Nursery & Baby Gear Survival Guide for New Mamas
As a first-time mom, setting up your baby’s nursery and stocking up on gear can feel totally overwhelming. With so many products on the market, how do you know what’s really essential and what’s just fluff?
Take a deep breath, mama. I’ve got you covered with this no-nonsense guide and checklist to nursery must-haves and baby gear worth the investment. i see so many new moms buying a lot of unnecessary stuff (I know I did too). So let’s break it down by category so you can focus on the key items and skip the clutter. Having just the right basics will help make those early newborn days feel a little more manageable!
Nursery Necessities
For Filipino families, a nursery is a luxury and usually the master bedroom or the living room suffices as the nursery. If youre building for this option, you have to have the size in mind. You’ll want to make it a cozy, safe little haven for the baby but not too cluttered for everyone. So make sure not to go overboard – babies don’t need much besides the essentials in those first months.
Crib – This is baby’s home base for sleeping. You’ll spend a ton of time rocking, shushing and soothing them to sleep here. Opt for a convertible crib that can transition to a toddler and twin bed down the road. For me, this should bwe the biggest spend. If you can only buy one, this is the best investment. I can’t stress this enough. Invest in a good one that is foldable so you can stow them away for future use as well.
Firm Crib Mattress – No cutting corners here! Babies need a firm, flat surface for safe sleep. Look for one that’s waterproof and has a removable cover. Some of those waterproof ones are too hot though. Ig you’re up for it, you can also choose one that is machine washable.
Crib Sheets – You’ll want at least 3-4 fitted sheets to rotate through. Stick to soft cotton in neutral tones that you can mix and match.
That’s really all you need for nursery furniture. Other nice-to-haves could include a changing table, hamper, bookshelf, nightlight and sound machine. But focus on nailing down the basics first.
Diapering & Clothing Essentials
Here’s a mini checklist of must-haves for keeping baby clean, dry and adorably dressed:
- Disposable Diapers (stock up on newborn and size 1) these are much easier to use in the first months
- Cloth Diapers -There are a lot of options now for cloth diapers. They’re machine washable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly.
- Lampin -this is different from cloth diapers These are the Birdseye plain white cloth diaper that’s an all-around blanket, wiper, towel, etc. I’m so in love with these that even if I dont have a baby now I still buy them. 😂
- Unscented Baby Wipes -important! do not buy the scented ones.
- Changing Pad Covers (2)
- Onesies and Sleepers (at least 3-6 of each in newborn size) Do not buy a lot. They’re so easily outgrown.
- Socks and Caps
- Swaddle Blanket -just one will do
- Burp Cloths
- Baby Nail Clippers/File
Simple pieces in soft fabrics and gender-neutral colors are best for the first few months. You can always stock up on the frillier outfits later!
Baby Gear Worth the Splurge
Certain big-ticket items really do make those newborn months so much easier, even if they put a little dent in your wallet. Here are a few baby gear essentials that are absolutely worth the investment:
Stroller with Car Seat bundle– Having a smooth ride for baby is key, whether you’re strolling around the neighborhood or running errands. Invest in a high-quality, versatile stroller that will last. Many come in travel system bundles with a car seat. Apart from the crib, this is my second most pricey investment.
Baby Carrier – Babywearing provides hands-free snuggling and allows you to get stuff done. The Ergobaby Omni 360 and Solly Baby wraps are two cult favorites that make great registries gifts.
Baby Monitor – You’ll want to keep ears (and maybe eyes) on baby at all times, even when they’re napping. A quality video monitor with great range gives new parents peace of mind.
White Noise Machine – The shushing sounds can soothe fussy babies and drown out disruptive household noises. The Lectrofan is a top-rated pick.
Swing or Bouncer – Having a safe spot to set baby down when your arms need a break is a gamechanger. Look for swings or bouncers with multiple reclining positions.
Comfortable Glider or Rocking Chair – Those late nights spent feeding, rocking and cuddling call for a cozy glider or rocker. Look for one with great back support!
Baby Gear You Can Skip
On the flip side, there are plenty of baby items that get tons of hype but that you can actually do without:
Changing Table or Dresser – Having a designated changing station makes millions of diaper changes more manageable. A dresser with a removable changing topper is a smart two-for-one. But while convenient, you can easily use a dresser or even the floor for changes.
Wipe Warmer – Warm wipes are a luxury, not a necessity. You can easily warm them up yourself.
Crib Bedding Sets – Loose blankets and bumpers are unsafe for infant sleep. Stick to just fitted sheets.
Tons of Toys – Babies are endlessly entertained by household objects. A few simple toys for playtime is plenty.
Expensive Nursery Decor – Babies don’t care if their nursery looks magazine-worthy. Keep it minimal and affordable.
Baby Bathtub – You can easily bathe newborns in a sink or the tub with you until they can sit up.
At the end of the day, preparing for baby is more about safety, comfort and convenience. Don’t get too caught up in all the extras! Stock up on just the essentials and you’ll be ready to welcome your little one.
Speaking of being ready, don’t forget to sign up for my weekly pregnancy newsletter! I’ll be sharing more tips to prepare you for those first few chaotic (but amazing) months with your newborn.
