Preparing for a baby can feel overwhelming — there are so many products out there, and it’s hard to know what you actually need versus what just looks cute.
The truth? Babies don’t need everything — they need the right things.
This list of 10 baby essentials focuses on items that make life easier for new parents, keep baby comfortable, and are used daily. These are practical, parent-approved, and perfect whether you’re preparing for your first baby or refreshing your essentials.
Let’s simplify it 🤍
🍼 1. Bottles (Even if You’re Breastfeeding)
Even if you plan to exclusively breastfeed, having bottles on hand is essential.
Why you need them:
✔ Allows partner or caregiver to help
✔ Helpful for pumped milk
✔ Great for flexibility
Look for bottles with slow-flow nipples and anti-colic design. Below are my personal favorite.
👉 Click to buy on amazon.com🇺🇸- 4 oz Avent Natural Response baby bottles
👉 Click to buy on amazon.ca🇨🇦- 4 oz Avent Natural Response baby bottles
As someone who tried every bottle, you can trust me when I say these are the best. Trying to find the right nipple for your baby can be tricky (because every drinker is different), but avent created nipples to suit every babies needs.
👉 Click to buy on amazon.com 🇺🇸- 9 oz Avent Natural Response baby bottles
👉 Click to buy on amazon.com 🇺🇸- 9 oz Avent Natural Response baby bottles
👉 Click to buy on amazon.com 🇺🇸- Avent Bottle Holders; allows baby to learn how to hold their own bottle.
👉 Click to buy on amazon.ca 🇨🇦- 9 oz Avent Natural Response bottles
👉 Click to buy on amazon.ca 🇨🇦- Avent Natural Response Nipples (Different levels)
👉 Click to buy on amazon.ca 🇨🇦- Avent Bottle Holders; allows baby to learn how to hold their own bottle.
🧷 2. Diapers + Wipes (The Obvious Must-Have)
You’ll go through a lot — especially in the newborn stage.
Tips:
✔ Try a few brands to see what works
✔ Stock newborn + size 1
✔ Keep wipes everywhere (diaper bag, car, living room)
👉 Click to buy on amazon.ca – Huggies are my personal favorite
👉 Click to buy on amazon.ca – Huggies fragrance free wipes
👕 3. Zip-Up Sleepers & Sleepsacks (Skip the Snaps!)
These will be your baby’s everyday outfit.
Why parents love them:
✔ Easy diaper changes
✔ Comfortable for baby
✔ Perfect for day & night
Double zippers are a GAME CHANGER. Especially Kyte Baby’s Bamboo sleep bags or Pyjamas
👉 Click to shop on Kytebaby.com– My favorite baby sleep bag (in Oat)
🛏 4. Safe Sleep Space (Crib, Bassinet, or Pack & Play)
A safe place for baby to sleep is essential.
Look for:
✔ Firm mattress
✔ Breathable sides
✔ Easy access for night feeds
Follow safe sleep guidelines — baby on their back, no loose items.
👉 Click to buy on amazon.com 🇺🇸- Baby bedside bassinet
👉 Click to buy amazon.ca 🇨🇦- My favorite bedside bassinet for newborns
🍼 5. Pacifiers
Not every baby takes one — but when they do, it’s magic.
Why they help:
✔ Soothing
✔ Helps baby settle
✔ Can reduce risk of SIDS
Tip: try a few styles.
🧴 6. Baby Skincare Essentials
Keep it minimal:
- gentle baby wash
- fragrance-free lotion
- diaper cream
Why less is more:
✔ Protects sensitive skin
✔ Prevents irritation
✔ Safe for everyday use
👉 Click to buy on amazon.ca 🇨🇦
🧺 7. Changing Station Essentials
You don’t need a fancy table — just a setup that works.
Include:
✔ changing pad
✔ wipes
✔ diapers
✔ diaper cream
✔ small basket or caddy
Having multiple stations around the house helps A LOT.
🚗 8. Infant Car Seat
This is a non-negotiable.
Why it matters:
✔ Required to leave the hospital
✔ Keeps baby safe
✔ Peace of mind for parents
Make sure it’s properly installed and compatible with your vehicle.
🤍 9. Swaddles or Sleep Sacks
Babies love feeling secure. There are many different brands, types and pricepoints for sleepsacks. My personal favorite is Kyte Baby but I’ve also used and loved many amazon brands.
When comparing Kyte Baby sleep bags to typical Amazon brands, the difference often comes down to material quality, comfort, and longevity. Kyte Baby sleep bags are known for their super-soft bamboo viscose fabric, which stays breathable and cozy without overheating, making them a favorite for sensitive newborn skin. They also tend to have thoughtful design features like two-way zippers for easy diaper changes and more consistent sizing through multiple age ranges.
In contrast, many sleep bags from Amazon vary widely in material and construction. You’ll find some affordable options that work fine for occasional use, but they may not be as durable, breathable, or gentle on skin over time — especially if washed frequently. This doesn’t mean all Amazon sleep bags are inferior, but Kyte’s consistent quality and softness usually stand out, particularly for parents looking for long-term comfort and reliable wear throughout multiple seasons.
Benefits:
✔ Better sleep
✔ Reduces startle reflex
✔ Helps baby feel calm
👉 Click to shop Kyte Baby sleep bag
👉 Click to shop amazon.com🇺🇸- My favorite amazon sleep sack
👉 Click to buy on amazon.ca🇨🇦- Summer 0.5TOG Sleepsack
👉 Click to buy on amazon.ca 🇨🇦 Winter 2.5TOG Sleepsack
👜 10. Diaper Bag (Functional Over Fancy)
A good diaper bag saves your sanity.
Must-have features:
✔ lots of pockets
✔ insulated bottle pockets
✔ easy to clean
✔ hands-free (backpack style is best!)
👉 Click to buy on amazon.ca 🇨🇦
⭐ Bonus Tips for New Parents
- You don’t need everything at once
- Start small — add items as you go
- Every baby is different
- Trust your instincts
- Ask for help 🤍
Final Thoughts
The baby stage is beautiful, emotional, and exhausting — having the right essentials makes a huge difference.
Focus on comfort, safety, and simplicity, and you’ll feel much more confident as a new parent.
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