I’m often asked by new parents for my recommendations on the best baby products. With so many options and advertisements out there, it can be hard to know which swaddle, pacifier, or gadget is actually worth purchasing. When I was pregnant with my first, I was right there too, deep in research mode and carefully building our baby registry so we’d feel prepared to bring a tiny human home.
However, after having my own children, I’ve learned that having the right gear matters far less than having a plan for support. The first few months are hard, and you aren’t meant to do this alone. Talk through plans with your partner, if you have one, and reach out to your network of family and friends ahead of time to line up help.
When visitors come to see the baby, their role should be to support you by bringing food, helping with household tasks, or running errands, not just holding the newborn. It’s also important to plan ahead so that each parent gets at least 4 to 5 hours of uninterrupted sleep at night. Many families do this by taking shifts between partners or by bringing in outside support.
As for the gear you truly need to bring your baby home, the list is actually quite short: a safe sleep space labeled “crib” or “bassinet,” a car seat, diapers and wipes, and a few onesies. Other items, like a baby carrier, stroller, swing, or diaper bag, can be very helpful for many families but aren’t essential right away. Also, most parents find specific gadgets like wipe warmers and bottle sterilizers unnecessary, so I’d recommend leaving them off your list.
Dr. Sarah Wiersma is the owner of PeaPod Pediatrics and a board certified pediatrician and breastfeeding medicine specialist. Schedule a Meet & Greet to meet Dr. Wiersma and find out how pediatric direct primary care can support your family.
