I have curated best list for first time moms essentials.
If you are worried about the things a first time mom needs to buy, it’s time you stop worrying.
In this article I cover, What does a first time mom needs to buy.
Becoming a first time mom can be overwhelming. First time mom emotions, first time mom fears, and first time mom excitement are in fact all real.
I always thought that there was no need to fear but when I got pregnant with my son, Veer, I had my share of first time mom doubts, first time mom fears, first time mom emotions and understood what a first time mom to be really meant.
My head was filled with first time mom questions. I had so many questions?
- What is the best first time mom baby must haves
- What is the best first time mom baby checklist
- What are the best first time mom things to buy
- What are the best books for first time moms
I know how much stress these questions can cause. I have been through what you are going through now. But the good thing is that I have noted down everything I learnt and actually ended up using. I am going to make your life so easy now. I am going to tell you what are all the things that you need as a first time mom and things that you really need to buy.
1. Books For The Mother
I would recommend that you get some of the best pregnancy books. Books really help when in doubt and prepares you about what’s going to be coming up in the next month. This way you remain well informed and won’t panic when your body goes through multiple phases of change.
The best pregnancy books are-
Parent Effectiveness Training: The Proven Program for Raising Responsible Children
What to Expect When You’re Expecting Hardcover
2. Oil/ Hydrating Moisturiser
It’s very important to use a pregnancy oil for stretch marks. The pregnancy bio oil keeps the skin supple and moisturised and reduces the chances of getting stretch marks. However, sometimes even after application you might some stretch marks. I have listed the one I used and was happy with the result. Oil for thr pregnancy belly is a must.
Bio-Oil 200 ml (Specialist Skin Care Oil – Scars, Stretch Mark, Ageing, Uneven Skin Tone)
3. Pregnancy Pillow
Pregnancy pillows usage can really help during the third trimester. It provides support and comfort to the changed body. Sleeping becomes more relaxing. Pregnancy pillow back support prevents getting back aches. There are many pillows available in the market. I am sharing with you the one I loved the most
Mom’s Moon Ultra Soft C Shaped Pillow/Body Pillow/Maternity Pillow
4. Comfortable Pregnancy Shoes
During pregnancy the whole body swells due to water retention. The feet swell and lot. In fact you might notice that your old shoes won’t fit you anymore. Hence, it is important that you have a pair of pregnancy shoes for swollen feet. The best pregnancy shoes according to me are by Crocs. Super comfortable and airy. You can also slip it on in winters with socks. Order one size bigger than your usual size
Crocs Women’s Malindi Ballet Flats
5. Yoga Mat
Pregnancy yoga mat is a must have. Yoga helps releases stress and reduces irritation. It is very important that you meditate and do some yoga. The best yoga mat for pregnancy according to me is VIFITKIT Yoga Mat
6. Juicer
It is very important to have a juicer for vegetables and fruits. Carrot, cucumber, beetroot juice, etc are very important during pregnancy. This provides your baby with all the good nutrients that he/she deserves. Fruit juicer machine can make life super easy. The best juicer machine according to me is Philips Viva Collection HR1832/00 1.5-Litre 500-Watt Juicer (Ink Black).
7. Maternity Clothes
I would recommend not spending too much on maternity clothes. It’s best to buy maternity clothes online. I got maternity leggings in three colours and it was a blessing. I got a white, black and grey. These are definitely a must have and the best part is that you can use these for the whole pregnancy.
Mommy Fash’n Women’s Maternity Leggings
You can also add a few over sized tops and maxi dresses to your wardrobe to feel more confident and comfortable in your changing body.
8. Folder for Documents
When you are pregnant you need to keep making trips to the doctor and need to organise all of this papers properly in a file. I used AmazonBasics Expanding File Folder, Letter Size and organised the documents month wise in this. It made it very easy for me to handover the required documents to the doctor. Very important to keep the doctor happy
9. Hair Oil
Hair oil massage is very important once a week. It relaxes you and also nourishes your hair. I recommend Mamaearth Anti Hair Fall Spa Range with Onion Hair Oil + Onion Shampoo + Onion Conditioner for Hair Fall Control because it helps control hair hall and encourages natural hair growth. However, you can use any hair oil that you like.
I have already shared with you things that you will need when pregnant. However, now you are a first time mom and it is important that you are prepared. The list is going to be long but trust me you will need all of this at some point. It is best to have all of this planned in advance. This will save you from a lot of stress and anxiety. I have tried to make the list as exhaustive as I can. I also be updating it incase I miss out on something. Let’s get started.
10. Breastfeeding Padded Bras
Maternity nursing bras are a must have. Maternity bras with padding is advisable because sometimes the milk leaks and the pads prevent the clothes from getting wet. I used Two Dots Padded Breastfeeding Maternity Nursing Bras for Women. It’s best to have in two three colours. I got black, beige and grey.
11. Feeding Nighty
A feeding nighty is a must have. This will make life very easy specially when you just start to feed your baby. There are specially designed nighty for feeding that come with front open zip and makes it super convenient to feed the baby instantly. I used AV2 Women Printed Feeding/Nursing/Maternity Nighty and was very happy with the quality.
12. Diaper Bag
A diaper bag for the baby is essential. I prefer a diaper backpack bag. A good diaper bag should be compact as you need to take it with you everywhere. It should have many pockets so that you can organise everything properly in the bag. I tried a few diaper bags but the one I really loved is The Mom Store Multi-Functional Pink Double Pocket Diaper Bag Backpack- Waterproof with Changing Pad, Stroller Straps & Tin foil Bottle Pockets. It is super compact and looks very nice.
13. Breast Pump
First time mom breastfeeding essentials. Some of us are able to directly feed our baby where as some need to express and feed. However, I feel that a first time mom must have a breast pump. Sometimes it’s a good idea to express and feed. This will give you some time to rest and sleep. Also, some mothers produce more milk than the baby can drink. In that case it is important that you express the milk and save it for the baby. Mother’s milk is too precious to be wasted. This is something you must add to the hospital bag checklist. I would highly recommend Medela Swing Breast Pump. There are many other cheaper options but they are not good for your breasts and also they keep getting spoilt. It is better to invest in one good product rather than trying many bad pumps. In the end it all adds up to the same. I have experienced this.
14. Feeding Bottles
It is always difficult to select the best bottle for your baby. As a first time mom I tried almost all the bottles. I was very happy with Dr. Brown’s Narrow Neck Options Blue Bottle 8 Oz / 250 ml and Pigeon Glass Feeding 200ml Bottle with Add Nipple, Medium, Pale Blue. This will also depend a lot on your baby. Hence, order one of each first and then see what works the best for you. Also, the size of the nipple varies with age of your baby. Hence, make sure that you order the correct nipple size.
15. Liquid Cleanser
To clean all baby utensils such as bowls, spoons, bottles and plates you will need to use a safe liquid cleanser free of harmful chemicals. The best liquid cleanser is Pigeon Liquid Cleanser
16. Mild laundry Detergent
For washing baby clothes and bedding you need to use a mild baby safe detergent. This keeps the cloth soft and protects the baby from harmful chemicals. The best detergent is Pigeon Multifunctional Laundry Detergent.
17. Bottle Cleaning Brush
Very important to have a nice brush to clean the baby feeding bottles. I used this KIDZVILLA Bottle Cleaning Brush / 2 in 1 Bottle and Teat Brush. It is super nice. I would recommend that you have two of these at any given point in time.
18. Bath Towels
The hooded bath towels is a must have and should be a part of your hospital bag. The BRANDONN Flannel 3-in-1 Supersoft Baby Bath Towel/ Blanket / BathGown are not just super cute but also of great quality. It’s always good to have 2-3 towels in the wardrobe.
19. Baby Clothes
Baby clothes are a must have. Include onesies, shorts, soft tops, dresses, socks, leggings, hats, caps, napkins, nappies and mittens. You can select these based on your preference. However, I would recommend you get BabyButtons Cotton Washcloths Napkin. You can have at least 20 of these. You will be using them quite often.
20. Diapers
The best diaper for your new born baby is Pampers Active Baby Diapers. Some parents prefer reusable diapers because they work out to be cheaper. In that case you can try Superbottoms Plus Uno Reusable Cloth Diaper with 2 Certified Safe Organic Cotton Inserts . However, I feel that it’s always best to go for the disposable option. On amazon you also have an option to subscribe to diapers and every month you will get your pack at a slightly discounted rate.
21. Burp Cloth
Babies have to be burped every time they have milk until they are 6 months old. You have to place them on the shoulder and make them burp. When they burp they sometimes throw up some milk on the shoulder. Hence, a burp cloth is very important. It prevents your clothes from getting dirty and smelly. I used Billy Bum Unisex-Baby Muslin Cotton Burp Cloths, Baby Burpies for my baby.
22. Bibs
Bibs are so important. You will need these at least till your baby is 3 years old. Start with using soft cotton bibs. I used BRANDONN Newborns Premium Baby Cotton Bibs. After your baby turns 6 months old you can switch to A Baby Cherry Bib 21st Century Waterproof Silicone Bib for feeding infants and toddlers. The best part about the silicon bibs is that they can easily be washed instantly and used again for the next meal.
23. Feeding Spoon and Bowl
It is important that you have a feeding bowl and spoon. I used 1stbabystore Baby Traveltime Feeding Food Storage and the best part about this bowl and spoon set is that it comes with a lid and I can carry it with me if I step out.
24. Wipes
Baby wipes is a must have. You always need to have a pack of wipes in your diaper bag. I tried many wipes. The one I liked the most is Himalaya Gentle Baby Wipes. Some people don’t prefer using wipes and that’s completely fine. However, I feel these are super important especially when you step out.
25. Diaper Rash Cream
Diaper rash cream is very important. You need to apply it every time you change your baby’s diaper. I think Sebamed Baby Rash Cream is the best diaper rash cream. However, some people don’t prefer using one. In that case you can apply little coconut oil. However, according to me it’s better to have one in the diaper bag.
26. Baby Bath Wash and Shampoo
Using a chemical free and mild baby wash and shampoo is very important. I used Mamaearth Deeply Nourishing wash for Babies and Mamaearth Gentle Cleansing Shampoo for Babies. I am very happy. I still continue to use the same for my son. Even Forest Essentials Dasapushpadi Baby Hair and Body Wash is very nice. However, it is a little expensive compared to Mamaearth.
27. Baby Cream and Oil
Massaging and oiling your baby is very essential. It relaxes their muscles and body. I use
Mamaearth Nourishing Baby Hair Oil with Almond & Avocado for my son’s hair and Mamaearth Soothing Massage Oil 100% natural oils for babies and kids for his body. Coconut oil is also a great option. But I like Mama earth because it doesn’t leave a sticky feeling.
28. Bathing Chair
A bathing chair is a very useful thing to have till your baby turns one. Make sure that you get an anti-skid bathing chair. I used Mee Mee Baby Bather and was very happy with it.
29. Feeding Cover Up
Nursing cover ponchos are very useful and you must always have one of these in the diaper bag. I used Mommy Fash’n Stylish 360° Nursing Cover Poncho. It becomes super easy to feed the baby on the go if you have one of these. Keep two of these in your wardrobe.
30. Rocker
A rocker is a very convenient and useful thing to have when you are feeding your baby between 0-6 months. You can easily put them in the rocker and feed them. Also, babies get a very good sleep in the rocker. I used to put my son to sleep in this rocker till he turned 9 months old. I love Fisher-Price Newborn to Toddler Rocker. It made my initial months as a mother super easy. It’s also portable, so sometimes if you are alone with the baby, you can just put them in the rocker while you get other work done.
31. Mosquito Patch
It’s good to have to mosquito patches. This prevents our baby specially during outdoor play. The best mosquito patch is RunBugz Mosquito Repellent Patches for Babies, Cute Animal Patch. However, there are many in the market. Feel free to explore.
32. Stroller & Pram
Stroller is a must have. You need this to take your baby for a walk and even during travel. Mothercare Nanu Stroller is the best stroller. However, if you want something in a better price then LuvLap Sunshine Stroller/Pram, Easy Fold, for Newborn Baby/Kids is the best option to go for. I did get a pram but never really used it. I think a stroller is enough. However, if you still want to get a pram you can go ahead with Chicco Cortina CX Stroller (Lava), Strollers for Newborn Babies and Toddlers . You can use this till your baby turns four to five years old.
33. Baby Cot
Even though a baby cot is necessary, I won’t recommend going for a very expensive one. It is best to get something in the mid range. The really cheap ones aren’t usable at all. I think Mee Mee Baby Wooden Cot is the best cot to have. It has a basinet, store space for toys, option to put a cot mobile, mosquito net and the best thing is that it can be easily moved around the house because of the wheels. When my son was little, I used to sometimes shift the cot to the living area while I got other work done.
34. Rattles
Rattles and toys are so important for our kids growth. Kids love sound, colours and objects that they can hold. This improves their, fine and gross motor skills. Hence, it is important that you buy some rattles for your little one. My son loved Cable World® Colourful Plastic Non Toxic Set of 8 Attractive Rattle for New Borns and Infants. However, there are many options that you can explore from.
35. Play Gym
Play gym is so good for your kid’s over all development. Improves their fine and gross motor skills. I love Fisher Price Deluxe Kick and Play Piano Gym. It has music, colour and almost anything that a kid deserves to play with.
36. Car Seat
Car seats are important because this enable both the mother and the child to sit comfortably. This is especially important if you do a lot of long-distance road trips. The car seat also instils a sense of discipline in the child and makes it easier to feed them. You can go ahead with R for Rabbit Convertible Baby Car Seat Jack N Jill Grand Innovative ECE R44/04 Safety Certified Car Seat for Kids of 0 to 7 Years Age with 3 Recline Position because it can be used till your child turns 7 and also has three reclining positions plus a very good safety harness.
37. High Chair
High chair is a must have if you want to instils good eating habits in your child. I used SYGA High Chair for Baby Kids,Safety Toddler Feeding Booster Seat Dining Table Chair with Wheel and Cushion and it’s super user friendly. It is a 3 in1 design and super easy to clean as the seat is stain resistant. I also think it is very well priced for the purpose that it solves.
38. Baby Carrier
Baby carrier is a great investment if you plan to travel with your baby. Travel becomes a lot easier with a carrier. I used Chinmay Kids 4-in-1 Adjustable Baby Carrier and was super happy with it. The quality is amazing and the baby feels very comfortable in it. The straps are padded and don’t hurt the shoulder at all.
39. Formula Milk
There are so many formula milk options available in the market these days. Sometimes it gets very difficult to decide the best baby formula. However, I used Enfamil A+ Stage 1: Infant Formula (0 to 6 months) when my baby was 0-6 months old and then used Enfamil A+ Stage 2 Follow Up Formula – 400 g (6 Months Onward) between 6 months-1 year of age. Other option that is slightly cheaper is Nestle NAN PRO 2 Follow-Up Formula-Powder (After 6 months). This is also equally good. You can read the details and pick the one that suits you. After your baby turns 1 you can switch to regular cow milk. Consult with your doctor when you plan to switch to normal milk.
40. Baby Walker
Baby walker is a controversial thing. Some mothers feel that we should give walkers to our children. However, there is a school of thought that believes that walkers help improve muscle strength in legs. I belong to the second school of thought. I introduced my son to Jumix Toddlers Push Walker Stroller Multifunctional Music Cartoon Musical Developmental Educational Toy Gifts for Baby Toddlers Boys Girls Kids when he was just 9 months old and he started to walk before his first birthday. This is a very interactive walker and kids just love it.
41. Baby Bedding
Preparing the bed for the baby is a lot of fun. I used MOM’S HOME Baby Organic Cotton Bedding 1 Mattress, 2 Bolster, 1 Pillow, 1 Soft Musical Toy Set (Blue, 0-12 Months). I love the over all feel and quality. Good earth also has a good set but that’s a little expensive. However, the prints and the overall feel is very good.
42. Baby Shoes
Getting comfortable baby shoes is very important, specially when they are just starting to walk. I introduced my son to BATA Boy’s Softy Walking Shoes for outdoor play time in the mud and he just loved it. He refused to wear anything else. These shoes are super good and comfortable.
I started using Crocs Kids Unisex Coast Clogs and Mules after my son started to walk. These are a little heavy for them when they are very tiny.
43. Interactive Floor Mat
The best way to engage your child is to leave them on a mat with a lot of toys. I love Keekos Waterproof Double Side Baby Crawl Floor Mat with Zip Bag to Carry for Kids Picnic Play School Home with Zip Bag to Carry and Keekos Double Sided Water Proof Baby Mat Carpet for Kids Waterproof Double Side Baby Play Crawl Floor Mat for Kids Picnic School. They are super easy to move around and can also carry one to a picnic. Easily folds into a compact size once the baby is one playing.
44. Swaddle Blankets
It is very important to swaddle a new born baby. You must have swaddle blankets that are soft and comfortable. I used ELEMENTARY – basics redefined (Pack of 3) Super-Soft Organic Cotton Muslin Swaddle Blanket/Swaddle wrap for New Born for my son. The prints are nice and the fabric is also good.
45. Baby Monitor
Monitoring your baby if you are not around is very important. Sometimes you might have guests over and the baby is asleep. Under these situations the baby monitor really helps. You can enjoy with the guests while the baby sleeps peacefully. (Renewed) YI 1080p Home Camera, Indoor 2.4G IP Security Surveillance System with Night Vision for Home/Office/Baby/Nanny is a great baby monitor that allows upto 5 family members keep an eye on the baby.
46. Breast Milk Bags
Some of us lactate a lot and the baby is not able to have all the breast milk that you are producing. Breast milk is too precious, and you can’t just throw it. But there is good news. You can now save your excess milk in breast milk bags. These also come handy when you are travelling or stepping out for a few hours. I used NOYMI BPA-Free Convenient Breastmilk Freezer Storage Bags. It’s a really good thing to keep handy if you are lactating a lot.
47. Insulated Bottle Carriers
You can buy insulated carriers for one bottle or for half a dozen bottles. Use one to keep bottles and/or breast milk warm or cool when you’re on the go. I used PackIt Freezable Baby Bottle Bag with Zip Closure, Double Bottle. It’s very effective for 12 hours. However, this is not something that you have to buy. You can buy if you plan to travel.
48. Bottle Sterilizer
Bottle steriliser is an investment you must make if you are bottle feeding your baby This will help sterilise the bottle and prevent your baby from infection. I used Philips Avent 3-in-1 Electric Steam Sterilizer. This is very user friendly and easy to use.
49. Warm or Cold Gel Packs
Gel packs are useful and relaxing the breasts that sometimes get sour due to feeding the baby. Any regular gel packs work. I used Signamio Maxtree Hot and Cold Pack for Hot and Cold Therapy. Must always keep 2-3 of these at home.
50. Bottle Warmers
Bottle warmers are much better than microwave because they don’t have harmful radiations and are super quick and easy to use. I used Philips Avent Electric Bottle Warmer and it was very useful. This is not something that you have to buy but it just makes life a little easier.
51. Picture Board Books
The earlier you introduce your child to books the more likely they are to enjoy them later. Picture board books are the best to start with. I highly recommend Bright Baby Touch and Feel: Words/Colors/Numbers/Shapes: Includes Words, Colors, Numbers, and Shapes Board book. You can keep adding more books.
52. Toys
Other than rattles, tethers and the play gym that I have already mentioned an activity table is a must have. LeapFrog Learn and Groove Musical Table is the one I used for my son and I saw him learn and grow on his own.
53. Toy Box or Basket
It is very important to have small storage boxes in which you can keep the toys after the baby is done playing. It’s also very convenient to carry the toys around in this box. I use FunBlast Unicorn Multi-Functional Folding Storage Ottoman Box Organizer Cum Stool with Seat Cushion, Storage Boxes for Toys for Kids and I quite love the quality.
54. Cupboard and Drawer Latches
I didn’t use this at al. However, if you are always worrying about your baby hurting his/her finger then you can get KitschKitsch® 8pcs Baby Infant Safety Locks Latches Door Cupboard Cabinet Fridge Drawer Locks and stay stress free.
Books are definitely the best investment to make.
55. Potty Chair and Potty Seat
Every mother has to go through this phase of potty training. Two things that you will need are potty chair and potty seat. It is best to start with a potty chair and then move to a potty seat. I used La Corsa KE-3 Portable Adult Baby Potty Toilet Seat potty seat. The quality is good and I like the fact that this one comes with a back support. Fisher Price Royal Step Stool Potty is definitely one of the best potty chairs. Super comfortable for the baby and easy to move around the house.
56. First Aid Kit
It is important to have a small first kit ready so that you don’t panic incase of small injuries. It is good to organise everything in a neat box. Make band- aids, cream, tapes and necessary ointments in the box. I use SHAFIRE Portable Storage Box Medicine Box First Aid Kit Drugs Baby Medicine Chest and it’s very sturdy.
57. Nail Kit
Baby nails grow very fast and it’s important that you keep cutting them because most babies have a tendency to put their hands in the mouth. I use Mothercare Deluxe Grooming Set and I am super happy with the quality. Been using it for 3.5 years now and it still looks new.
58. Teething Toys
Teething toys are important not only to relieve baby’s pain but also to aid their cognitive development. WISHKEY Colorful Non Toxic BPA Free 10 Rattles and 3 Teethers Toys Set for Babies ,Infants and KIDZVILLA Baby Teething Toys 2 Pack are both great options that you can select from.
59. Soft-Bristled Baby Hair Brush
It’s very important to get a soft bristled hair brush for the baby as their scalp is very soft. I got OCCObaby Baby’s Wooden Hair Brush and Comb Set with Natural Soft Bristles for Cradle Cap as a gift and just loved using it. However, you can get LuvLap Elegant Baby Hair Brush and Comb Set, 0m+ (White) which is cheap and nice.
60. Air Purifier
Having an air purifier is a great idea. Small babies are prone to infection and it is important that we give them a clean environment. I use Philips AC1215/20 Air purifier, removes 99.97% airborne pollutants with 4-stage filtration. However, if you are okay with spending a little more then, Dyson Pure Hot+Cool Air Purifier (Advanced Technology) with heater and bladeless fan, HP04 (White/Silver) is the best option to go for.
61. Alexa
This is completely optional. However, it is a great gift for your child. Super easy to play rhymes, songs and stories for your child. I use Echo Dot (3rd Gen) – New and improved smart speaker with Alexa (Black) and it is a great product to own.
62. Sipper
It’s important to pack a small sipper bottle in the diaper bag. It’s great to start with Philips Avent Classic Soft Spout Cup. Most kids love this sipper and the quality is amazing. If you are kid is more than one year old then you can use Borosil Hydra Happy Sipper – Vacuum Insulated Flask Water Bottle instead.
63. Lunch Set
It’s important to have a compact lunch set that you can easily put in your diaper bag. I use Signoraware Executive Stainless Steel Lunch Box Set, Set of 4 because it allows me to add four different varieties and also is made of superior quality stainless steel.
64. Baby Milestone Journal
If you are the kind of mother who likes to record her baby’s milestone then C.R. Gibson First 5 Years Memory Book, Record Memories and Milestones on 64 Beautifully Illustrated Pages – Sweet Sparkle is a beautiful thing to own. Myprinfy Baby’s First Year Memories for Life: A Keepsake Journal of Milestone Moments (Baby Record Book) is a more affordable option but it is something that you can go ahead with.
Conclusion
These are all the things you need to buy as a first time mom. If I missed out on anything I will make sure that I update it. Don’t worry. It just looks a lot on paper. When you go through it you won’t feel this. However, it is important to plan things ahead of time. This will save you from last minute stress and panic. Anyway as a mother there will be a lot to deal with. There is no need to worry about the first time mom essential list now. I have done all the work for you.
All you need to do is just make your cart and check out. You can be a happy stress free first time mom with a new born now. I would recommend that you divide the cart into two parts. Things that you need to invest in one time such as the sterilizer, bottle warmers, etc and things that you need to buy regularly such as diapers, bathing toiletries, etc. If you do this then you can just keep repeating the recurring orders again instead of building a new cart every month. This will save you a lot of time. That’s what I still do.
I know the last minute confusions that I faced and I don’t want you to go through the same. Now there is no need to call a friend and ask what’s the best thing to buy and from where to buy. In fact if you have this article you can recommend things to others even before becoming a first time mom.