May 13, 2025
List of things a newborn needs: what to buy before birth (list from an experienced mother)
Newborn Essentials Checklist: What You Really Need to Buy Before Birth (From a Mom of Two)
Becoming a parent is magical — but let’s be honest, preparing for it can feel overwhelming. Especially when it comes to shopping for a newborn. With shelves full of baby clothes, gadgets, and “must-haves,” it’s tempting to buy everything “just in case.”
But here’s the truth from a mom who’s been through it twice: you don’t need half of what you think you do. And some things? You definitely shouldn’t buy before your baby arrives.
Let’s walk through a realistic baby shopping list that saves money, space, and sanity — without compromising your baby’s comfort.
🚫 What NOT to Buy Before the Baby Is Born
❌ Tons of newborn clothes
Babies grow fast. Most newborn-size clothes fit for only a few weeks (if at all). Stick to a few neutral basics.
❌ Diapers in bulk
Don’t stock up on size S or size 1 right away. Instead, get a small pack of NB (Newborn) diapers to test fit.
❌ Fancy baby accessories
Wipe warmers, frilly outfits, newborn shoes? Cute but not necessary.
💡 Remember: you’ll get gifts too — clothes, blankets, toys. Leave room for those surprises.
✅ What You SHOULD Buy Before Giving Birth
Here’s a practical newborn essentials checklist — the things you’ll actually use in the first few days and weeks.
👕 Baby Clothing & Textiles
• 4–5 cotton bodysuits (short or long-sleeve depending on season)
• 2 baby hats and mittens
• A warm baby wrap or swaddle for hospital discharge and outdoor walks
• Muslin or flannel swaddles
• A hooded towel for bath time
🍼 Baby Care & Hygiene
• 1–2 pacifiers — even if you’re not planning to use them right away
• Diaper cream and baby wipes
• A simple baby care kit with thermometer, nasal aspirator, and soft brush
🤱 Essentials for Mom
• 1–2 nursing bras
• A nursing nightgown or shirt for comfortable feeding
• Breast pads and postpartum essentials (check our Mom category)
🛒 How to Shop Smart (Especially in Armenia)
• Start with the essentials — you can always order more later via fast delivery.
• Use trusted local stores like Mommytobee.am, where all products are original, certified, and mom-approved.
• Don’t forget: Armenia’s weather changes! Prepare baby clothes based on the current season.
🎁 Don’t Overdo It — Family & Friends Will Help
Expect gifts. Lots of them. Relatives and friends love buying clothes and toys, especially if it’s your first baby. Leave room in your checklist for the unexpected.
📌 The Final Minimalist Baby Checklist
✔️ 5 bodysuits (cotton, neutral)
✔️ 2 hats and mittens
✔️ 1 warm wrap/swaddle
✔️ 1–2 pacifiers
✔️ 3–4 muslin swaddles
✔️ 1 hooded towel
✔️ 1 nursing bra and nightgown
✔️ Diaper wipes, diaper cream, NB-size diapers
✔️ A few baby care items: thermometer, nail scissors, nasal aspirator
💬 Final Thought
You don’t need to fill your house with baby gear before the baby arrives. What you really need is a few essentials, flexibility, and a whole lot of love.
You can find everything in one place at Mommytobee.am — curated with care for moms like you.