Diapers
Did you know the average newborn goes through 10-12 diaper changes per day?! Yup, that's a ton of diapers, so don't forget to stock up. Friends may want to get you all the cute baby clothes in the world, but at the end of the day, diapers and food are all Baby really needs.
Available at Sam's Club: Pamper's Swaddlers, Huggies Little Movers, Member's Mark Comfort Care
Baby Carrier
You never realize how amazing it is to have your hands free until you have a baby. And a baby carrier is definitely one of those can't-live-without items for most moms. Wearing Baby—especially if your baby likes to be held all day—allows you to accomplish previously small tasks like making dinner, vacuuming a small mess, or even just going to the bathroom. And sometimes you just don't want to unload your stroller for a small errand, and thanks to the baby carrier, you don't have to.
Available at Sam's Club: : Evenflo Breathable Soft Carrier
Wipes
Baby wipes are the single most multifunctional item moms will ever have. Not only do they help clean Baby's bottom, they can also be used to wipe down countertops, take off your makeup (yes, really!) and even be used to take deodorant stains off dark shirts!
Available at Sam's Club: Huggies Natural Care Baby Wipes, Member's Mark Premium Baby Wipes
Bottles
Whether you're breastfeeding or formula-feeding, at some point, Baby will probably need to take a meal from someone other than Mom, so having bottles on hand is essential. And if you're going to be a pumping mom, you'll definitely want to make sure to have more than a few on hand so you're not constantly washing bottles and all the small parts that come with them.
Available at Sam's Club: Phillip's Avent Classic Bottle Set
Stroller
For many new moms, the stroller is a lifesaver. When Baby (or Mom) starts feeling cranky, getting outside into the fresh air can make a world of difference. So strap Baby into the stroller and go for a walk! It's also essential for getting around other important places—especially before Baby's old enough to sit up on their own—like the market and, you know, the mall. Because Mama's gotta have some fun, too!
Available at Sam's Club: Combi Catalyst Stroller
Crib
Whether you end up using it right away or many months down the line, it's always nice to have a safe comfy place to put Baby down to sleep. And a crib like this one—that transforms into a toddler bed and a day bed later on down the line—is a total steal!
Available at Sam's Club: Babymod Modena 3-in1 Convertible Crib
Bouncer, Rocker or Swing
Been there, done that moms know—having any place you can safely put a baby down is worth the investment. Moms swear by this Rock 'N Play, but any bouncer, swing or rocker would do. The Rock 'N Play is especially famous for its ability to help soothe infants with reflux issues, who may need to sleep at an angle to stay comfortable.
Available at Sam's Club: Fisher-Price Newborn Rock 'N Play Sleeper
Infant Car Seat
Yes, technically you could just start out with a convertible car seat that accommodates infant sizes, but what do you do when your baby falls asleep in the car the second you park at your destination? Infant car seats are awesome because you can simply take them out of the car with Baby still in it, and pop it into a stroller or take it into your home. And anything that doesn't wake a sleeping baby is gold in our book!
Available at Sam's Club: Safety First Onboard+ Infant Car Seat
Diaper Bag
Who knew babies needed SO. MUCH. STUFF? Keep things stylish and functional with a diaper bag that has all the compartments, changing pads and bottle pockets you need to make finding things a breeze unlike the bottomless pit that can be your purse. This one's especially awesome because it converts into a backpack (hello, hands-free!), comes with stroller attachments and is a chic, gender-neutral style that any parent can carry.
Available at Sam's Club: Amy Michelle Lexington Diaper Bag, $65
Play Mat
You may think you'll be playing with Baby all day long from the start, but you'd be wrong. For the first few months all Baby does is lay there and do the recommended tummy time. So having a soft place to lay them on their stomachs is a must-have. The attached toys and activities on play mats will also entertain them as they grow older and stronger. Trust us, this is something you'll be using all day, everyday for months and months.
Available at Sam's Club: Fisher-Price My Little Snugabunny Ultra Comfort Musical Gym
Formula
Even if you don't plan on being a formula-feeding mom, it's always nice to have some on hand for cases where you may have to be away unexpectedly, or simply couldn't pump enough one day. And nowadays, there are a variety of formulas out there ensuring that there's one to perfectly suit your child's individual needs.
Available at Sam's Club: Similac Advance, Similac Sensitive
Bibs
From the spit-up filled newborn days, to the drooling teething phase, to just keeping Baby's clothes clean throughout the day, bibs and burp cloths are indispensable the first year. Always make sure to have some extras in hand in case Baby is being … well, a baby.
Available at Sam's Club: Trend Lab 7-Piece Feeding Gift Set
