10 Basics You Need for Your Newborn

Maybe you’re a soon-to-be mom; maybe you’re shopping for a shower gift. Either way, it’s tempting to indulge in newborn clothing and gear that you find appealing. Tot-sized designer sneakers? Cute, yes, but socks will do just fine. Elaborate mobiles? No need—baby only has eyes for you. Here are 10 mom-tested essentials to have around when you bring your little one home. Trust us, you’ll use these items again and again … and again.

Cloth changing pad covers are fine for most diaper changes, but the last thing you’ll want to do is scrub them clean after baby has an epic up-the-back poop blowout. (Up the back, you say? Trust us, it happens.) Also called “chux,” these toss-away liners have a soft cotton top and plastic backing for those extra-messy cleanups.

How many you should buy: 25

To buy: Northshore Champion Blue Disposable Underpads, $8 for pack of 25

Nail clippers for newborns are a no-no—their fingers are too small and squirmy and you risk drawing blood. Get a pair of good-quality scissors instead, which will offer you much more control as you navigate those tiny translucent nails.

How many you should buy: 1

To buy: Tweezerman Baby Nail Scissors, $25

These aren’t just for baby’s bum: You’ll find yourself using these soft cloths for a variety of cleanups. Those little fat folds on your little one’s neck that trap milk and end up smelling like cheese? Wipe it down. Barf mess on the floor? No problem. They’ll save you from using a ton of paper towels, so they’re eco-friendly, too.

How many you should buy: 12

To buy: GroVia Reusable Cloth Wipes, $11 for pack of 12

Your baby’s not eating solid foods yet, so isn’t a burp cloth enough? Not quite. Keep lots of bibs handy for both dribbly-chin milk feedings and catching spit-up after mealtime is over. Mom pro tip: Ones that attach on the side are easier to put on than ones that attach in the back.

How many you should buy: 6 to 9

To buy: aden + anais Nibble Snap Bibs, $20 for pack of 3

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Even if you give your baby the finest mini-manicure around, chances are he’ll still scratch himself unintentionally while he sleeps. Secure his hands in soft crib mittens to ensure he doesn’t wake up with little nail marks on his face.

How many you should buy: 3 pairs

To buy: Gerber Unisex Newborn Mittens, $6 for 3 pairs

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Newborns are full of surprises, but don’t be surprised by the number of wardrobe changes they need. Side-snap shirts are a lifesaver when you’re dealing with a cranky little one who simply will not tolerate having a shirt yanked over his head for the fourth time this morning.

How many you should buy: 2 packs

To buy: Carter’s Side Snap Tees, $26 for pack of 5

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If you plan to breastfeed, you probably have some on hand—but consider keeping a spare bottle for the changing table. It’s stickier than most diaper rash creams but creates a very effective moisture barrier for the occasional extra-bad irritation.

How many you should buy: 1 bottle

To buy: Lansinoh Brand Lanolin Topical Treatment, $8

There are so many different swaddling contraptions on the market that claim to miraculously soothe your baby into a calm, restful sleep—and when parents are in sleep-deprived survival mode they’ll buy anything that offers some potential shut-eye. All you really need are a few soft blankets with a little bit of give. The ones used at the hospital are perfect but hard to track down, so ask if you can take a few home.

How many you should buy: 4 to 8

To buy: BH Medwear Kuddle-Up Baby Blankets, $18 for pack of 4

They’re simple and match every outfit. They’re also essential for keeping tiny toes warm whenever baby isn’t wearing his footie pj's. Ankle socks in particular have the advantage of being extra snug (and thus tough for little legs to kick off).

How many you should buy: 8 pairs

To buy: Old Navy Ankle Socks for Baby, $7 for pack of 4

Giant swings, newborn “lounge” pillows … don’t bother. All your baby needs is a soft, cuddly seat that will hold him up at a 45-degree angle, because let’s face it: laying on your back all the time gets pretty old. In addition to giving you some hands-free time, it’ll also aid baby’s digestion, reducing reflux and providing leverage to … ahem … go number 2.

How many you should buy: 1

To buy: Fisher-Price My Little Snugabunny Bouncer, $65