As a new mom, I quickly realized that must-have baby products can make life so much easier. With so many recommendations, I found that some items were lifesavers, while others just collected dust. To help you save time and money, here are the 10 must-have baby products that I actually used and loved as a first-time mom! I’ve included budget-friendly options and links to where you can buy them!
10 Must-Have Baby Products
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1. Swaddle Blankets – A Must For Better Sleep
Swaddling is a lifesaver in those first few months! It helps prevent the startle reflex, keeps your baby cozy, and promotes better sleep. If you struggle with wrapping a traditional swaddle (I definitely did!), I highly recommend zip-up or Velcro swaddles—no complicated folding required!
Why Swaddle Blankets Are Must-Have Baby Products
- Helps baby sleep longer – Prevents wake-ups from sudden movements
- Easy to use – No tricky wrapping, just zip or Velcro, and done!
- Mimics the womb – Creates a snug, comforting feel
I personally loved the Love to Dream Swaddle because it lets babies sleep with their hands up, which is a more natural position for many newborns. It made a huge difference in our sleep routine!
😴 Ready for better sleep?
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Click here to check it out on Amazon!
2. Sound Machine – A Sleep Game Changer
A sound machine is one of the best investments for better sleep—for both your baby and you! White noise helps muffle household sounds, creating a calming, womb-like environment that soothes babies and encourages longer stretches of sleep.
Why a Sound Machine is an essential:
- Blocks out background noise – No more waking up from doorbells or barking dogs
- Mimics the womb – White noise helps babies feel safe and comforted
- Built-in night light – Perfect for middle-of-the-night feedings
We’ve used the Hatch Rest Sound Machine since day one, and I swear by it! It has customizable sound settings, a soft night light, and even a time-to-rise feature for when your baby grows older.
😴 Ready for better sleep?
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Click here to check it out on Amazon!
3. Infant Car Seat – The Non-Negotiable Essential
An infant car seat is one of the most important baby products you’ll need—hospitals won’t even let you leave without one! But beyond safety, choosing the right car seat can make a huge difference in convenience and ease of use.
What to look for in an infant car seat:
- Meets all safety standards – Rear-facing, side-impact tested, and properly cushioned
- Lightweight & easy to install – Because no one wants to struggle with buckles
- Compatible with a travel system – Saves time when transitioning from car to stroller
We went with the Graco Modes Nest Travel System, and it’s been a lifesaver. The infant car seat clicks directly into the stroller, making errands and outings effortless—no waking up a sleeping baby!
🚗 Make every ride safe & stress-free!
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Click here to check it out on Amazon!
4. Baby carrier – A Must-Have for Hands-Free Comfort
If you have a fussy baby who always wants to be held (hello, Velcro baby!), a baby carrier is a lifesaver. Whether you’re trying to get things done around the house, running errands, or traveling, babywearing keeps your little one close while giving you the freedom to move.
Why You’ll Love a Baby Carrier:
- Hands-free convenience – Get things done while keeping the baby happy
- Soothes fussy babies – the closeness mimics the womb for comfort
- Great for travel & outings – no need to lug a stroller everywhere
I personally used the Momcozy Baby Carrier and the Infantino Flip Advanced 4-in-1 Carrier, and it made my life so much easier – especially during those early months when my baby refused to be put down! It’s comfortable, easy to adjust, and offers great support for both mom and baby making it a must-have baby product for moms.
Ready to make life easier with baby-wearing?
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Click here to check it out on Amazon!
5. Diaper Bag Backpack – Stay Organized on the Go
A diaper bag is an everyday essential for new moms, so choosing the right one is key! I highly recommend a diaper bag backpack over a traditional shoulder bag – it’s hands-free, spacious, and way more comfortable to carry.
Why a Diaper Bag Backpack is a Must-Have:
- Hands-free convenience – No more juggling a baby and a slipping shoulder bag
- Tons of storage – plenty of space for diapers, wipes, bottles and extras
- Insulated bottle pockets – keep milk/formula warm on the go
I personally love the Babbleroo Diaper Bag Backpack because it’s not only functional but stylish too! It has tons of compartments. a built-in changing pad, and comfortable straps for all-day wear.
Ready to upgrade your diaper bag?
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Click here to check it out on Amazon!
6. Electric Nail Trimmer – A Game Changer for Newborns
Trimming a newborn’s nails can feel nerve-wracking – those tiny fingers and sharp nails are a tricky combo! Instead of using traditional nail clippers (which can be scary and imprecise), I found that an Electric Baby Nail Trimmer is the safest and easiest solution.
Here’s why I highly recommend it:
- Safe & Gentle – no risk of cutting baby’s skin
- Super Quiet – perfect for trimming while baby sleeps
- Multiple grinding heads – adjusts as baby grows
I’ve been using mine since day one and it’s been a total lifesaver – no more accidental scratches on baby’s face! If you want a stress-free way to keep your little one’s nails short, check it out here.
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Click here to check it out on Amazon.
7. Breast Pump – A Must for Nursing & Pumping Moms
Whether you’re building a freezer stash, exclusively pumping, or just need relief from engorgement, a great breast pump is essential.
What to Look for In a Breast Pump:
- Hospital-grade suction – efficient and comfortable pumping
- Portable & lightweight – ideal for moms on the go
- Easy to clean – fewer parts = less washing
Most insurance plans cover a free breast pump, but if you’re looking for an extra one, I highly recommend the Spectra S1 Breast Pump. It’s quiet, powerful, and has a rechargeable battery– perfect for pumping anywhere around the house!
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Click here to check it out on Amazon!
8. Portable Changing Pad – A Diaper Change Essential
If there’s one thing you’ll be doing a lot, it’s diaper changes—so having a portable changing pad is a must! Whether you’re changing diapers around the house or out in public (because let’s be honest, those public restroom changing tables are questionable at best), a wipeable, compact pad makes things so much easier.
Why Every Mom Needs One:
- Keeps diaper changes clean & sanitary – No direct contact with surfaces
- Lightweight & foldable – Fits easily in any diaper bag
- Easy to wipe down – No need to worry about messes
I keep one in the nursery, one in the diaper bag, and a spare in the car—trust me, you won’t regret having extras! If you’re looking for a durable, easy-to-clean option, I love the Skip Hop Pronto Changing Pad.
🚼 Never get caught without a clean changing space!
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Click here to check it out on Amazon!
9. Baby Bath Support – A Must-Have for Stress-Free Bath Time
Giving your newborn their first bath is such a special moment, but without the right support, it can be nerve-wracking! A baby bath support makes the process safer, easier, and more comfortable for both you and your little one.
Getting a baby bathtub was one of the best decisions we made, here’s why I highly recommend using one:
- Keeps baby secure – No slipping or sliding
- Hands-free convenience – Frees up your hands for washing
- Grows with baby – Many models come with a removable newborn sling
We personally used the Angelcare Baby Bath Support, and it was a game-changer! It cradled my baby in a comfortable, reclined position, making bath time so much easier for me and the baby. Plus it’s lightweight and dries quickly – perfect for small spaces.
🫧Make bath time easier today!
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Click here to check it out on Amazon!
10. White Onesies & Footed Pajamas – The Newborn Wardrobe Essentials
When you first bring your baby home, you probably won’t be dressing them up in fancy outfits every day. Instead, simple, comfy, and practical is the way to go! That’s why white onesies and footed pajamas are absolute must-haves.
Why these basics are essential:
- Easy to layer – Perfect for any weather
- Super soft & comfy – Gentle on newborn skin
- Two-way zippers = game changer – Quick diaper changes, even at 3 AM
For daytime, plain white onesies are great for layering under sleepers or pairing with comfy pants. And at night, I swear by zip-up footed pajamas—no fumbling with snaps during those half-asleep diaper changes!
🍼 Stock up on the essentials!
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Click here to check them out on Amazon!
These are the 10 baby products that I found truly essential. Everything else? Nice to have, but not necessary. What are your must-have baby items? Drop a comment below!
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