It can be overwhelming to plan for a new baby. There's so many things out there that many say are "necessary," but in reality, you don't really need. Here's my basic, affordable list of baby items that I could not live without as a mom to 3.
Sections
5
Sleep
Clothes
Travel
Daily items
Hygiene
Sleep
Everything baby needs for them to sleep comfortably and safely.
Skip the bassinet and get a pack and play. A pack and play can be a great alternative to a crib if space and/or funds are limited. If you do plan on getting a crib, you probably won't need one right away. They are great for travel or if baby sleeps i...
Baby Trend Lil Snooze Deluxe II Nursery Center Playard, Forest Party Grey
This crib is perfect for anyone on a budget. Not only is it affordable, but it's also adjustable and convertable. This means baby can sleep in here from day one and the crib adjusts as they grow.
Baby Relax Adele 3-in-1 Convertible Crib, White
This crib mattress is perfect. It is affordable and passes all safety standards making it a safe place for baby to sleep.
Kolcraft Pediatric 800 Extra Firm Ultra Deluxe, 80 Coil Baby Crib and Toddler Mattress, White
You might want to grab a couple pack of crib sheets. You'll be changing sheets a lot and you don't want to be doing laundry everyday
A mattress pad is not a necessity, but they are great to have. They help keep your crib mattress clean and help keep baby dry in the event of an accident.
A sound machine is a must have for any sleep routine. Not only does it sooth baby, but helps drown out background noise helping them to stay asleep. Bonus points for the nightlight helping during those middle of the night wake ups!
Yogasleep Nod Sound Machine and Night Light | Sound Machine for Travel, Office Privacy, Sleep Therapy | For Adults & Baby | 101 Night Trial
Clothes
Everything baby needs to keep them comfy and cozy.
My babies lived in sleepers the first couple of months. Especially the ones with the zipper at the feet. It makes those middle of the night diaper changes soooo much better.
Carter's Child of Mine Baby Unisex, Sleep 'n Play, 2-Pack, Sizes Preemie-6/9 months - Walmart.com
I always have white onesies on hand. They are perfect to wear under sleepers or if you have nothing to match your favorite pants or sweat suit.
Gerber Baby Boy or Girl Unisex White Short Sleeve Cotton Bodysuit, 3-Pack, Sizes Preemie - 24 Months - Walmart.com
You are going to need a ton of baby socks. When you think you have enough, buy more. They get lost in the car, outside, between cushions, and the dryer.
Gerber Baby Gender Neutral White Wiggle-Proof Jersey Socks, 4-Pack, Sizes 0/6 Months - 6/12 Months - Walmart.com
Muslin bibs are my favorite. They are easy to keep clean and absorbant. Perfect for drool, spit up, and catching food/drinks.
Gllquen Baby Muslin Bibs for Baby Boys Girls, Organic Muslin Baby Bib for Drooling and Teething, Soft Bandana Drool Bibs 5 Pack, Blue
Travel
Everything you need to help get baby from A to B
This is the perfect affordable travel system. If you are in the market for an infant seat with a stroller this one is great.
Baby Trend Sonar Switch Modular Travel System with EZ-Lift PLUS Infant Car Seat
Did you know that most convertable carseats can be used starting at birth? This one is safety tested for babies as little as 5lbs. But it's also perfect for use after baby outgrows their infant seat as well if you'd rather use an infant seat.
Safety 1st Grow and Go Sprint All-in-One Convertible Car Seat, Cranberry Ice II, Infant & Toddler, Unisex
If you are looking for a stand-alone stroller, this is one for you. It's super lightweight, has a nice storage basket, and folds up small for easy storage.
Costway Foldable Lightweight Baby Stroller Travel Pushchair 0-36 Months Age Group 13 lbs Coffee
I could not recommend a backpack diaper bag enough. Not only are they easy to carry, but they are SPACIOUS. Plus there's pockets to help keep everything organized.
Diaper Bag Backpack,Caveen Multifunctional Mommy Nappy Bags with Insulated Pockets, Waterproof, Large Capacity, Black
Daily items
Everything you're going to be using on a daily basis
A bouncer is an absolute must for me with my babies. It gives you a safe and comfy place to put baby down when you need to. As always, this is not safe place for baby to sleep, but it is a soothing safe place for baby to hang out.
Bright Starts Vibrating Infant Baby Bouncer with Toy Bar, Safari Fun
Need an extra set of hands? This ring sling will be your best friend. It does take a little practice to get the rings set right, but once you do, this is the easiest carrier to just throw on and stick baby in. All of my babies have taken the best nap...
Moby Wrap Ring Sling Baby Carrier in Saffron
Muslin blankets are very versatile. I use them as swaddles, burp clothes, and as a barrier when laying baby on the floor.
Gllquen Baby Muslin Swaddle Blankets Burp Cloths 4-Pack for Girls and Boys Newborn, Star
Make tummy time easy with this tummy time pillow. Put down a muslin blanket, this pillow, and then baby. The contrasting colors will keep baby engaged and help them learn to love tummy time.
Tummy Time Mat with Crinkle Mat & Teethers, Baby Tummy Time Pillow Sitting Support for Newborns with Detachable Support Pillow for 0-6 Months Babies
Hygiene
Everything you need to keep baby clean and healthy
My favorite bath seat! From day one this is what I used to bathe my babies. If you have a big enough kitchen sink, this makes sink baths 10x easier. It also works great in the tub or if you just have a shower.
Angelcare Baby Bathtub Support Seat, Ideal for Babies Less than 6 Months Old, Unisex, Gray, 1 Count
I am a sucker for Dove baby products. This baby wash is gentle, perfect for sensitive skin, and leaves your baby feeling clean while maintaining that new baby scent we all love.
Baby Dove Rich Moisture Hypoallergnic Wash Newborn Sensitive Skin, 13 oz
Just like the Dove baby wash, the Dove baby lotion keeps your little one nice and moisturized while not feeling super heavy on their sensitive skin.