ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXY
1
CategoryItemRecAlternative 1Alternative 2How Essential?FSA eligible
2
SleepingBassinetHalo BassinestBabies typically use a bassinet for the first 3-5 months, depending on when they outgrow it. Most parents sleep with the bassinet next to their bed in the beginning, which is why the Halo Bassinest is so popular as it makes this really easy. Some people swear by the SNOO, but it doesn't work for all babies and is pricy. I was given a more traditional bassinet (Rockwell) as a hand-me-down and loved it, but it's not cheap either.Rent or Buy the SNOORockwell BassinetDay 1
3
SleepingBassinet sheets (at least 2)Halo SheetsNice to always have at least one backup when one is in the washSNOO sheetsRockwell sheetsDay 1
4
SleepingSwaddles (at least 3)Babylist SamplerTry 4 different swaddles in the sampler and see which one works best. A few popular options not included in the sampler: SwaddleMe is a very easy-to-use velcro option; Ollie is a very pricy option that many families swear by (I would wait to get this until after trying cheaper options); Miracle Blanket is easy to use and affordable.SwaddleMe
(my personal fave)
Ollie SwaddleDay 1
5
Sleeping
Weighted Swaddle or Transitional Swaddle/Sleep Suit
DreamlandSome babies love the weighted feeling, so consider giving this a try if you're in a rough patch with sleep and the other swaddles aren't cutting it.

Merlin Sleep Suit is a great option for transitioning out of swaddle (usually around 3 months) but before sleep sack, because it still keeps arms fairly immobilized so won't startle themselves awake. Also, makes baby looks like an adorable marshmellow
Merlin SuitNested Bean
(more affordable weighted swaddle, might not work as well)
Optional
6
SleepingCribBabyletto Hudson Convertible Crib
(any model from the Babyletto brand is great)
You could look ahead and get a convertible crib that can be used as a toddler bed later on (but if you're planning to have multiple babies, you'll probably need a separate bed by then anyway)Pottery Barn Kendall CribDa Vinci Crib
(more affordable)
Essential
7
SleepingCrib MattressNewton BabyWe were happy with our Newton mattress, but one cool thing about the Little Dreamer is it has a softer side for toddlers, once firm isn't needed for safetyMoonlight Little DreamerGraco
(more affordable)
Essential
8
SleepingCrib Mattress ProtectorBamboo Quilted ProtectorIn case of leaks!Optional
9
SleepingCrib Sheets (at least 2)Burts BeesLots of options here, so pick ones that will look nice in the nursey. I rec Burts Bees because they are more affordable while being soft and having many pattern options (or you can choose solid colors)Kyte BabyPottery BarnEssential
10
SleepingBaby MonitorNanitI recommend the Nanit because it's able to analzye your baby's sleep patterns to produce useful data, insights and personalized tips. There is a risk that one can get a little too obsessive about this data, but if you're able to maintain a healthy relationship to it, it can be very valuable

If you're planning to have multiple, it's also capable of doing a split screen with an additional camera, which is very useful.
Day 1X
11
SleepingWhite NoiseYogasleep DohmYogasleep is simple and loud (we have them in every bedroom of our house) and all you need for the first year. I like that it's a natural sound from the fan whirling, rather than an electronic sound.

Hatch is fancier and has more settings for both sound and light, but personally I find it overly complicated. However, it can come in handy later in toddlerhood because you can control light/sound remotely to turn on/off when kid wakes (or set a schedule)
HatchDay 1
12
SleepingWhite Noise StuffySound SoothersEspecially in the first weeks, you'll be trying to calm/help your baby sleep in lots of places besides their bedroom (where you should have a more permanent white noise machine set up), so great to be able to carry this around.Optional
13
SleepingFanWiHooEspecially if you don't have AC, it can be nice to clip this fan onto the crib or stroller to ensure baby doesn't overheat. One study has claimed that fan use is associated with lower risk of SIDS, and while there are methodological flaws in this study, there's little downsideOptional
14
SleepingShusherBaby ShusherSometimes you get tired of doing the endless shushing yourselfOptional
15
SleepingBlackout CurtainSleepoutI have tried an embarassing number of blackout curtains and this one works the best thanks to the clips. Ideally this is for travel only, and you install an actual blackout shade or curtain at home that you can more easily draw open during the daytime. It really depends on your window, but you can check out Pottery Barn, Home Depot, the Shade Store, or any other local store that can measure and install custom shadesLight Blocking Tracks
these are really useful if your blackout shade lets too much light through the sides
Optional
16
SleepingPacifierBabylist SamplerPacifiers are all baby's preference, so try out 6 in this sampler pack and then get more of whichever baby likes best. However, my personal favorite pacifier isn't in this box - the Avent Ultra Light (listed in Alternative 1)- if you want to give that tryPhilips Avent Ultra AirDay 1
17
SleepingExercise Ball for BouncingURBNFitBouncing on this ball with baby can be one of the most effective ways to soothe and get them back to sleep. This can also be useful during labor, so consider getting it before baby comesOptional
18
TravelingCar Seat and Stroller SystemUppababyBest to get both from the same brand so you can use car seat in the stroller for the early months, without needing an adaptor. Uppababy is the best, though pricey (but includes a bassinet); Nuna's biggest advantage is the carseat is lighter; and Mockingbird is a cheaper version of the Uppababy but doesn't have a carseat or bassinet.

For all these brands, there is the "convertible" version, which allows for a second seat in the future (e.g. Uppababy Vista), or the single version (e.g. Uppababy Cruz), so decide based on your family plans.

If you have a bad back, consider getting a different, separate car seat such as City Turn which rotates so it's easier to put your baby in. The downside is it won't work with your stroller, but it will make loading and unloading easier on your back. Uppababy's new car seat "Aria" is super light (6 lbs) compared to the older version the Mesa (10 lbs).
NunaMockingbird Stroller
with Uppabbay or Nuna car seat (plus car seat adaptor)

(more affordable)
Day 1
19
TravelingMirror for CarCozy GreensSince carseat is backwards facing for at least the first two yearsDay 1
20
TravelingCarseat ShadeMilk SnobThese can often double as a nursing cover. Most car seats/strollers come with a built-in shade, it just might not provide as full coverageAden and AnaisOptional
21
TravelingBlanketsAden and AnaisThese aren't for sleep (blankets shouldn't be used until after 12 months)- they are more for putting on baby in the car seat or stroller, or for snuggling with them ParadeEssential
22
TravelingStroller AccessoriesUppababyWhich stroller brand you choose will have numerous possible accessories to go with it: most useful is an organizer bag, but you might also consider a drink holder, rain cover, or warm insert (7am Enfant brand is the best for true winter), depending on your needsNunaMockingbirdOptional
23
TravelingStroller LeashStroller LeashThis is useful if you live in a hilly area!Optional
24
TravelingDiaper BagDagne DoverMatter of preference and price. Probably want something gender-neutral so dad feels comfortable with it tooRuvalino BackpackRuvalino ToteDay 1
25
TravelingPortable Changing PadKeababiesPack in diaper bag if it doesn't have one already, or bring traveling Day 1
26
TravelingTravel StrollerDoonaThe Doona is hands down the best option because the stroller collapses into a car seat that doesn't require any additional parts, so you can travel just with this. With all other options, you'll need to travel with both a lightweight stroller and a car seat or car seat base (or if you're rental a car, you can see if rental company can provide the carseat). Uppababy MinuErgobaby
(more affordable)
Optional
27
TravelingTravel CribLotusA major benefit of the Lotus is it's on the ground and has the zippered opening, so you can lay next to baby / hold her hand if she's having trouble falling alseep. It's also lighter than the Pack & Play. The advantage of Pack & Play is it's cheaper and larger, so you could use it through toddlerhood. FYI most hotels and some Airbnbs have cribs available, so you might not always need this.Graco Pack & PlayOptional
28
TravelingTravel Crib Sheets (at least 2)Joey and JoanThese sheets come in different styles and are compatible with Lotus (and any other travel crib)Optional
29
TravelingBaby Wrap/SlingBobaThese are softer/cozier than structured carriers, so especially nice for the first couple months. The Boba and Moby take some time to figure out how to wrap, but the advantage is they can be shared across adults of different sizes. The K'tann is much simpler, but you have to pick a single size.

Natural Resources in SF allows members to try carriers for a week before purchasing.
MobyBaby K'tanDay 1
30
TravelingCarrierErgobaby AerloomYou'll want a carrier that works from newborn through to outward facing; the most popular option is the Ergobaby 360, but I prefer the Aerloom because it's simpler and lighter. Artipoppe is the most trendy and expensive, but it is also extremely comfortable and easy so maybe treat yoself (although it doesn't work for outward facing)

Natural Resources in SF allows members to try carriers for a week before purchasing.
Baby BjornArtipoppeEssential
31
TravelingPortable Baby MonitorEufyUseful to have a monitor that uses bluetooth instead of WiFi if you're not sure what the WiFi situation will be when traveling. Additionally, snag a mount to make it easier to attach (the other brands have equivalents on Amazon too)HiPPVavaOptional
32
TravelingPortable White NoiseYogasleep HushGreat for clipping onto stroller or carseatYogasleep Travel CubeOptional
33
TravelingPortable LightUNIFUN lightWhen you stay overnight at a hotel/Airbnb, you don't know what the lighting situation will be like, so this is great for middle-of-the-night diaper changes or feedsHatch
(doubles as sound machine too)
Optional
34
TravelingPortable Drying RackTermichyUseful for drying bottles, especially if at a hotel or Airbnb where drying options are unknownOptional
35
TravelingPacifier ClipItsy RitzyClip these onto baby when you're in the car or stroller so they don't them. Silicone makes them easy to cleanOptional
36
TravelingPacifier CasePurePouchCan clip onto stroller or diaperbagOptional
37
TravelingEarmuffsBanzUseful for concerts or flightsOptional
38
ClothingOnesies/BodysuitsKyte BabyAt least 6 "newborn" size and 6 "1-3 month" size (and you will still end up doing laundry daily)

Buy a few short sleeve and a few long sleeve.

Optimize for easy diaper changes (e.g. small number of snaps, no buttons), but a couple "fashion over function" options are also nice for photos.

If you're planning to have more kids, get some gender neutral so they'll work as hand-me-downs
Hanna Anderson, Pehr, Mori, Burts Bees and countless othersH&M (my fave in this group), Gap, Gerber, Target
(more affordable)
Day 1
39
ClothingGownsCopper PearlAt least 2 "newborn" size.
These are open at the bottom, so make for really easy late night diaper changes
ParadeGerber
(more affordable)
Optional
40
ClothingFootiesKyte BabyAt least 4 newborn size and 4 "0-3 month" size
Look for options that zip from the bottom or are magnetic
I'd only buy ones with footies, otherwise you'll need to use socks which always fall off!
Emerson & Friends, Magnetic Me, Mori, Noomie, Little SleepiesDay 1
41
ClothingWarmer FootiesCartersFleece footies for going outdoors on chilly daysOptional
42
ClothingSocksBaby GapYou might not use socks too often in the very beginning if baby is often in footies but good to have some for later. These options all stay on quite well.H&M TerryEssential
43
ClothingBootiesZutanoMight not be necessary often if you're using footed clothing often, but nice to have in colder weatherEssential
44
ClothingFleece buntingPatagoniaSo cute and cozyOptional
45
ClothingWarm HatsCopper PearlNumber depends on your climate (for SF, at least 3)Kyte BabyDay 1
46
ClothingSunhatsFurtalkBoth of these hats are great. The Furtalk also provides some warmth during chillier days.Green Sprouts iPlayDay 1
47
ClothingBows/HeadbandsCopper PearlTake advantage of the months when you can dress them as you please before they start resisting things like bowsKyte BabyOptional
48
ClothingBaby SunglassesBabiatorsMostly useful for cute photos, but they also protect their eyes. Some kids will yank them off thoughAZorb
(more affordable, and comes with strap)
Optional
49
ClothingDrool bandana bibsCopper PearlSome kids drool or spit up often, others don't - so I'd wait to see before ordering!ParkerKeababies
(more affordable)
Optional
50
ClothingBaby Laundry HamperOrganiHausDoesn't need to be large or fancy, but easy to throw stuff into. I'd look only for soft options so once baby is mobile it won't hurt them (avoid wicker)Pehr
(cute, pricier)
Langyashan
(more affordable, lots of designs)
Essential
51
ClothingBaby Laundry DetergentDreftIn the first year, baby's skin is especially sensitive so good to use special detergent (and wash any new clothes before first use).BabyganicsDay 1
52
ClothingStain removerDreft
Infancy is messy, so having something at home and something in diaper bag could be useful
BabyganicsEssential
53
Feeding/NursingBurp Cloths (at least 5)Burts BeesBurp cloths are multipurpose and should always be accessible during the early months!Gerber 8-pack
(affordable)
Day 1
54
Feeding/NursingGliderBabyletto Kiwi Glider/ReclinerYou will spend many many hours of your life in this chair, so it's worth getting a comfy one. Having the option to recline is nice, and you'll want either an ottoman or a pull-out footrestDream Glider/ReclinerMilo Glider and Ottoman Day 1
55
Feeding/NursingNursing PillowBoppyBoppy is my rec over the other popular option (My Brest Friend) because even if you don't end up liking it for nursing, it can also be used as a lounger for baby. There are many different design options if you explore around Amazon.Optional
56
Feeding/NursingNursing BrasSTORQThis is really about personal preference - some prefer soft ones you can just pull up or down, others opt for more supportive bras that unlatch; I would start with just one of a couple different styles/brands, and then get more of whichever you like most. Many people also get nursing-specific shirts/dresses, but IMO you can just use normal ones that pull down easily, that may be more usable beyond nursing.Kindred BravelyTarget
(affordable)
57
Feeding/NursingNursing coverCocoon by AmmaThis is a legit stylish shawl that you can nurse baby under in public, or if baby struggles with distraction. It is breathable and can also be used as a carseat/stroller cover to darken for naps (I find it very useful for airplane naps)
58
Feeding/NursingNipple CreamEarth MamaEspecially useful for the first month while your nipples adjust, then might become unnecessaryLansinohEssentialX
59
Feeding/NursingBreast Therapy PacksLansinohThese can be used hot or cold to relieve common breastfeeding problems that occur in the beginning especially, like engorgement or clogged ductsDay 1X
60
Feeding/NursingBreast MassagerLa VieWhile you can definitely just use your hands, a massager can be helpful if you're beginning to feel clogged and need to get milk movingOptionalX
61
Feeding/NursingLactation Teas/CookiesMother's MilkMany people swear by these, others say they didn't help with supply at all; If you like the taste of the tea (it's a little licoricey), then having a few cups a day is a cozy way to stay hydrated. And who doesn't like cookies?!
This is my personal favorite no-bake lactation balls recipes - I popped these all day long: https://thebakermama.com/recipes/no-bake-lactation-bites/
CookiesBrewer's Yeast
(this is key ingredient in lactation balls/cookies recipes)
Optional
62
Feeding/NursingCart or NightstandRolling cartHelpful while nursing to have a place to keep nursing items, snacks, water bottle, sound machine, burp cloths, etc

Advantage of the cart is you can move it from room to room, and the tiers provide more space (drawback is might not look as nice as a real nightstand)
Repurpose an existing nightstand, or buy one that looks nice with nursery furnitureDay 1
63
Feeding/NursingDisposable Nursing PadsMedela DisposableYou're likely to leak milk during the first months, so these are good to put in your bra (and keep a couple in your purse or diaper bag)Day 1X
64
Feeding/NursingWashable Nursing PadsBamboobiesThe disposable ones generate a fair amount of trash, so using washable ones at home can be nice (and they are often softer)LansinohOptional
65
Feeding/NursingPrenatal or Postnatal VitaminsRitualContinue using your prenatal vitamin (or switch to a more affordable brand). This is especially important if you're breastfeeding, but good either way as your body recoversMegaFood PostnatalDay 1X
66
Feeding/NursingVitamin D supplementsInfant DropsVitamin D is the only nutrient baby doesn't get in sufficient quantities breastmilk (and we try to limit sun exposure early on to protect skin). You can get baby the extra D through infant drops (put them on your nipple or in bottle of breastmilk) or through boosting maternal levels of D through vitamin supplements Maternal VitaminsDay 1
67
Feeding/NursingBottlesChicco Duo but with Lansinoh nippesBabies have different preferences, so you can experiment with 5 popular options from this sampler box in "Alternative 1" and then get more of whichever baby prefers.

But my personal rec (having used many brands) is the Chicco Duo, especially if you're trying to avoid plastics. It has very thin glass on the inside, so milk only touches glass, but then plastic on the outside so it's unbreakable. However, the Chicco nipples are horrible, so I'd use Lansinoh, which are compatible and are most similar to the shape of a real nipple.
Babylist Sampler - plastic/siliconeBabylist Sampler - glassDay 1
68
Feeding/NursingExtra Bottle Nippleswhichever bottle brand you chooseYou'll want to start off with the newborn size (0) slowest flow but maybe buy some of the next size up too to have on hand in case in a few months baby is showing signs of being ready for faster flow (frustrated, taking long time to feed, etc.).Essential
69
Feeding/NursingBottle WarmerAventMany babies will only take bottles if they are similar temp to milk from the breast. But if you can get your baby more comfortable with cold or room temp milk, it will make your life (esp travel) a lot easier.Optional
70
Feeding/NursingBattery Powered WarmerBaby's BrewThis is useful if you do a lot of traveling and have a baby who requires warm milk - allows you to warm it up while on the road, at the beach, etc. when you don't have access to an outlet. Wait and see if your baby requires this before buying.Optional
71
Feeding/NursingBottle/Pump WipesMedelaUseful for on-the-go when you don't have access to water/soapOptional
72
Feeding/NursingBottle Drying RackBoonWhile you could just ultilize your existing drying rack, it can be nice to keep baby's things separate (and the "flower" and "tree" allow you to hang the smaller parts to dry)Optional
73
Feeding/NursingBottle BrushBoonHelps to clean the harder to access parts of the bottle or pumpDr Browns
less cutesy
Essential
74
Feeding/NursingBottle Sanitizing SolutionMedela Sanitizing Microwave BagsI personally think that if you're washing bottles/pump parts well, you don't need to sterlize them too often. If you have counterspace for a sterlizer machine, great, but these bags are a nice alternativeAvent Bottle SterizilerOptionalX
75
Feeding/NursingElectric PumpMedela Pump in StyleBreast pumps are covered by health insurance (and can also get free replacement parts). Medela and Spectra are the two most popular types. The advantage of Medela is it's more portable, but Spectra has more speed settings, a nightlight and a timer. Whichever you choose, get an extra set of flanges (the things that attach to your breasts) so you always have one available if another is dirtySpectra S2Day 1
76
Feeding/NursingHand PumpMedela HarmonyA hand pump can be useful when you just need to release a little pressure and it's super lightweight so easier to bring out with youOptional
77
Feeding/NursingHands-free PumpElvieCan be useful for once you're back at work, or for getting errands done while pumping. But be warned that they are less efficient so will take longer/produce less milk than your standard pumpWillowOptionalX
78
Feeding/NursingSilicone Breast PumpHaakaThis works differently than regular pumps in that it just suctions onto your breast. It can be useful as a way to catch the let down from the other side while baby is nursing.OptionalX
79
Feeding/NursingPump BagMommoreBag for storing not only your pump and accessories, but generally a cooler for milk bottles too.
Medela
(fits Medela cooler, sold separately)
Momigo backpackOptional
80
Feeding/NursingBreastmilk Storage BottlesMedelaThese bottles go directly in the Medela pump and then you can keep them in the fridge until needed.Essential
81
Feeding/NursingBottle CoolerBabeyerLots of options for transporting baby's drinking bottles (for car ride, park outing, etc). For pumped milk storage bottles, Medela makes a specific cooler bag (FSA-eligable), but many pump bags also contain space for storage bottles.SkipHopNanobebe
(compact, cheaper)
Essential
82
Feeding/NursingBreastmilk Freezer BagsMedelaIt's always a good idea to build up a small storage stash, in case you travel, get sick, or experience a dip in supply for any reasonDay 1X
83
Feeding/NursingFormulaKendamilEven if you're planning to breastfeed, it's wise to at least have some formula on hand. More info on picking a brand hereBobbieEnfamilDay 1
84
HygieneDiaper ChangerKeekaroo Peanut Diaper ChangerThe Keekaroo or Skip Hop is easy to clean and can go on top of any surface, so you can use a normal dresser-top. The only downside is the can be a bit colder and less comfy than a traditional changing pad with a cover. You can always lay a swaddle or burp cloth down.

If you go the traditional route of the pad with covers, make sure to get 2-3 covers, so you always have one available with the other is being washed.
Skip Hop
(more affordable)
West Elm Changing Table/Dresser (and search for Vinyl Changing Pad and Changing Pad Covers)Day 1
85
HygieneChanging Pad CoversAden and AnaisBuy 2-3 so you have backup when one is in the wash. Not necessary if you have the Peanut Keekaroo or Skip HopBurts BeesDay 1
86
HygieneDiapersCoterieStart off with Newborn (N) size. Coterie and Dyper both offer monthly subscriptions which is nice for not having to remember to order. Coterie are by far the softest and best for babies with sensitive bums. Dyper is more ecofriendly and has a pickup option for them to compost. Basic Pampers are also great - you could start with those and see if your baby is rash-prone, in whcich case you could upgrade to Coterie. Avoid Honest diapers because they do not have pee indicators.

Cost comparison:
Pampers = $65/month for 198 diapers
Coterie = $90/month for 198 diapers using subscription
Dyper = $89/month for 216 diapers using subscription (so $82 scaled to 198 diapers)
DyperPampers PureDay 1
87
HygieneWipesCoterieCoterie & 7th Gen wipes are thick and not too watery (I find that Water Wipes and Pampers get baby's butt too wet and prone to rashes).Seventh GenerationDay 1
88
HygieneDiaper CreamDesitinWhen you have a real rash, Desitin works best, but the other two can be useful to apply preventativelyButt PasteBurts BeesDay 1X
89
HygieneDiaper WarmerHiccapopDefinitely not necessary, but is a nice luxe experience for newborns who otherwise balk at cold wipesOptional
90
HygieneDiaper PailUbbiDoes good job containing the smell Day 1
91
HygieneDiaper Pail bagsUbbiBags optimized for the pailDay 1
92
HygieneHandheld FanTriPole Mini Handheld FanThis battery powered fan can help dry their butts more quickly and effectively, to prevent diaper rashOptional
93
HygieneDisposable Pee PadDisposable Changing PadUseful to lay out if you want to give baby some diaper free time, or for massages. You could also pack these in the stroller if you need to do a diaper change out.Optional
94
HygieneBaby BathtubThe First YearsThis tub can last all the way through toddler years, as it has a baby side that's more reclined and a toddler side that's more upright.Skip HopDay 1
95
HygieneBaby Soap/ShampooBabyganicsAny kind that's "tear free" will do!AvenoAquaphorDay 1
96
HygieneWashclothsMuslin Washclothes (pack of 10)These are soft and small. Another nice option is a natural sea sponge which is very gentleKyte Sea SpongeDay 1
97
HygieneHooded Towel (at least 2)LoulouLollipopI found the Loulou most comfy but they are all great - choose whichever is cutest to you!Pottery BarnBurts BeesDay 1
98
HygieneBaby LotionAvenoIf you're bathing baby a lot, nice to moisterize after, but not necessaryOptional
99
HygieneCaddySoft Rope Caddy
(for diaper items)
Nice for keeping things organized. Alternatively, you can get a rolling cart to keep lots of nursing/diaper/hygiene stuff on that can move from room to roomPlastic Caddy
(for medical things)
Over-door rack
(can be useful for storing supplies if you don't have much bathroom/closet space)
Day 1
100
HygieneThermometerBraun Digital Ear ThermometerWhile rectal thermometers are most accurate and good to have on hand, realistically it's a lot easier to get ear or forehead (you may just want to get a couple readings, and followup with rectal if necessary)Forehead ThermometerFridababy RectalDay 1X