So you have a little one on the way. Congrats! While this is an exciting time, it can also be a little overwhelming. Just know that you’re not the only one who doesn’t know where to start, as you prepare for baby. Whether you’re a first-time Mom or a seasoned pro, assembling and organizing all of your baby must-haves can feel like a lot of work. Not to worry. We’re here to help with our ultimate list of baby registry must-haves. Here’s everything you need (and nothing you don’t) to get ready for your little one’s arrival.

Table of Contents

The Complete List of Baby Must-Haves for First-Time Moms

Nursery Essentials

The nursery is a place where you and your baby will share some special moments throughout their first few years of life. It should be peaceful, well-organized, and fully stocked with everything you need so you can make the most of your time together. Here’s what we suggest adding to your list of baby must-haves for the nursery:

• Bassinet/Crib. A crib or bassinet, a firm flat mattress, and a fitted sheet are all you need to create a safe and comfortable sleeping environment for your baby in their first few months at home. We suggest starting with a bassinet next to your bed, as the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends parents sleep in the same room as their babies until they’re at least six months old.
• Baby Monitor. A baby monitor is any new parent’s best friend. So, make sure to add this item somewhere near the top of your list of must-haves for your newborn baby.
• Swaddles. Many parents swaddle their newborn babies until they are about 3 months old. From there, swaddles can grow into blankies, lovies, sun shields, and blankets your little one will reach for again and again. We suggest stocking up on these. You will want at least three.
• Mobile. A mobile is not only a beautiful decorative piece, but it also helps soothe and entertain your little one, over the crib or change station Here are a few of our favourites.
• Crib Sheets. Brushed organic cotton sheets are gentle on baby’s delicate skin, absorbing moisture and keeping them comfortable overnight, perfect for all seasons.
• Storage. None of us are prepared for how quickly our littles grow up. One day they’re mastering tummy time and the next they’re a full-force toddler. Whether you’re swiftly gathering baby’s first tactile toys and teethers, or putting away piles of books and toys that only a toddler tornado can produce, storage that slips away easily is essential to keep the space tidy.
• Changing Station. Newborns need a lot of diaper changes and it can feel pretty constant in the early days. You’ll want a few changing pad covers, so you always have a clean one close by.
• Glider or Rocking Chair. Consider a comfortable nursing chair to make middle-of-the-night feedings easier.

Baby Clothing Essentials

Many new moms are surprised at just how many outfit changes newborns will go through in a day, let alone a week. Let’s just say, it’s safe to presume that the laundry basket is going to get filled pretty quickly. So, if you’re wondering what one of the most important baby must-haves for first-time moms is, clothing certainly lands somewhere near the top of the list. Here are the newborn clothing essentials we recommend adding to your list of baby registry must-haves. Of course they don’t need to be, but organic clothing is the safest way to dress baby. Free of any chemicals or harsh dyes, organic cotton is something that you can rest easy about.

• Sleepers are the perfect pyjamas for the first 0 - 12 months of your little one’s life. Make sure the ones you add to your baby registry must-haves include a full two-way zip for easy changes!
• Onesies are great for mixing, matching, and easy diaper changing. You’ll want a good selection of these on hand as well.
• Pants & shorts to pair with your onesies.
• Sweaters or jackets that you can layer over onesies on cold days.
• Cold weather accessories like socks, hats and mittens are pieces you’ll need, if you live in a cooler climate.

On-The-Go Essentials

Speaking of outings … getting out the door and on your way with a newborn can be tricky to say the least. That’s why we recommend adding some on-the-go essentials to your list of baby must-haves in 2023.

• Car Seat. A car seat is one of the most important must-haves for your newborn baby. You can choose an infant or a convertible car seat. There are pros and cons to both so do your research and decide what works best for you and your family. Most hospitals won’t let you leave without one!
• Stroller. As far as baby must-haves for first-time moms go, a stroller is absolutely key. It’ll help you get fresh air with your little one and keep your body moving.
• Carrier. A lot of new parents wonder whether a carrier should be added to their registry or not. We love how it allows you to bond with your newborn and keep your hands free for other important things (like coffee!). Some infants swear by contact naps, so it can also help you get out of the house instead of being nap-trapped all day long.
• Diaper Bag. Your diaper bag is your best friend, when you’re out and about with your newborn. It should be big enough to hold all the essentials, a change of clothes and a bottle with room to spare. To keep everything organized and clean, we recommend using travel pouches in your diaper bag.
• Portable Changing Pad. When your baby needs changing while you’re out and about, a portable changing pad can be a real life-saver. We recommend options with zip pockets for creams and diapers with a fully wipeable exterior coated for easy clean-ups.
• Nursing Pillow. This will help keep you and your little one comfortable during nursing and an extra cover is useful, as milk can be messy while your supply adjusts. You’ll also be using your nursing pillow constantly when your newborn discovers cluster feeding.

Feeding Essentials

Bath-Time Essentials

Other Essentials

We’re coming to the end of our list of baby registry must-haves but, we’re not quite done yet! Here is our final group of items that you’ll need whether you’re wrapping up bath time, heading out to run an errand, or putting your little one down to sleep. These are the things you want to have on hand in the nursery, bathroom, and diaper bag at all times.

• Diapers. This one is a no-brainer, you’ll need newborn-sized diapers and, we hate to break it to you, lots and lots of them. Decide whether you want to use cloth or disposable diapers and adjust your registry accordingly.
• Diaper cream. Most babies will need diaper cream at some point. We recommend having a tube for your nursery, and a tube for your diaper bag.
• Pacifiers. Pacifiers help calm and soothe your baby so this is a great item to add to any baby registry. This is another one of those items you’ll want to have handy at all times so, stock up so you always have one nearby.
• Diapers. This one is a no-brainer, you’ll need newborn-sized diapers and, we hate to break it to you, lots and lots of them. Decide whether you want to use cloth or disposable diapers and adjust your registry accordingly.
• Diaper cream. Most babies will need diaper cream at some point. We recommend having a tube for your nursery, and a tube for your diaper bag.
• Pacifiers. Pacifiers help calm and soothe your baby, so this is a great item to add to any baby registry. This is another one of those items you’ll want to have handy at all times, so stock up and always have one nearby.
• Teethers. As soon as those white pearlies start poking through the gums, you’ll need plenty of teethers close at hand. You’ll want to make sure they’re made from safe materials, like these wooden ones.