New Baby Essentials

With my third baby, I really feel like I have the baby essentials down. I’ve been getting a lot of requests about baby gear that I love, so I wanted to put a list together for you. New baby essentials are really about finding items that create convenience for you as a mom, many of which work double-duty.

I over-planned everything when I had my first baby. I was so confused about what was really necessary. I had a multi-page spreadsheet that I shared with all my friends once they became first-timers too. It was excessive and now looking back it’s laughable. Ah, the anxieties of a new mom! I toiled over every decision.

Now I know that the real baby essentials are me, breastmilk/formula, and some clean clothes. Babies just need our love, truly. However, if you are in the market for some baby goods, I have a list for you!

Baby Essentials: Bailey’s List

Here are seven baby essentials that both new and experienced moms may need:

1. Konssey Waffle Baby Blankets

I saw another mom using these blankets and LOVED them! They’re a super soft and waffle-knit material and wash even softer. I love lightweight blankets for spring and summer months as temps rise. Babies love to be cozy and these can work as blankets, burp cloths, picnic or park seating, nursing coverups, etc. So versatile.

2. Organic Washable Breast Pads

These were originally gifted to me and have been MVPs. I leak breastmilk always when my milk lets down, so need pads in, The disposable are so scratchy and wasteful. These are so soft, even when wet and then dry and get sort of crunchy from milk (I know, gross) – they somehow absorb and distribute well. They wash easily and I find myself reaching for them constantly.

3. Haakaa Manual Breast Pump

I use this breast pump actually as a catcher for my let-down. When I nurse on one side, I attach this to the other and catch that wasted letdown if I can. If not, this comes in very handy as a hand pump that can fit in even a small purse. Once you get the hang of this it really can help you build a milk supply without actually having to pump.

4. SwaddleMe Easy Change Swaddle

Velcro swaddles are incredible. Especially these, as the velcro isn’t overly strong, creating a loud noise when you open it. The first month you’re changing so many diapers so need a quiet velcro.

5. Solly Baby Rosalie Wrap

Baby essential GOAT is this wrap. Hands down my favorite newborn wrap is the Solly baby. There’s just no denying it. I use mine multiple times a day throughout infancy for all kids. 10/10 recommend as a baby essential.

6. Solly Baby Basil Sleeper

Sleepers with built-in feet are my favorite. No missing socks! These are so buttery soft and irresistible. Pro tip: tuck the top into the bottoms so it doesn’t slip around. I do like bottoms that come off though to make night changes much easier.

7. Doona Car Seat

My last baby essential is an investment piece. This is for my multiple kid mamas – The Doona. It’s a stroller that collapses into a car seat for newborns and infants. Game. Changer. No more popping the truck and lifting heavy attachments, or losing attachments, or whatnot. This makes drop-off SO easy while the bigger kids are running a muck. It is so worth it and I love love love this car seat/stroller. One note is that it’s a little bit short. I’m 5’10” and it works for me, but is a tiny bit shorter than I’m used to. Not a deal-breaker at all, just a tiny little note.

I hope this list of baby essentials brings you some inspiration and ideas! I truly love passing on tried and true mom tips, as this job of raising kids is hard enough! Sending so much love to you all!