What to Buy When You're Having a Baby

All of the Baby Products Newborns Need

Updated April 12, 2018
Nursery with Baby Gear
Mother Image / Getty Images

Right after you learn that you're having a baby, you learn that babies seem to need a lot of stuff! if you're feeling overwhelmed, don't worry. This list will help you figure out what to buy for baby. Of course, there are millions of baby products available for your shopping pleasure, but following products are the most common needs or wants for newborns. Want to go minimalist for baby? Check out this pared-down basic baby needs list.

Basic Layette and Clothing

Baby clothes are cuter than ever, and you could easily blow your entire baby products budget just on sweet little socks and tiny rompers. These are the basics that baby needs, though you likely won't be able to resist buying beyond the basics in this category.

Nursery Basics

You can find cute mobiles, wall decor, lamps, rugs and more to coordinate with your baby's nursery. Below are the items found in most nurseries, to give you a starting point for your baby's special room.

Bathing and Baby Care

That amazing baby smell doesn't last very long unless you're ready to wash off the myriad messes babies make. Before you buy many baby bath supplies, consider whether you want to bathe your newborn in a regular tub, a sink, or in a special baby tub.

  • Baby bathtub or insert for your regular tub
  • Baby shampoo and body wash
  • Baby lotion
  • Hooded baby towels, or soft regular towels
  • Baby washcloths, or soft regular washcloths
  • Baby nail clippers
  • Nasal aspirator
  • Digital rectal thermometer
  • Infant acetaminophen drops
  • Infant-safe sunscreen

Feeding Your Newborn

Because babies grow so fast in their first few months, they need to eat really often. Before baby arrives, you'll need to decide whether you will breastfeed or bottle feed. Some of these product purchases will depend on which feeding method you choose.

Diapering

Not long after baby eats, you'll need to be ready for a diaper change. Before you buy any diapering supplies, decide whether you want to use cloth diapers or disposable diapers. Not only are the diapers different, but you may need different diaper pails or other supplies for each type, as well.

Baby Soothing and Entertaining Gear

OK, secret time. Sometimes babies cry. If you think your baby may cry at some point, the following products are tried and true baby soothers that may help return a smile to every face in the household. As for newborn fun, your baby's attempts to smile and coordinate arm movements may be amusing enough for everyone, but it won't hurt to have a few toys available to stimulate baby's growing brain.

Baby Travel Gear

When it's time to show off your precious new baby, you'll need a whole other set of baby products to get out of the house with safety and style. Car seats are now required by every state in the U.S., in some states to age 8, so it's a good idea to spend some extra time learning about this important purchase.

If you have the items above, you'll be well-prepared for your new baby. But don't let this list hold you back—there are plenty of additional baby products to explore that will make your life with baby more convenient, fun or safe. Happy shopping.