Before my baby was born, I stood in the store, frozen. Bottles, wipes, onesies—I didn’t know what I really needed. As a first-time mom, I felt lost and overwhelmed. So I made this baby shopping list for first time moms to help others like me. It’s simple, honest, and based on real life. You’ll find pictures, prices, and the top 10 things baby needs—plus a free checklist to make shopping easy.
Baby Shopping List for First Time Moms: Newborn Essentials (First 3 Months)
Feeding Essentials
Bottles (even if you plan to breastfeed)
Yes—get bottles. I didn’t think I’d need them until I needed a break one night. Bottles gave me rest and helped my partner feed the baby too.
Short answer: Bottles are a must—even for breastfeeding moms.
I used Philips Avent. Easy to clean. Less gas and less fuss. Try a variety pack if you’re unsure which nipple your baby will like.
Breast Pump or Formula
If you’re breastfeeding, a pump is a lifesaver. I used a small manual one at first. It was quiet and easy to carry.
Formula? Totally fine too. Pick one made for newborns.
Short answer: Choose what fits your life—breast pump or formula.
Burp Cloths
Spit-up happens. A lot. I had burp cloths in every room—no joke.
Short answer: You need at least 8 burp cloths to keep the mess under control.
Bottle Sterilizer
I boiled bottles at first. Then I got a microwave sterilizer. It made life easier, especially when I was tired.
Short answer: Not a must-have, but it saves time (and energy).
Nursing Pillow
I had wrist pain from long feeding sessions. A nursing pillow helped support my arms. I used the “My Brest Friend” pillow. It was a game-changer.
Short answer: Nursing pillows make feeding more comfy and less tiring.
Diapering Essentials
Diapers (Newborn & Size 1)
Expect to change diapers 8–12 times a day. I started with newborn size but switched to size 1 fast.
Short answer: Start with both newborn and size 1. Don’t overstock.
Wipes
Go with fragrance-free. I used them for everything—not just diapers. Kept one in every room.
Short answer: Stock up on gentle wipes. You’ll use them constantly.
Diaper Rash Cream
Redness shows up fast. I liked Desitin and Aquaphor. Use a little with each change.
Short answer: Rash cream helps prevent pain. Start using it early.
Changing Table or Pad
You don’t need a fancy table. I used a simple pad on a low dresser.
Short answer: A portable pad is enough—easy to clean and move.
Diaper Pail
Nice to have, not a must. I skipped it. But if you mind the smell or have little space, it helps.
Short answer: Only buy if diaper smell is a big issue.
Table of Contents
Clothing Must-Haves
Onesies (6–8)
You’ll go through a few a day. I stuck with soft cotton and avoided buttons. Zippers or snaps were easier.
Short answer: Onesies are everyday wear. Have 6–8 ready.
Sleepers (4–6)
Zippers are your best friend at 3 a.m. Skip anything with a million snaps.
Short answer: Zip-up sleepers = easy night changes.
Swaddles
Some babies love them. Some don’t. I started with muslin, then switched to Velcro wraps. Less fuss, more sleep.
Short answer: Swaddles help babies sleep. Try different kinds.
Socks, Mittens, Hats
Babies get cold fast. Soft socks and mittens kept my baby warm and safe from face scratches.
Short answer: These tiny extras keep your baby warm and comfy.
Bath Time Basics
Baby Bathtub
A small tub with a sling helped me a lot. I used it in the sink first, then moved to the bathroom later.
Short answer: A baby tub makes bath time safe and hands-free.
Tear-Free Shampoo
I picked gentle shampoo labeled “tear-free.” I liked Aveeno Baby—it smelled so nice.
Short answer: Use a tear-free shampoo to avoid bath-time drama.
Washcloths & Towels
Soft washcloths clean baby folds. Hooded towels keep them warm after the bath. I kept three of each.
Short answer: Go for soft cloths and hooded towels—simple and cozy.
Lotion
My baby had dry skin. I used fragrance-free lotion after baths. CeraVe Baby worked great.
Short answer: Use lotion to lock in moisture after bathing.
Sleep Essentials
Crib or Bassinet
We started with a bassinet beside the bed. Moved to a crib around 4 months.
Short answer: Bassinet first, crib later—pick what fits your space.
Crib Mattress
Go for firm and breathable. I chose one with a waterproof cover (and was so glad I did).
Short answer: Firm = safe. Waterproof = easy cleanup.
Fitted Crib Sheets
Accidents happen. I bought 2–3 fitted sheets. Cotton ones worked best.
Short answer: Only use fitted sheets. Safer and more snug.
Baby Monitor
I used a basic video monitor. It helped me check on my baby without tiptoeing in. Audio monitors work too.
Short answer: Baby monitors offer peace of mind. Pick one that suits your style.
Top 10 Things a Baby Needs in the First Few Months
Short answer: If you only buy 10 things for your baby, make it these. They’re the real deal—essentials I used every single day.
1. Diapers
You’ll go through more diapers than you can imagine. I changed 8–10 a day in the beginning. We started with newborn size but moved to size 1 within a couple of weeks.
Short answer: Start with a small pack of newborn diapers, then stock up on size 1.
Real tip: Don’t overbuy one size. Babies grow fast, and unopened packs can go to waste.
2. Onesies
They’re like the white T-shirts of baby life. I had 6–8 on rotation. Spit-up? Blowout? Onesies saved the day—every day.
Short answer: Have 6–8 cotton onesies for quick outfit changes.
Personal insight: I avoided fancy ones. Simple, soft, and stretchy worked best—especially with side snaps during the early weeks.
3. Bottles or Breastfeeding Tools
Even if you’re breastfeeding, bottles help. I pumped just to get a break. My partner fed the baby while I napped. Game-changer.
Short answer: Bottles are essential—even if you plan to breastfeed full-time.
Tip: Try a few brands to see what your baby likes. I started with Philips Avent and stuck with it.
4. Crib or Bassinet
We kept our baby in a bassinet beside the bed for the first 3 months. It made nighttime feeds easier and gave me peace of mind.
Short answer: Start with a bassinet if you’re room-sharing. Crib later works fine.
Experience: I didn’t need a full nursery right away—and that saved money and space.
5. Car Seat
You can’t leave the hospital without one. We installed ours a month before the due date. It felt real then!
Short answer: A rear-facing infant car seat is a must-have from day one.
Pro tip: Practice buckling it in before baby arrives. It’s less stressful that way.
6. Baby Blanket
Soft blankets became part of our daily routine—tummy time, stroller walks, even nursing. I kept one nearby at all times.
Short answer: Lightweight, breathable blankets work for warmth and comfort.
Lesson learned: Skip the fluffy ones in early weeks. Go for muslin or cotton.
7. Baby Carrier or Wrap
My wrap saved my sanity. On fussy days, I wore my baby and did chores. It soothed both of us.
Short answer: A baby wrap keeps your hands free and baby close.
Honest moment: It took practice to tie it right. But once I did, it felt like magic.
8. Bathing Essentials
Bath time was a mix of fun and fear at first. A tiny tub with a sling, gentle shampoo, and soft towels made it easier.
Short answer: You’ll need a small tub, baby-safe soap, and soft cloths.
What I’d tell a friend: Hooded towels aren’t just cute—they’re cozy and practical.
9. Thermometer
The first time my baby felt warm, I panicked. I didn’t even own a thermometer yet. Don’t be me.
Short answer: A baby thermometer is a non-negotiable health tool.
Trusted pick: I used a digital forehead thermometer—it was fast and stress-free.
10. Baby Monitor
I used a basic video monitor and checked it way too often. But honestly? It helped me sleep better, knowing I could see and hear my baby.
Short answer: A baby monitor gives peace of mind during naps and nights.
Note: Start simple. Fancy features are nice, but not essential in the beginning.
Top 10 Things a Baby Needs in the First Few Months
Short answer: If you only buy 10 things for your baby, make it these. They’re the real deal—essentials I used every single day.
1. Diapers
You’ll go through more diapers than you can imagine. I changed 8–10 a day in the beginning. We started with newborn size but moved to size 1 within a couple of weeks.
Short answer: Start with a small pack of newborn diapers, then stock up on size 1.
Real tip: Don’t overbuy one size. Babies grow fast, and unopened packs can go to waste.
2. Onesies
They’re like the white T-shirts of baby life. I had 6–8 on rotation. Spit-up? Blowout? Onesies saved the day—every day.
Short answer: Have 6–8 cotton onesies for quick outfit changes.
Personal insight: I avoided fancy ones. Simple, soft, and stretchy worked best—especially with side snaps during the early weeks.
3. Bottles or Breastfeeding Tools
Even if you’re breastfeeding, bottles help. I pumped just to get a break. My partner fed the baby while I napped. Game-changer.
Short answer: Bottles are essential—even if you plan to breastfeed full-time.
Tip: Try a few brands to see what your baby likes. I started with Philips Avent and stuck with it.
4.Crib or Bassinet
We kept our baby in a bassinet beside the bed for the first 3 months. It made nighttime feeds easier and gave me peace of mind.
Short answer: Start with a bassinet if you’re room-sharing. Crib later works fine.
Experience: I didn’t need a full nursery right away—and that saved money and space.
5. Car Seat
You can’t leave the hospital without one. We installed ours a month before the due date. It felt real then!
Short answer: A rear-facing infant car seat is a must-have from day one.
Pro tip: Practice buckling it in before baby arrives. It’s less stressful that way.
6. Baby Blanket
Soft blankets became part of our daily routine—tummy time, stroller walks, even nursing. I kept one nearby at all times.
Short answer: Lightweight, breathable blankets work for warmth and comfort.
Lesson learned: Skip the fluffy ones in early weeks. Go for muslin or cotton.
7. Baby Carrier or Wrap
My wrap saved my sanity. On fussy days, I wore my baby and did chores. It soothed both of us.
Short answer: A baby wrap keeps your hands free and baby close.
Honest moment: It took practice to tie it right. But once I did, it felt like magic.
8. Bathing Essentials
Bath time was a mix of fun and fear at first. A tiny tub with a sling, gentle shampoo, and soft towels made it easier.
Short answer: You’ll need a small tub, baby-safe soap, and soft cloths.
What I’d tell a friend: Hooded towels aren’t just cute—they’re cozy and practical.
9. Thermometer
The first time my baby felt warm, I panicked. I didn’t even own a thermometer yet. Don’t be me.
Short answer: A baby thermometer is a non-negotiable health tool.
Trusted pick: I used a digital forehead thermometer—it was fast and stress-free.
10. Baby Monitor
I used a basic video monitor and checked it way too often. But honestly? It helped me sleep better, knowing I could see and hear my baby.
Short answer: A baby monitor gives peace of mind during naps and nights.
Note: Start simple. Fancy features are nice, but not essential in the beginning.
Baby Items List A–Z
Feeling lost in the baby aisle? I was too. I remember googling “baby items list A-Z” at 2 a.m. with one hand and holding my newborn in the other. So I made this alphabet-style list—with real descriptions and price estimates—to help other moms like me.
Short answer: Here’s your A–Z baby essentials guide with prices, and practical notes for each item.
Baby Essentials A–Z
| Item | Short Description | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| A – Aspirator | Clears tiny noses and helps baby breathe better. | $5–$15 |
| B – Bottles | A must for feeding, even if you're breastfeeding. | $10–$30 |
| C – Car Seat | Safety essential from day one—hospitals require it. | $80–$250 |
| D – Diapers | You’ll need lots—start with newborn and size 1. | $0.20–$0.40 each |
| E – Ear Thermometer | Quick and gentle way to check baby’s temp. | $25–$60 |
| F – Formula | A feeding option that supports your choice. | $15–$40/can |
| G – Gripe Water | Helps with colic, gas, and hiccups. | $8–$15 |
| H – High Chair | Needed around 6 months, but plan ahead. | $50–$150 |
| I – Infant Tub | Makes bath time easier and safer. | $20–$40 |
| J – Jumper | Great for active play once baby can hold their head up. | $40–$90 |
| K – Knit Blanket | Soft, cozy, and perfect for snuggles (not for sleep). | $15–$40 |
| L – Lotion | Keeps baby’s skin soft and flake-free. | $5–$15 |
| M – Monitor | Gives you peace of mind—go audio or video. | $30–$200 |
| N – Nail Clippers | Baby nails grow fast and scratch easily. | $5–$10 |
| O – Onesies | Your baby will live in these! Go for 6–8. | $10–$25/pack |
| P – Pacifiers | Soothe fussiness—try a few types to see what works. | $4–$12 |
| Q – Q-Tips (Baby Safe) | Use gently around the ears and folds. | $2–$6 |
| R – Rash Cream | Prevents and treats diaper rash. | $5–$12 |
| S – Swaddles | Help babies sleep better and feel secure. | $20–$40/pack |
| T – Towels (Hooded) | Keep baby warm and dry after a bath. | $10–$20 |
| U – Utensils (Soft Tip) | For when baby starts solids (around 6 months). | $5–$15 |
| V – Velcro Bibs | Easy to take on/off—great for drooling or feeding. | $10–$20/pack |
| W – Wipes | Gentle cleaning for diapers, hands, and messes. | $10–$30/bulk |
| X – Xtra Fitted Sheets | Always have backups! Accidents happen. | $10–$25 each |
| Y – Yellow Baby Wash (like J&J) | Mild and trusted for generations. | $5–$10 |
| Z – Zippered Sleepers | Faster than snaps for nighttime changes. | $10–$20 |
Tip: Save this list or screenshot it when shopping—online or in-store. You’ll thank yourself later.
Budgeting Tips: Baby Items List with Prices
When we had our first baby, I was shocked by how fast the costs added up. One Target trip turned into a $300 receipt—and I hadn’t even bought diapers yet! In the end, we spent about $1,200 on baby essentials. But the good news? We found smart ways to save without skipping what really mattered.
Short answer: A basic baby setup costs around $1,000–$1,500. You can save hundreds by knowing what’s essential—and what’s just “nice to have.”
Must-Have Baby Items (With Price Range)
These are the non-negotiables—the things you’ll use every single day. If your budget is tight, start here.
Essential Baby Gear List
| Item | Why You Need It | Estimated Price |
|---|---|---|
| Crib or bassinet | Safe sleep space | $100–$300 |
| Car seat | Required for leaving the hospital | $80–$250 |
| Diapers & wipes | Goes fast, so buy in bulk | $200–$300 (first 3 months) |
| Bottles or breastfeeding gear | For feeding, no matter how you choose | $30–$100 |
| Baby clothes (onesies, sleepers) | Babies spit up a lot | $50–$100 |
| Monitor | Peace of mind while baby sleeps | $30–$200 |
| Swaddles or sleep sacks | Helps baby sleep longer | $20–$40 |
| Bath basics (tub, shampoo, towel) | Bath time fun and safety | $25–$50 |
Quick tip: Stick to 2-3 swaddles, 5–7 onesies, and 1 good monitor—no need to stockpile.
Nice-to-Haves (But Skippable If Needed)
These are lovely, but not urgent. You can often borrow or buy later if you really need them.
Item | Why It’s Optional | Estimated Price |
Changing table | A blanket on the bed works too | $100–$200 |
Wipe warmer | Feels fancy, but not necessary | $25–$35 |
Bottle warmer | You can use warm water in a cup | $20–$40 |
Swing or bouncer | Great if baby loves movement | $50–$150 |
Fancy outfits | Cute, but babies outgrow fast | $10–$50 each |
Diaper pail | Regular bin with lid also works | $30–$70 |
Related: Affordable Baby Gear I Actually Loved – Amazon Finds Under $30
How We Saved Money (Real Mom Tricks)
- We bought secondhand where it made sense.
I got a nearly-new baby swing from a friend for $30 instead of $120. - We skipped the extras at first.
No bottle warmer. No wipe warmer. Didn’t miss them. - We made an Amazon baby registry and got a 15% completion discount.
That alone saved us over $100 on big-ticket items. - We accepted hand-me-downs with open arms.
My cousin’s old onesies were a lifesaver—and totally free.
Answer-first takeaway: Spend on sleep and safety; save on things that look cute but aren’t used daily.
Final Thoughts: Spend Smart, Not Big
Buying for a baby doesn’t mean buying everything. It’s about choosing what fits your lifestyle, your home, and your baby—not what every Instagram list says. Focus on what you’ll actually use every day.
And remember: your baby won’t care if the towel is organic or if the bottle warmer lights up. They just need love, warmth, and a safe space to grow.
Q1: What are the top 10 baby essentials for first time moms?
A: Diapers, onesies, bottles, crib, car seat, monitor, blanket, baby wrap, thermometer, and wipes.
Q2: Is there a newborn baby shopping list with pictures and prices?
A: Yes! Scroll up to see the A–Z item list with photos and cost estimates.
Q3: What does a newborn need for the first 3 months?
A: Focus on feeding, sleep, diapering, and warmth. You don’t need everything at once!
Q4: How can I save money on baby items?
A: Use registries, shop sales, accept hand-me-downs, and prioritize multi-use products.
Pingback: Can Baby Bottles Go In The Dishwasher? A Parent’s Guide To Safe & Easy Cleaning - Moms Pal
Pingback: Why Does My Baby Scream After Bath Time? (Real Mom Tips + Expert Advice) - Moms Pal