Hey friends!
I can’t help but feel like I would do things very differently if I were pregnant with my first again. Now that I have “been there done that,” I realize that so many baby products on the market are honestly just hyped up. There’s no real necessary for a lot of the things they try to sell ya. I’m so guilty of buying into it… but you live, you learn.
Any other moms feel that way?
At any rate, I wanted to share a minimalist-type list of newborn products (quite the opposite of my post 39 newborn items you do not need). These are the products that I would prioritize on my baby registry if I were to do it all again. In the first few months, these items were really all I needed. I know every mom’s needs are different, so definitely let me know in the comments if you have any additions. But for now, here’s a list for minimalist mamas who need some insight and perspective.
NOTE: This post contains affiliate links, which means that I’ll receive a commission if you purchase from this link. This will not change or increase the cost of your purchase. This extra income provides for my family and keeps The Friendly Fig running strong.
#1: Bassinet. A safe place for baby to sleep. We chose to start with a bassinet in our room (we used the Halo, but if I had to do it over, I would go with something like this), but this can also be swapped for a crib if that is what you’d prefer.
#2: Zip-up sleepers. Zip-up sleepers all day, everyday. Do yourself a favor and forget about buttons – just stock up on these. They are so cozy, easy, and adorable. We loved the Burt’s Bees sleepers and Carter’s Simple Joys (great packs).
#3: Bottles. Nursing or exclusively pumping or formula feeding, whatever the situation may be, you may need bottles. We love the Avent brand or Dr. Browns. Do yourself a favor and only buy the 9 oz (so you always have enough room if they need more).
#4: Burp cloths. And lots of them. I still used these well past the baby years as rags in the kitchen. These were so so worth it.
#5: Swaddle blankets. There’s nothing like Aden + Anais. So soft and versatile – from actually swaddling, using as a nursing cover, cuddling, tummy time, and beyond.
#6: A safe place to put the baby down. Swing, table bouncer, pack ‘n play… pick what works for you. **You’ll notice a rock ‘n play in the photo above (which we used) but since the recall, it is NOT recommended. Do not use.**
#7: Carseat. Take your pick and have it loaded in the car before you head to the hospital.
#8: Diapers – disposable or cloth. Self explanatory.
#9: Wipes – disposable or cloth. Again, self explanatory. We love these.
#10: Diaper rash cream. Find one you love and keep it close. We like this brand – clears her up immediately.
#11: Baby carrier. Wrap or ergo, take your pick. We personally love the Ergobaby. Very comfortable, easy to use, and so convenient.
#12: Bath tub. Little one’s only bathe once every few days (or even once a week within the first month) but having a tub that cradles them is important.
#13: Gentle shampoo. Your choice for a gentle shampoo. We love this brand.
#14: Book. I loved reading to my girls since day one, so books (or at least a book!) are necessary in my opinion. This is our favorite.
#15: Bibs. Lots of dribbling, especially in the early days. I like bandana bibs, because they grow with baby.
#16: White noise machine. This was our savior from the very beginning, and we still use it to this day. Every single day.
There’s a few other items that we loved, but we didn’t use right away in the first initial months. I know that every mama is different, so including some of these below for reference.
- Baby monitor
- Open-ended toys
- Play mat
- Jumper
- High chair
- Walker
- Stuffed animals
- Humidifier
- Pacifier
Items such as baby towels, wash cloths, etc… I feel like I could get away with just a really soft regular towel. Yes, these things are cute, but totally NOT necessary. If you are on a budget, go on and skip it.
Mama birds – do you agree or disagree with the items on my list? I’d love to hear your thoughts. And if you are an expecting mom, I hope that you have found this short and sweet list inspiring and helpful.
Baby’s don’t need fancy products… they need a lot of milk/formula, cuddles, and love. Honestly!
Have a great day friends. Thanks for being here, always. xo bianca
