New parenthood comes with a lot of guarantees: You’re going to need a lot more coffee, you’re going to relish every milestone, and … you’re going to buy a lot of stuff. Like, I mean, a lot a lot. Babies take over every corner of our homes: The kitchen, the bathroom, even the garage becomes an endless sea of strollers, backseat organizers and every contraption you can buy in portable form that also keeps them happy at home.
Yes, babies are a not-so-subtle punch to the wallet. And, that’s where I come in because I know — as you deal with “pregnancy brain” or that sleep-deprived newborn stage — you just want someone, anyone, to tell you what to buy. So, consider it done! I’ve curated 37 great new parent must-haves below including oral care products you need right now, things to keep your closet and stroller organized, and the sweetest socks you ever did see.
Sweet Feet
This four-pack of baby socks are the cutest things you’ll for sure lose in your washing machine. I kid, I kid, but not about the “cute” part. These come with sayings like, “If you can read this … bring me some milk,” and “Of course I’m cute … look at my mom.” These are great for sizes up to 12 months for boys or girls and, of course, another new parent would love them as a baby gift.
Nanny In Your Pocket
Most of us can’t afford full-time nannies. Heck, some of us probably can’t afford part-time nannies. But, most of us can probably swing the $20 Pocket Nanny, which helps new parents remember baby care details like the last time the baby was changed or the next time baby needs to eat. There’s a lot to keep track of with a newborn in this house; this makes it much simpler.
Bathing Beauty
Bath time: Some babies love it, some babies hate it. For parents, it’s all about getting it done as quickly and as mess-free as possible. This baby bath shower head is like having a second pair of hands at bath time. Use it in the bathtub or the sink to help get your baby rinsed from head to toe. The adorable elephant design comes in a variety of color combinations.
Sponge Down
You don’t want anything but the best to touch your baby’s skin. These natural sponges are a great alternative to washcloths because they are ultra-absorbent and sized specifically for your baby. They’re also eco-friendly, sourced from soft sea wool for delicate skin. One reviewer said, “Best baby sponge ever. Have used it for nearly three months now. Still proving to be the best.”
To The Teeth
Dental care for your baby doesn’t have to wait until you start seeing those tiny teeth poke through. You can start caring for baby’s teeth and gums right from the start. These tooth tissues have a subtle bubble gum flavor and are meant for you to just wipe baby’s mouth after feedings, before bedtime, and throughout the day and then toss in the trash.
Brush It Off
About the time your kiddo mumbles, “I do it myself,” you need to break out this baby toothbrush. According to the manufacturer, the best time for that is when the front teeth poke out and appear. This brush features all-around bristles for an all-around clean, a feature that prompts it to be described as the “Can’t-Miss Toothbrush.” Buy it in a one-count up to a six-count pack.
Sugar, Sugar
Does the idea of a toothbrush scare the bejeebers out of your little one? Ease them into it with this Baby Buddy oral care system. It includes five stages for taking care of teeth as soon as they appear including tooth tissues, a silicone finger brush, a silicone wipe-n-brush, baby’s first toothbrush, and a toothbrush with bristles all the way around the head. If that’s not enough, the book “Sugar Bugs,” is included to make oral health fun to learn about.
A Sweet Tooth
Have you ever chewed your toothbrush? C’mon, you can admit it; most of us have. This brush, dubbed “baby’s first toothbrush,” is designed to simply get little ones comfortable and familiar with the process of brushing their teeth. This soft chewable toothbrush is great for teething and massaging tender gums. Child-controlled, the innovative H-shaped, six-sided brush gently cleans and massages upper and lower teeth and gum simultaneously.
On A Short Leash
I know what you’re thinking: I’d never put a “leash” on my kid! Hey, wait until you’re trying to walk through a store with a screaming toddler, would you? This toddler tether is actually borderline genius because it keeps your little one near while giving them just enough independence to make them happy. This one attaches at the wrist and has three feet of lead.
Clean Up Your Closet
If you have older children, you know the headache of sorting through a closet going, “Nope, outgrew that,” or “That doesn’t fit just yet.” These closet organizers take the hassle out of getting your kiddo dressed, with labeled dividers from newborn to size 8. The set includes 10 dividers with pre-printed removable labels so you can customize these exactly how you want.
A Bib Buddy
Sooner or later, you’ll find yourself out at a restaurant or a family member’s house with no bib. And, you’re really going to need a bib. These bib clips will turn anything from a napkin to a dish towel into a bib to keep the spills and dribbles away. These come in a variety of colors (if you care about that sort of thing) and will stay in place even if tugged on.
La Petite Creme For La Petite Bottom
Who better to go to for all of your baby needs than moms themselves? La Petite Creme was made in the USA by two French moms using the traditional French diapering lotion and balm recipe. The formula contains only organic ingredients ensuring the safety of your baby’s sensitive skin. They even threw in a travel size lotion for your diaper bag! All of this is available at an affordable price. What’s not to love? Grab a set for your friends too while you can!
Nothing But Net
You may not be there yet but I’m going to warn you now: Stuffed things are about to take over your house. Bears, elephants, dolls, more bears. You’re going to be outnumbered … and soon. Keep them corralled with this hammock organizer, which is designed to hold up to 25 pounds of fluffy critters and other toys. Snag it in blue or pink.
Tooth For A Tooth
Give your little ones the gift of a lifetime of healthy smiles with this oral care set. This kit includes brushes that will make your kids love to brush including tooth tissues, silicone toothbrushes, and a more “grown-up” toothbrush with 360-degree bristles. One reviewer said, “Great products and cheaper to buy all at once!!! Highly recommend investing in this for your baby’s oral health!”
Gum Shoe
O.K., I promise, this is the last tooth-related item on this list (I think) but I can’t stress enough the importance of good oral hygiene right from the beginning. Don’t let your kid become an adult with terrible teeth. This finger toothbrush with case will allow you to clean your baby’s entire mouth from as early as three months old.
Stroll Around
One of the greatest things you’ll buy as a parent is a stroller. That’s because not only will it keep your kid contained but it’s also a great place to stash your stuff for a mostly hands-free experience. This stroller organizer attaches to any vertical or horizontal handlebar to keep essentials within reach. It features multiple compartments and an insulated cup holder for cold or hot beverages.
Baby Under Cover
Ya know that lady at Walmart who wouldn’t stop touching and breathing on your infant? This car seat canopy is a good way to (passive-aggressively) say, “Back off, gal.” The best part is that you can also use this super-stretchy canopy as a nursing cover, car seat cover stroller cover, high chair cover, or shopping cart cover. I just love multipurpose gadgets!
Wrapped Tight
If you’ve never gotten into swaddling, you need to run to Google right now and read up on it. This muslin swaddle blanket works great for creating a baby burrito for photos or nighttime but will grow with your little one so they can use this blanket forever (or for as long as it’s in one piece). These earth-toned colors are spectacular, too.
Have A Splash With This Princessea Baby Water Pad!
Tummy time has never been so bubbly! Take your baby on a deep sea adventure with this 100% leak-proof Princessea baby water pad that was mer-made to learn. This travel-friendly set is built with BPA-free materials, making it the perfect baby shower gift. It comes with sensory toddler-safe toys that boost brain development and plenty of colorful space to strengthen their arm muscles. Did I mention it also comes with 1 hairband and 1 fruit pacifier feeder? They truly thought of it all. Better grab yourself a few sets while you can!
Feast Your Eyes On This
These baby food freezer trays are so versatile even if you’re not the make-my-own-baby-food type of parent. In fact, I have one of these trays that I use to make egg bites in my Instant Pot so even after your child outgrows use for this, you’ll still have ways to put it to good use. These trays come in two sizes and four colors.
Feeding Frenzy
One of the saddest — and happiest — days of your life will be when your baby starts feeding themselves. These self-feed baby utensils are designed to prevent choking or gagging, thanks to their star shape, and have ergonomic handles that make it simpler for tiny hands to hold. These are dishwasher-safe, which adds to their convenience, especially for busy parents.
Safety First
The time to babyproof your house is probably before the baby makes his or her appearance but if you haven’t, don’t sweat it! “Now” is the right time to buy these child-proof cabinet and drawer latches, which are easy to install with no drilling required. This pack includes 16 locks and three keys as well as strong adhesive tape to keep things in place.
Repress The Mess
This all-over bib for tiny tots should be big enough to cover the entire kitchen but alas, it only covers your kiddos and their entire high chair … and I suppose that’s OK. Available in five colors and patterns, this waterproof option is designed to cover all of the baby and all of the chair for the easiest clean-up you’ll ever experience.
Get Some Sleep
Has anyone purchased the book, “Go The #&!@ To Sleep,” for you yet? (You can purchase it here.) Anyway, even if you don’t buy the book, you’re going to mutter it under your breath approximately 1,427 times in the first year alone. This magic sleepsuit might also help since it helps transition your infant from swaddling to a more traditional sleep style with ease.
Better Than Burp Cloths
Phew, burp cloths today look like tiny pieces of art compared to how they looked 20 years ago. This set from Dodo Babies features five cloths as well as a pacifier case and two clips. This set is modern in shades of blue, black, and gray. Noticeably absent? Frogs, ducks, princesses, and the like. These are made from organic cotton and are backed by polyester fleece.
Food For Thought
Most homemade baby food options come in somewhere around 14 to 40 cents per serving, depending on the fruits and vegetables you’re using. Have you priced baby food in the stores? It’s not 14 to 40 cents per serving. This set of four six-ounce food storage containers will save you a bundle. They also come with airtight locking lids for convenience.
Bowled Over
Babies who are just learning to feed themselves also really enjoy taking the plate or bowl they’re eating from and tossing it on the floor. #IYKYK This divided silicone suction bowl keeps the bowl at least exactly where it’s supposed to be; whether or not the food makes it to their mouths is another matter entirely. This comes in teal, blush, and gray.
Pad Down
Maybe not today but one day soon that self-contained baby you can put down anywhere with no worries about them rolling over or falling over … that’s going to end. And, they’re going to be everywhere. Control diaper time with this baby changing pad with a secure strap that keeps the wiggles at bay. The manufacturer says the swaddling strap also can work to comfort the baby, keeping tantrums to a minimum.
White Noise Wonder
You don’t have to be a baby to appreciate white noise; I’m 44 and still use a sound machine most times I’m traveling. This one has a compact size with large, 3D controls right on the housing and plenty of bonus features including a built-in nightlight, auto shut-off timer, and portability, thanks to its battery-friendly design. Babies can enjoy shushing, heartbeat, and white noise sounds from this device.
Nailed It
Baby fingernails are one step away from cat claws in terms of how sharp those little buggers can be … and clipping them? Well, let’s just say, that’s a fate worse than death. This nail trimmer safely grinds those bad boys down while protecting the skin and keeping your tiny joy from turning into a tiny terror. This set includes 18 grinding heads suitable for both babies and adults.
Carry A Load
If you’ve never experienced the agony of carrying a 20-pound sleeping child through Walmart while you’re trying to buy groceries, just wait — it’s coming. When it does (or even before), you’re going to want this ergonomic convertible carrier that works for babies from eight to 32 pounds. Hands-free convenience is just $25 and a few mouse clicks away.
Mirror, Mirror
I know, I know, you’re supposed to keep your eyes on the road but new parents especially can’t resist the urge to catch a glimpse of their tiny bundle of joy. This rearview mirror will let you do so without creating a pile-up on the interstate. The large size with a convex shape by design, so you’ll be able to view your baby from head to toe.
Diaper Duty
There are so many uses for this diaper caddy, from keeping the nursery organized to taking supplies on the road to purchasing as a thoughtful gift for an expectant parent you know. This versatile caddy is lightweight and durable and sized in such a way that it’ll hold a ton. Once the baby has outgrown the need for this, use it for storage for crafts or other items.
Protect Their Neck
Babies are pretty helpless. They can’t feed themselves, keep themselves clean or make it to the bathroom. (C’mon, babies, get it together!) They also have floppy necks that need to be protected. This two-in-one neck and body support pillow is a hug of protection around them when they’re in a car seat. This comes in three colors and patterns and has a double layer of cushioned protection for both neck and body.
A Paci Pal
It’s only a matter of time before your baby tosses their pacifier somewhere, anywhere, beyond their reach … usually to get a reaction. And, oh boy, will you react. This pacifier holder has an adorable lovey like a dragon, a penguin, or a koala that’s both functional and cuddly. This purchase includes a pacifier or you can add your own, and it’s completely washable in the washing machine.
Wiped Out
Boy, babies are entitled, aren’t they? They expect to be fed on a schedule, changed when they cry, and please, for the love of all things pure and holy, don’t use a cold baby wipe on their bum. This wipe warmer and dispenser makes changing time more enjoyable while keeping your wipes moist. It also has a built-in nightlight for those middle-of-the-night blowouts.
That’s A Wrap
When did wrap swaddles stop looking like straight jackets and start looking like a luxury boutique purchase? Fortunately, these swaddles don’t come with boutique pricing plus they zip open and closed for convenience. With patterns for both boys and girls, these swaddles are sold in a three-pack that will end up costing you about $10 per piece. Grab them in small/medium and large sizes.
Splash Pad
There’s nothing more adorable than a baby enjoying tummy time, especially if they have something bright and colorful to look at like this inflatable water mat. Stimulate their mind and senses with eye-catching graphics and a host of other features like a built-in mirror, floating fish, and rattles. This has an extra-large play area and is easy to tote around since you can blow it up and add water anywhere you go.
Don’t Forget The Keys
Don’t forget the baby’s keys, that is! These gel teether keys are the perfect solution for a teething baby who’s feeling uncomfortable. Pro tip: Put these in the refrigerator for an added dose of “cool.” The easy-grip design is ideal for little hands and helps with coordination, making this a total win-win purchase. Even better, you can purchase one for less than $4 and have it shipped right to your door.