Baby Shopping Guide Must Have Essentials for First Time Moms (and things you don’t need)

Baby Shopping Guide Must Have Essentials for First Time Moms hellonance.com BEAUTY LIFESTYLE BLOG

Going shopping for items for your newborn baby can be overwhelming. There are a lot if things to buy: nursery essentials, baby clothes and sleepwear, baby bath and skincare, things for the Go Bag, the Diaper Bag, baby feeding… The list goes on. As a first time mom (parent), it is so important to get only the best for Baby. Researching what to buy is laborish. There are so many products! I would like to buy everything if space wasn’t an issue (we live in an apartment); or if money wasn’t an issue (I hate buying things that goes to waste).

Now that Emily is 6 months old (omg just like a blink of an eye!), I like to share with you our handy checklist of items we purchased, things we recommend, things we wished we never bought – our tried and tested (broken down my categories) – to make sure you don’t have to!

To be honest when we first registered at our baby registry at our local baby store, we were given a list that’s even longer than this one below.

While most items were very Pinterest worthy – however merely decorative or not very useful. Because honestly baby could care less whether the walls are pink or white. All baby cares about are boobies (or formula milk), if she sleeps comfortably and has a fresh change of diapers.

BABY NURSERY ESSENTIALS:

Crib: We like the minimalist look of this versatile crib that can be placed at two different heights and also converts into a toddler bed. This crib is also perfect for parents who want to co-sleeping with their Baby.

Bassinet: We used this bassinet extensively before Baby graduated to the crib. We purchased this bassinet when we bought the UppaBaby stroller and Mesa car seat. It was so convenient wheeling Baby around the apartment between the living room and the bedroom without waking Baby. We also loved it because Baby felt safer since it was cozy and comfy. It wasn’t as wide open as the crib. The drop-down canopy sunshade was also great at blocking out the lights.

Baby Nest: Whether your family chooses to co-sleep or have your baby strictly in a bassinet/crib, this baby nest (similar here and here) helps our little one sleep snug as a bug! We originally used the nest when Emily napped on the couch. Now we use it so she can co-sleep with us in bed.

The baby nest was a game-changer for our sleep! When baby was 4 months she started having sleep regressions – waking up in the middle of the night. This was very very devastating for our sleep and sanity! (She had slept through the night starting at 2.5 months between 8pm-6am). Now she wouldn’t go back to sleep unless I laid beside her!! The baby nest allowed our baby to sleep comfortably in between us in our bed, but also gave us the freedom to move and get up without waking the baby.

Mobile: we bought this safari animal mobile that has glowing leaves that rotate, projects stars on ceiling and plays four different melodies and four nature sound including white noise and heartbeat. I recommend getting a battery operated mobile that comes with a one-touch remote starts or stops mobile. Trust me you will thank me later when baby is crying and fussing! I also love the idea of these beautiful floral mobiles.

Baby Head Support Pillow: When Emily was born she would always sleep on the right side of her head. We were so afraid that she would develop baby flat head syndrome. We bought this donut shaped head support pillow. The special indentation of the Cloud 9 Head Support cradles baby’s head delicately and helps distribute the weight of baby’s head evenly, relieving pressure and helping prevent flat-head syndrome.

Baby Quilt Blanket: Again, we love everything that Little Unicorn makes, especially this pineapple muslin quilt. Super large 47″ x 47″ four layer 100% rayon muslin made from bamboo that is breathable, gets softer with each wash and helps prevents babies from overheating! I know some Moms would be like that is a big no no to let baby sleep with blankets and covers. But it helped Emily fall asleep quicker while keeping her warm. I like to fold it twice so it there is some weight on baby. Similar here, here and here.

Humidifier: Baby and parents with dry skin can breathe better with this whisper quiet ultrasonic humidifier that totally ugly. For those also looking for one that can double up as aromatherapy, this lovely ceramic essential oil diffuser is wonderful. When baby is ultra hyper (or when I need to calm down a little), I like to add a few drops of this children’s diffuser blend that brings a sense of clam for a blissful sleep!

Baby Gear Must Haves:

Swaddle blankets: I love love love the soft breathable muslin of these swaddle blankets! I love the large size dimensions of 44" x 44"! Some swaddle blankets are too small and makes it hard to swaddle and to make the perfect baby burrito! These are 100% cotton and super soft! I literally use them for everything - swaddle, stroller or nursing cover, burp cloth, tummy time blanket, changing pad cover... I also really like these Little Unicorn and Aden and Anais swaddle blankets.

Bibs: These bibs are little pricey but they lasts for the whole day without getting soggy and wet. The super soft cotton muslin is breathable and dries quickly. I love the easy snap closures! Plus they come in tons of uber cute patterns and designs. I originally bought cheaper ones but they just got so gross in a matter of hours!

Baby Sleep Sack: Baby sleeping bags are awesome at regulating temperature and keeping baby safe while sleeping. I particularly love this one that helps babies transition from womb to swaddled to unswaddled. Sleepsacks replace loose blankets in the crib that can cover your baby’s face and interfere with breathing. This sleepsack set not only helps your precious one sleep safer; it will help her sleep better, too, because the swaddle layer with hook-and-eye closures keeps his arms tucked in to prevent him from startling. Similar here and here. And for Fall/Winter option for these warmer fleece sleep sacks.

Once Emily was breaking and escaping from her sleepsack we transitioned her to this Grobag and this microfleece sleepbag.

Diaper Changing Pad: People say you can change baby anywhere - on the bed, on the couch, on the floor - however I'm not much of a fan of the idea that baby will pee and poo on my bed or my couch. Let's face it, they are not potty trained and may result in live actions! So we got a changing pad made with firm fiberfill padding and a contoured shape keep baby comfortable on a PVC-free waterproof changing pad outfitted with a helpful safety strap. Then we got these ultra soft cotton changing covers.

Diaper Genie: While we are on the topic of dirty diapers, you must get a diaper pail for easy diaper disposal and mainly to seal in odors - especially odors!

Receiving Blankets: Many people had recommended this to us before Baby arrived - but I find this is really an optional purchase. You can just use swaddle blankets or old towels if you are scared of spit ups or diaper leakage on your clothes.

Nail Clipper: I like this nail clipper because of the patented safety spy hole allows you to see exactly what you're clipping, eliminating the risk of cutting a child's sensitive skin. The kit also comes with baby nail file that is curved S-shape specially designed for small fingers.

Booger/Snot Sucker: Babies has a lot of boogers and they don’t know how to pick their noses. We prefer using the FridaBaby NoseFrida with this gentle saline spray mist for a natural, hygienic way to suck out baby snot. It is easier and safer than using a scoop. You can get these easy dose baby nasal care drops.

Thermometer: this Braun No Touch Forehead thermometer is worth every penny. It is super awesome and easy to use. When Baby first had her 2 and 4 months shots, she had a fever. Our pharmacist recommended this thermometer. I love it’s convenience of two clinically proven options to take a temperature - completely non-invasive no touch or traditional forehead touch. The digital reader and color indicators are also fool proof. No second guessing. Green for ok. Yellow for mild. And red for fever.

Disposable Diaper Pads: sometimes baby has accidents when you are changing their dirty diapers. These disposable diaper pads (similar here) protects the diaper pad and can be easily thrown away. When we are out, I love using these on changing stations at coffee shops. It is much cleaner and protects Baby from germs.

Portable Diaper Changing Station: In addition to disposable diaper pads we also have this compact portable SkipHop diaper changing station to keep all of our baby essentials on hand. The clutch style handbag made of printed polyester. Flap front with side release buckle closure. Single handle strap with clip that can hang on a stroller or wrist. Exterior front zip pocket. Clutch unfolds and becomes an extra-wide mod changing pad with cushioned head pad. Interior lining with back wall zip pocket, slip pockets, and mesh pocket. Comes with transparent wipes case. If I'm going to the park or walks with Baby, I stash my cell phone and some cash in there and I'm ready to go!

Pacifier Clip: Babies will throw and spit out their pacifiers! In the beginning we didn't have a pacifier clip and all her pacifiers ended up on the floor. These are perfect to for keeping you baby's pacifier secure and easily attaches to their clothes.

Scratch Free Baby Mittens: Baby nails are vicious! They will claw and scratch you! When baby skin is dry and itchy or when baby is stressed they will scratch themselves. These Goumikids scratch free mittens protects baby! It is luxuriously soft and made from organic cotton and are naturally antimicrobial providing protection from germs for your baby. Parents, you don't need to buy multiple sizes at one time because baby will outgrow them in a week or two. These mittens are designed to be adjustable through up to 6 months of growth. Plus the patterns are designed that support baby's brain development! Gown patterns are good for baby’s brain. Integrated goumimitts with high contrast pattern on the reverse side stimulates infant brain and eye development!

Baby Bath Tub: This versatile tub grows with baby through three stages and is the only baby bath tub you’ll ever need. The sling locks into two ergonomic positions: higher for full-body support and lower for seated support. Dual layered mesh and comfort-edge construction securely cradles baby from head-to-toe. The slings adjusts to a cushioned seat that comfortably supports babies learning to sit. Remove the sling when baby has mastered sitting and easily bathe baby in the spacious tub—no uncomfortable plastic bumps.

Baby Travel & On The Go Essentials:

Stroller: I absolutely love the UppaBaby line of strollers. We got the Uppababy Cruz that is compact, light and streamlined! The compact stroller frame stands when folded. The one click release design is easy to use and is the perfect travel system compatible with the Mesa Infant Car seat (no adapters necessary) and bassinet! Infant Car Seat: You can not leave the hospital without an infant car seat. Nurses will inspect that you have secured Baby correctly before allowing your precious newborn baby to go home with out. As mentioned before we got this easy one click and easy install Uppababy car seat.

Stroller Organizer: This stroller organizer is perfect for Moms and Dads on the go. It keep drinks cool and essentials ready to go! Insulated beverage and essentials caddy keeps items close at hand while you stroll! It stretches to hold bottles and coffee cups securely, while providing easy access to your most important items. Includes a detachable wristlet for errands and a headphone port for hands-free calls.

Stroller Cover: This floral print is super adorable. We also love this black and white striped infant car seat and nursing cover! I love using this to block out the sun, wind and rain. Plus it is super stretchy, lightweight and soft!

Baby Carrier: Parents who love to wear their babies can get excited for going hands free! This features lumbar support, extra cushioned crossable should straps and holds baby in a hip healthy froggy M shape position at all stages.

Activity Toy: Babies can get fussy or bored while sitting in the stroller. We like this playful stroller toy that pulls down and vibrates that offers exciting visual and tactile stimulation great afor sensory development. It also has a spinning kaleidoscope of colors and patterns. Similar here.

Pacifier Clip: Babies will throw and spit out their pacifiers! In the beginning we didn't have a pacificer clip and all her pacifiers ended up on the floor. These are perfect to for keeping you baby's pacifier secure and easily attaches to their clothes.

Baby Feeding Must Haves and Nursing Essentials:

Bottles: We tried a few different baby milk bottles from Philips AVENT, BornFree, Dr. Brown's and Nestle's NUK. Hands down Emily loves the NUK Perfect Fit newborn bottles and Philips AVENT. Both slow flow nipples help reduce colic and gas.

Bottle Warmer: Whether you are breastfeeding or bottle feeding, this fast bottle warmer is warms evenly warm evenly while preserving the quality of your milk. The fast warming gets your milk ready in 3 minutes.

Bottle Steamer: This bottle steamer steams and sterilizes in under 10 minutes.

Bottle Drying Rack: Yes you can probably get away with drying the bottles on the counter. But I like the flexible design to organize up to 8 bottles, as well as nipples, breast pump parts, pacifiers, and other baby accessories. Similar here and here.

Pacifier / Soothie: Hospital trusted pacifier for newborns and babies. Its shape and size are designed to fit a newborn’s mouth comfortable and to support healthy oral development. One-piece construction which follows the American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations. If you breastfeed moms: they don’t experience nipple confusion!

Breast Pump: This double electric breast pump is light and portable. It fits in the palm of your hand and has a backlit display and quiet-ish motor - for those late night pumping. This kit with bonus bundle.

Baby Feeding Essentials: months 6+

Baby Bowls: these spill proof and leak proof bowls are BPA free and stacks nicely together for storage. The easy grip spoons are colorful and baby loves it!

Baby Food Blender: I love this design and color of this Beaba babycook baby food maker in rose gold! It hosts a high-tech design with a patented steam-heating system helps you prepare fresh meals for baby with ease. The countertop appliance functions as a steamer, blender, warmer and defroster so you can craft delicious, healthy meals for your little one in 20 minutes or less. For those looking for more capacity, the Babycook Plus has two bowls (up to 9.4 cup capcity). I got this one since I love the idea I can make one savory and one sweet meals for baby at the same time!

Multiportion Food Tray: Meal prep for baby saves you time and headaches! I love these silicone trays designed for freezing and storing a la carte foods for baby. Multiportions is comprised of six individual 3 oz portions. Made from high quality, platinum grade silicone, a single portion of frozen food is easy to pop out. Freezer, microwave, oven and dishwasher safe.

Sippy Cups: When baby starts to push the bottles away and wants to drink water like adults, these leak proof trainer cups are easy for toddlers to hold. I especially like the flip top lid covers straw to keep germs away.

Baby Skincare Must Have for Dry Skin:

Newborn babies tend to have dry skin, rashes, pimples and eczema. When Emily was born initially her skin was fine, however; after a weeks she started having very dry skin. None of the over the counter creams seemed to work. We wondered if we should talk with the doctor about my child's dry skin.

We were frustrated. Baby was frustrated, uncomfortable and very fussy (who can blame her with dry itchy and cracked skin). Doctor suggested we wait it out before using prescription medications.

Her skin started to improve almost immediately after we started using the following products.

La Roche Posay: This LIPIKAR Baume AP+ cream is anti-Itching, lipid-replenishing, soothing balm. It is non-greasy and absorbs very quickly. I love that it is fragrance-free and paraben-free. It relieves very dry, irritated skin prone to itching, extreme dryness, sensitive and atopy-prone skin. Suitable for babies, children and adults.

Also on the list is La Roche Posay's LIPIKAR SYNDET AP+ shower cream. Dryness starts in the shower and this shower cream reduces severe dryness.

Aveeno Baby: This is a heavy nighttime balm designed for soothing dry itchy skin. This colloidal oatmeal nighttime balm helps care for your baby’s skin with eczema. This unique balm intensely moisturizes however I find it to be very greasy. It also strengthens the skin’s natural moisture barrier and helps soothe and prevent recurrence of dry, itchy skin, so your baby will feel relief when applied at bedtime.

Polysporin: When baby's skin is cracked and I'm afraid that she will get an infection I will use a little Polysporin Complete. Our pediatrician says it is ok for babies, however; if you are concerned please consult with your medical professional first!

Is there anything you would recommend? Let me know in the comments below please! Thanks!

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