Guides / Gear, diapers and feeding
Baby gear: what you need, and what can wait
A short day-one list, and a longer list of things to skip.
Baby stores make it look like you need a whole room of gear before day one. You need far less. Buy the essentials, then wait and see what your baby and your home actually need.
Day one
- A rear-facing car seat (needed to drive home from the hospital)
- A safe place to sleep: a crib, bassinet or play yard that meets current safety standards, with a firm, flat mattress and a fitted sheet
- Diapers, wipes and a few changes of clothes
- Feeding basics for your plan
Can wait
- High chair (around six months)
- Baby-proofing gear (before crawling)
- Bigger clothes and shoes
- Most toys
Often skipped
- Wipe warmers, bottle sterilizer machines and baby food makers
- Changing tables (a pad on a dresser works)
- Crib bumpers, pillows and positioners: safe-sleep guidance says to keep the sleep space bare
General educational information. Costs and rules vary by state, plan and family. Family Penny Saver isn't paid by any brand, store or insurer.