be overwhelming, don’t sweat it! You can always get things that you’re missing later on when you feel like you need them. Here are some essentials we feel like you should add to your registry or shopping list.

Important Things To Add To A Baby Registry

Car seat

Having a car seat installed into your car beforehand is a prerequisite in order to take your baby home from the birth center. A baby can not legally travel in a car without a properly installed car seat. So, naturally, a good quality, robust car seat is one of the first things you should add to your registry.

Bassinet

A bassinet is a special bed specially designed for babies 0-4 months of age. It comes in handy when you’re not ready to place the baby in the nursery yet. You can set the bassinet next to your bed and have them sleep near you. This is also great for the middle of the night when you are too tired to physically get up and go to another room!

Stroller

Strollers are a must-have for going anywhere with a baby. Be it to your healthcare provider for their check ups or the grocery store, strollers make traveling with a baby easier and more convenient. This way your hands stay free and they can sit or sleep peacefully without disturbance.

There are so many different types of strollers out there! There are ones with recline settings, shades, and more options. Do your research to see what fits your needs.

Baby Tub

While having a baby tub is not entirely imperative, it makes bath times a lot more convenient! They are little elevated tubs you can place within your bathtub. It supports the baby while you bathe them, adding more safety by preventing slippage.

A baby tub can be especially useful if you’re bathing a baby alone.

Baby Monitor

If you’re placing your baby in a nursery or separate room, it’s always great to have a baby monitor to make sure they’re doing okay without having to get up and check in the middle of the night. You can also use the baby monitor to keep an ear on your baby while you’re completing chores or finishing work.

It makes the task of looking after a baby less tiring and lowers your anxiety regarding them being okay.

Postpartum Kit

Not everything on your registry has to be for the baby! You can also ask for postpartum essentials for the mother such as breastfeeding-related things including a breast pump, extra pump parts, breast milk freezer bags, and nipple cream.

These things might not be essential for every mother, but they are a blessing to have around when you need them!

Diaper Bag

A good quality, spacious diaper bag is one of the main things you’ll need immediately afterward when you’re going anywhere with the baby. It should ideally come with a changing mat, pockets for diapers, and bottles just so it’s easy to organize the whole thing.

Did we miss something that you thought was imperative for your newborn when you brought them home? Every family will find things that are important to them during this period, but hopefully, this list will get you off to a great start!