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.