1. A Reliable Sound Machine

A sound machine helps recreate the calming whooshing noises from the womb and helps your baby sleep longer by blocking out everyday household noise. I think it's absolutely necessary for not only at home but on the go. The Hatch is a staple in our house.

Why moms love it:

• Helps with naps and bedtime

• Blocks noise from pets, siblings, doorbells

• Great for travel and nighttime routines

2. Swaddles (Soft Muslin & Velcro)

The most versatile item you’ll ever own. The soft muslin swaddles can be used as nursing covers, burp cloths, light blankets, and stroller covers. I personally have preferred the velcro swaddles for my babies, especially in the middle of the night sleepy haze its nice to have something easy to wrap them up cozy in! The Ollie and Halo velcro swaddles are wonderful choices and have worked beautifully for our girls.

3. A Hands-Free Baby Carrier

Perfect for baby snuggles, soothing fussy moments, and keeping your hands free while still keeping your baby close. Supports bonding, great for contact naps & is so helpful for chores, errands, and outings. While I absolutely love the soft wrap (definitely a learning curve so have some grace and practice a bit first- you'll get the hang of it quick!) I've found the second time around I love the more structured carriers better. The Ergobaby Embrace has been a lifesaver for me. So easy to get on quickly, but soft and still keeps baby nice and close. Baby carriers are probably one of my most used baby items by far!

4. Baby Bath

It's worth purchasing a great baby bath and just remember you'll phase into different styles. At first a tub that has a cozy seat for baby that controls the head would be most ideal. As baby starts to sit up more comfortably and has better head control, there are great tub options for that and then of course we love this collapsible bath seat that we take with us on all of our vacations and to visit our family! It folds up so small and is easy to pack-up for on the go!

5. Portable Changing Pad & Car Back-Up!

When you're on the go, it's nice to have everything you may need just living in your trunk to pull from when you need! This has saved us on so many occasions!

6. Endless Burp Cloths & Bibs!

These babies love to spit up & drool all over everything all the time! Instead of spending tons of money on expensive burp cloths and bibs, I'd go for soft, absorbent and functional so you can have plenty all over your house because you always need them and don't want to have to go searching in the moment! Here are a few of my favorites

7. A Soft Baby Lounger

A convenient safe place for baby to relax while you do life—drink coffee, answer a message, or brush your teeth. (For awake time only!) These are the ones I've loved and used for both of my baby girls!

8. Baby Nail File or Clippers

Tiny nails = tiny scratches. A gentle electric nail file makes trimming much easier and less nerve-wracking.

Why moms love it:

• Safe

• Quick

• Takes away new-mom anxiety

9. Zipper Pajamas (Trust Me on This One!)

Snaps at 2 AM? No thank you. Zipper PJs make diaper changes quick and painless. Easy nighttime changes, cozy and practical & come in adorable patterns. Here are some amazing Kyte dupes that are so soft with that bamboo and stretchy fabric!

10. A Spacious Diaper Bag or Backpack

You want compartments, pockets, insulated bottle areas, and space for everything. I'm also including some organizer pouches which are a game changer. Need to be able to organize your bag so you're not searching all over the place for things and can just grab exactly what you need! And don't forget to always have back-up change of clothes for YOU!

Bonus Baby Essentials

• Pacifier clips

• A stroller caddy

• Baby bath support

• Bottle drying rack

• Manual breast pump

• Nursing pillow

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