The Essentials: What You Really Need

Welcoming a new baby into your life is an exhilarating experience filled with joy, love, and a fair share of challenges. As new parents, you may find yourself overwhelmed by the sheer amount of baby gear available on the market. With so many options, it can be difficult to determine what is truly essential for your little one. In this guide, we will explore the top must-have baby gear that will make your parenting journey smoother and more enjoyable. We only recommend items that we own and use regularly. If you have any questions or want additional recommendations please leave us a comment in the box at the bottom of our home page.

The Essentials: What You Really Need

When it comes to baby gear, there are a few items that stand out as absolute necessities. These essentials will help you care for your newborn while ensuring their comfort and safety.

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Crib or Bassinet

A safe sleeping environment is crucial for your baby's well-being. You have two primary options: a crib or a bassinet.

• Crib: A crib is a long-term investment that will last for several years. Look for one that meets safety standards and has adjustable mattress heights. Most will convert into toddler beds as well. We love the 4-in-1 models that grow with your little one.

  
  

  • Cribs come in many different price points. Look for the Greenguard Gold certification- these products are made safer for nurseries as they ensure low chemical emissions. Some popular brands with this designation are Babyletto, DaVinci, Storkcraft, Namesake, Delta Childrens, Pottery Barn Kids, and Crate and Barrel. Check to make sure the individual product has the certification before purchasing. See our other post "Best Products for Comfort and Safety" for more tips on finding safer products for your little ones.
    

    • You can also find good deals by checking your local Facebook Marketplace and Offer Up. We found our Pottery Barn Kids Larkin crib with toddler attachments for $400 on Offer Up and it was in near perfect condition! If buying second hand, make sure to check for bite marks and peeling paint- you'll want to pass on those. You'll also want to pass on any vintage ones as they are not up to modern safety standards.

      
      

  • We recommend the Newton Baby Waterproof Mattress. This mattress is breathable and will last them through their toddler years. One side is for babies and the other side is for toddlers. (Along with the mattress, you'll want to get 2 mattress pads and 3 fitted crib sheets so you're prepared for middle of the night accidents- these items are listed on our Amazon shopping list you can access at the top of the page.)

    
    

• Bassinets: A bassinet is a great choice for keeping your newborn close to you at night. They are portable and can easily fit next to your bed. There are standalone bassinets and also ones with drop down sides allowing your baby to be right next to your bedside.
  

  • We love our Newton Baby Bassinet. You'll want to get an extra bassinet mattress pad (the bassinet comes with 1) and extra fitted bassinet sheet set (2 sheets are in the set) so you don't have to wait on the wash if your baby spits up or has a blowout.

The Woolino sleep sacks are amazing once they are out of the swaddle. They are wool and naturally regulate temperature making them perfect for year round use without having to deal with the confusing TOG ratings. They also make a cotton brand called Ecolino that we have as a backup for when our Woolino is in the wash. They both hold up really well and between both my kids we are going on 3 years of use with them.

Diapers and Wipes

Diapers are a non-negotiable item for new parents. You will need a reliable supply of diapers and wipes to keep your baby clean and comfortable.

• Diapers: Huggies are great for daytime use and Coterie is fantastic for nighttime once they start sleeping longer stretches since they hold so much and keep baby dry all night. Costco is going to be your best bet for diapers and your membership will pay for itself if you're buying diapers there. You can buy single packs of Coterie diapers without the subscription at Whole Foods.
  

• Wipes: Make sure your baby tolerates the wipes before you stock up on any specific brand. We use these brands and have never had any issues:

  • Water Wipes for newborns

  • Honest Wipes after they are a few weeks old. The Honest Wipes have a texture to them which helps them to clean better.
    

• See bottom of page for helpful tips on how to get discounts on Diapers and Wipes.

  
  

Baby Carrier

A baby carrier allows you to keep your hands free while keeping your baby close. There are several types of carriers available. Be sure to look up the correct way to put your baby in the carrier as it is super important that they are positioned correctly.

• Wraps: These are made from soft fabric and can be adjusted to fit your body. It can take some practice to get it on correctly. We haven't used this type so we don't have any recommendations.

  
  

• Structured Carriers: These provide more support and are easier to put on and take off. We recommend the Ergobaby Embrace.

  
  

• Hiking Carriers: Great for hikes once your baby is older and able to sit upright in the backpack. We love the Osprey Poco Child Carrier.

  
  

Stroller

A good stroller is essential for outings with your baby. Look for one that is easy to fold, and has a smooth ride. Be sure to check out the basket sizes underneath!

• Stroller: At Posh's Picks we LOVE the UppaBaby Vista V3 Stroller and Bassinet combined with the Nuna car seat. The UppaBaby Vista is heavy and takes up a significant amount of trunk space so consider that when picking. If you want a durable stroller with lots of storage that holds up for daily use the Vista is perfect for you! It can also easily convert to hold 2 children with attachments. We bought the stroller with that in mind but ended up not purchasing the extra seat and instead got the Piggy Back Ride Along Board for the 3 year old once the new baby was here. The bassinet attachment is perfect for walks and is certified as a safe sleep space. See bottom of page for tips on how to get the best price on strollers.

  
  

• Travel or Compact Stroller: Ideal for quick trips, these strollers are compact, lighter, and easy to carry. We like to keep one of these in the car and leave the Vista for use at home. If you will be traveling by airplane frequently we highly recommend getting a travel stroller that folds up small enough to fit in the overhead bin so you don't have to gate check it and wait for it upon landing.
  

• Double Stroller: A side by side stroller is also an option if you have 2 children. Look for one that is narrow enough to fit through doorways and folds up small enough.

Play Gyms, Bouncers, Floor Padding, Pack and Play

• Play Gyms:  Highly recommend the Love Every Play Gym. Tip: lay a swaddle or towel out underneath baby to catch spit ups so you don't have to wash the whole mat each time.

• Bouncers: The Baby Bjorn is fantastic. The angle of it is also great for getting gas out of gassy babies.
  

• Floor Padding / Play Mats: We love Gathre brand. We have the Padded Midi Plus in front of our sofa and put the Love Every Play Gym on top of it. Gathre brand makes great non-toxic products that are very aesthetically pleasing. We like the simplicity of having one large mat instead of the mat tiles you piece together as once piece mats are much easier to clean. You can order color swatches from their website.
  

• Pack and Play: We put the Graco Pack and Play Day 2 Dream in our living room since it is on a separate floor from the nursery. There are many different options for Pack and Plays and we have gotten so much use out of this one that comes with the bassinet, infant sleeping area, and changing table attachment.

Feeding Gear: Making Mealtime Easier

Feeding your baby can be a delightful bonding experience, but it also requires the right gear. Here are some must-haves for feeding time.

Bottles and Feeding Supplies

The decision is up to you whether you choose to breastfeed, formula-feed, or combo-feed. There are many resources available for guidance and support no matter which option you choose.

• Bottles: Look for BPA-free options that are easy to clean. Glass bottles are also a great option just be careful not to drop them. We love Dr. Browns Bottles but they have multiple pieces which do not make them the easiest to clean.
  

• Bottle Drying Rack: Make sure to get one that fits all your bottles. If you use Dr. Browns they have lots of extra pieces you'll need space for. OXO Tot Bottle Drying Rack fits up to 12 of the Dr. Browns bottles plus the extra pieces.

  • We don't have much counter space and opted not to purchase a countertop bottle washer. Bottles just went into a large bowl with a bit of dish soap in the other side of the sink to soak during the day, then cleaned with a bottle brush at night and loaded into the dishwasher to wash and sanitize. If you do this option make sure to purchase at least 12 bottles so you only have to do one load of dishes a day. Also you will want to use a non-toxic dishwasher detergent. We love Dirty Labs.
    

• Breastmilk Storage Bags: Lansinoh Breastmilk Storage Bags are great.
  

• Nursing Pads: These stick inside your bra to catch leaks. There are disposable and reusable options. We like the Lansinoh Stay Dry Disposable Nursing Pads.
  

• Breastfeeding Support: Lansinoh Breast Therapy Packs provide hot or cold relief and Frida Mom 2-in-1 Lactation Massager to help with clogged ducts.
  

• Breastfeeding Pillow: The My Breast Friend Nursing Pillow comes highly recommended.
  

• Bottle Warmer: We use the Philips Avent bottle warmer multiple times a day. There are also portable bottle warmers that heat themselves up which are great for when you are out and about.

  
  

Breast Pump

If you plan to breastfeed, a breast pump can be a valuable tool. It allows you to express milk for later use, giving you flexibility. Before purchasing be sure to check with your insurance as most policies cover a breast pump free of charge!

• Electric Pumps: These are efficient and can save you time. You will get the best results with a pump like the Spectra S1.

  If convenience is a factor you can opt for a hands-free pump such as the Momcozy M5. The output on hands-free ones are usually less.
  

Remember to check with your insurance before purchasing yourself!

• Manual Pumps: These are portable and great for occasional use. Some moms even place the haakaa on their opposite breast while they are breastfeeding to collect let-down.
  

• Tip: ask to see the lactation consultant after your baby is born if your hospital has one. They will give you lots of info. Have your nipple size measured if you plan on pumping so you can be sure you get a correct fit for the flanges.

  
  

High Chair

Once your baby starts eating solids, a high chair becomes necessary. Look for one that is easy to clean and has adjustable features. Make sure to check the dimensions of it because some chairs have legs that go out really wide (hello tripping hazard!).

• Convertible High Chairs: These can grow with your child and be used as a regular chair later on. A top rated chair is the Stokke Tripp Trapp. It grows with your child and comes in many different colors. There are even attachments for your infant to be placed in.

Bibs, Plates, and Utensils

Silicone bibs are easy to clean with many being dishwasher safe. Silicone plates are also great but be warned they can pick up the scent of dishwasher detergent. Stainless steel plates don't have this issue and are another great option. You'll want to go with trusted well known brands for eating supplies to ensure they are non-toxic and avoid any random brands. We use Dirty Labs as our dish detergent which is unscented and a safer option for your family.

• Bibs: Silicone bibs are the way to go. The Baby Bjorn bib is great because it is structured and your baby isn't as likely to play with it spilling food everywhere. Some other great silicone brands are LALO and Mushie.

  
  

• Plates: Look for plates and bowls with suction cups at the bottom to avoid them getting knocked off the high chair tray. LALO makes a great suction plate. Be sure to check the dimensions of your high chair table to make sure the surface has enough room for the suction part.

  
  

• Utensils: Silicone utensils are great to start with. Check out the brand EzPz for their sets. We love the EzPz tiny spoon set.
  

• Sippy Cups: Munchkin 360 perfect for learning since they are spill-proof. Just make sure you pull them apart completely before washing!

  • Plastic ones with handles are great for learning

  • Stainless steel without handles are great once they get the hang of the cup
    

• Dishwasher Detergent: We love Dirty Labs which is a cleaner safer option. It comes in unscented so it doesn't make the silicone dishes pick up any scent.

  
  

Safety Gear: Keeping Your Baby Secure

Safety is a top priority for new parents. Here are some essential safety items to consider.

Baby Monitor

A baby monitor allows you to keep an eye and ear on your baby while they sleep.

• We love the simplicity of a basic monitor that doesn't rely on Wifi or Bluetooth, enabling us to use it anywhere with just a power cord. The DXR-8 PRO by Infant Optics is our pick! We use a floor stand instead of mounting it directly to the wall.
  

• If you prefer more high-tech there are lots of other options but consider looking for one that also comes with a separate monitor so you don't have to use your phone for the monitor screen.

Safety Gates

As your baby grows and starts to crawl, safety gates become essential for keeping them safe from stairs and other hazards.

• Pressure-Mounted Gates: These are easy to install and remove. Never use these at the top of stairs.
  

• Hardware-Mounted Gates: These are more secure and ideal for high-traffic areas.

  • We love the brand Toddleroo by North States. These high-quality gates are made in the USA using materials that are safe for your baby.

We have an extra long Toddleroo 3-in-1 Metal Superyard gate and completely gated off our entire living room making it a "safe zone" once our first became mobile.

Outlet Covers and Corner Guards

Protect your baby from potential hazards around the house.

• Outlet Covers: These prevent little fingers from exploring electrical outlets. Safety First is a reliable brand.
  

• Corner Guards: These soften sharp edges on furniture, reducing the risk of injury. We use soft foam ones that match the color of our table. There are many different types of corner guards available.

Health & Safety

Learn CPR and how to handle choking emergencies. Make sure you have a first aid kit and a thermometer.

• Thermometer: We use the Braun Thermoscan Thermometer. There are newer models that connect to your phone as well. Just make sure you stock up on the covers for it because it won't work without them.
  

• LifeVac Device: Hopefully you will never have to use this but it is always good to keep it handy in case of a choking emergency. We keep ours in the kitchen cabinet and also have one at the grandparent's house. Visit their website here.
  

• Medicines: When your baby is old enough and you need to stock your medicine cabinet check out the brands Genexa and Zarbees. They make "cleaner" options. Just be sure to check the expiration dates because they tend to expire quicker. Genexa also makes a great clean and dye-free antacid to help with that pregnancy heartburn. Of course always check with your doctor before taking any medicines.

  
  

Bath Time Essentials: Making Bathing Safe and Fun

Bath time can be a joyful experience for both you and your baby. Here are some essentials to make it safe and enjoyable.

Baby Bathtub

A baby bathtub provides a safe space for your little one during bath time.

• Infant Bathtubs: We love the Skip Hop Bath Tub. It has an infant sling which allows you to use the tub right from birth. We use it at the sink when they are young and then move them to the big tub later on.
  

• Inflatable Bathtubs: These are portable and great for travel. We have Mommy's Helper Inflatable Bathtub and have used ours on many trips.

  
  

Bath Toys

Bath toys can make bath time more enjoyable for your baby.

• Floating Toys: These can help engage your baby and make bathing fun. Make sure toys are easy to clean and avoid toys that could harbor mold growth. Those rubber ducks that have the hole for water at the bottom will eventually end up growing mold.
  

• Rinsing Cup: Skip Hop makes a whale rinsing cup that matches the whale tub.
  

• Spout Cover: Protects your little one from bumping their head on the bathtub faucet. Skip Hop Bath Essentials Set has everything you need.

Bathing

You'll want to use baby-safe products. See below for our top recommendations.

• Body Wash & Lotion: Ella Ola is certified by the National Eczema Association and EWG. We love their Baby Shampoo and Body Wash, Hydrating Baby Lotion, and Moisturizing Face Cream.
  

• Hair Brush: Ella Ola Natural Bamboo Brush & Comb Set.
  

• Bath Towels & Washcloths: Look for a hooded towel and soft organic washcloths.

On-the-Go Gear: Convenience for Busy Parents

When you’re out and about with your baby, having the right gear can make all the difference. Here are some items to consider.

Diaper Bag

A well-organized diaper bag is essential for outings. Look for one with multiple compartments to keep everything in order.

• Backpack Style: These are comfortable to carry and leave your hands free. We love the Lululemon New Parent Backpack diaper backpack. This is perfect for both Moms and Dads.
  

• Tote Style: These are stylish and easy to access. Tip- add an organizer inside to make finding products easier.

  
  

Portable Changing Pad

A portable changing pad allows you to change your baby’s diaper anywhere.

• Disposable Pads: We use these Peek-A-Poo Changing Pads on public changing tables and at home for messy diaper changes. Easy to just throw away after use. Always keep a few of these in your diaper bag!

  
  

Car Seat

A car seat is a must-have for transporting your baby safely in a vehicle. Consumer Reports is a great resource for car seat reviews. You do not need a login to access their car seat safety section. All car seats must meet certain safety requirements to be sold in the U.S. but some have additional safety features like stability legs, side impact protection, rigid latch connectors, etc. The materials used in some fabrics for flame retardants can be toxic as well so chemicals used in the fabric is something else to consider. Brands such as Nuna use wool which is naturally flame retardant eliminating the need for added chemicals.

• Infant Car Seats: These are designed for newborns and can be used in a stroller. You will likely need an adapter for it to click into the stroller.

  • We love the Nuna Pipa Aire RX with RELX base. The car seat can be installed with or without the base and is great for travel. This is one of the lightest car seats on the market.
    

• Convertible Car Seats: These can be used as your child grows, offering longevity.

  • We love the Nuna Rava. If you have 2 cars and want a car seat for each car consider getting one infant seat and one convertible seat.

    
    

  • For travel consider getting a separate car seat that is lighter and easier to travel with. We recommend the Maxi Cosi Romi. The brand Cosco used to make a model called the Scenera Next which was essentially the same seat as the Maxi Cosi Romi but at a much lower price point. Main difference is Maxi Cosi is flame retardant free while Cosco is not. However this model has been discontinued and replaced with the slightly larger Cosco Scenera Extend. The Romi fits in most airplane seats (we have used it on multiple flights) but I cannot confirm if the new Cosco Scenera Extend fits.

    
    

Some Helpful Tips in Preparing for Parenthood

As you prepare for the arrival of your baby, investing in the right gear can make your journey smoother and more enjoyable. From essential items like cribs and diapers to safety gear and feeding supplies, each piece of gear plays a vital role in your baby's comfort and safety.

Remember, every family is unique, and your needs may vary. Focus on what works best for you and your baby, and don’t hesitate to seek advice from other parents or professionals. Embrace the adventure of parenthood, and enjoy every moment with your little one!

Some of the best times to purchase big ticket items are during special sales since big brands like Nuna and UppaBaby rarely ever go on sale. Take advantage of special offers from stores like Bloomingdale's when they have their gift with purchase sales (Free to join program, get $25 gift card for every $100 spent). You can buy the stroller and get gift cards with the purchase to use towards the car seat. The gift cards usually have an expiration date so be sure to check that.

For furniture, if you are purchasing it all from the same store, look into applying for the store credit card. Some stores, such as Pottery Barn Kids, offer special financing or the option to receive a percentage back in credit to use for future purchases (be sure to read the fine print).

Stock up on diapers and wipes during sales. Target frequently offers sales such as $30 gift card for $100 diaper & wipe purchase through their Target Circle program (free to join). We always buy 2 big boxes of Honest wipes + a small box to get to the $100 requirement. It will seem like alot of wipes but you'll be surprised at how fast you go through them.