Aisles of the latest gadgets vie for your attention and money, but the true necessities on your baby shopping list are things that satisfy your baby's basic needs. If money is limited, start with a crib and any items you need to clothe, feed and transport your baby. Spring for the extras as money allows, or reserve the other items for the baby registry.
Crib
A crib provides a safe sleeping environment for your newborn. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, the crib should have slats that are no more than 2 3/8 inches apart, no cutouts and corner posts that are no more than 1/16 inch higher than the top of the crib. You also will need a firm mattress that fits snugly into the crib. A bedding set isn't necessary, as comforters and bumper pads aren't recommended due to the danger of suffocation.
Car Seat & Stroller
A safe car seat for your infant is a necessity. The hospital will not allow you to take your baby home without a properly installed safety seat. Avoid a used car seat, because you don't know if it has been in a car accident. Car seats have an expiration date stamped on the back to ensure they meet recent safety standards.
A stroller is another basic need. Many strollers accept infant car seats that snap onto them, which can prove useful during the newborn phase. Make sure the stroller you choose is compatible with your car seat.
Clothing
In the first few months of your baby's life, you'll need several basic clothing items. The more items you have, the less frequently you will have to do laundry. Some babies spit up a lot so you could end up changing her clothes several times a day. Basic clothing pieces include: onesies, knit pants, sleepers and socks. A few dress-up outfits are usually sufficient for any outings you take.
Feeding
How you feed your baby--breastfeeding or formula--determines the feeding gear you will need. Bottles and nipples are a must for formula-fed babies. If you plan to pump, you'll also need bottles for breastfeeding. A quality breast pump is useful even if you plan to nurse your child most of the time. The pump relieves excessive milk in your breasts. A nursing pillow, nursing bra and breast pads also make the process easier.
Bathing & Baby Care
An infant bathtub makes bathing your infant easier. A bulb syringe allows you to suction mucus from your baby's nose. Infant nail clippers, a digital thermometer and baby lotion also make caring for your infant easier.
Gear
Larger baby gear makes life easier with your newborn. Baby swings and bouncer seats often can soothe newborns with their motion and sounds. Activity centers that allow your baby to sit and play with toys come in handy as your infant gets older. A high chair makes meal time easier. A portable crib works well if you travel frequently.
