What I Am Actually Buying to Prepare for Baby

Okay, so I have been deep in the baby-prep rabbit hole for weeks now. Every time I think I have a handle on what we actually need, I find something else that sounds essential. But here is the thing: not everything that sounds essential actually is. So I wanted to write down exactly what I am buying, what I am skipping, and what has already made it into the nursery.

This is the honest list, not the Pinterest fantasy version. We are on a real budget and I am trying to be thoughtful about it, but I also refuse to be unprepared for bringing a whole human home.

The Big Purchases I Have Already Made

The crib was our first priority. We went with a convertible option so it grows with baby longer. I spent way too many evenings watching YouTube assembly videos. If you are in the same boat, do yourself a favor and get a Phillips head screwdriver that is not from a dollar store gift set.

We also picked our stroller early, because delivery times can be long and I did not want to be scrambling at 38 weeks. I have been eyeing the UPPAbaby Vista for its longevity and the fact that it handles sidewalks in Kansas City winters without becoming a nightmare. It is an investment but the resale value holds well if you take care of it.

Everyday Essentials Already in the Cart

For the basics, I have been leaning on Amazon pretty heavily. The baby essentials list on Amazon is actually a solid place to start if you feel overwhelmed. Things like swaddles, burp cloths, a good sound machine, and a baby nail file kit add up fast but individually they are not that expensive.

One thing I was not prepared for: how many of the same items you need in multiples. Two sets of crib sheets minimum. Multiple swaddles. Backup pacifiers. I kept thinking “we will just wash things” and then someone told me about a blowout at 2 AM and I bought three more onesie packs immediately.

Feeding Setup

I am planning to try breastfeeding, so I went ahead and ordered a nursing pillow and a couple of nursing bras early. I found a HATCH maternity nursing bra that I genuinely love already and I am wearing it now because it is comfortable. No shame in that.

I also have a breast pump on order through insurance. If yours covers one too, do not wait to figure that out. The paperwork takes longer than you expect.

Things I Am Skipping (At Least for Now)

The wipe warmer. I know people love them, but I genuinely do not have room on the changing table and I have heard mixed reviews on whether babies even care. Putting that one on the “ask me in six weeks” list.

I am also not buying a diaper Genie right away. We have a small laundry room right next to the nursery and I feel like I can manage without it initially. If I am wrong, they are not hard to find.

My Best Advice for This Stage

Buy the basics, set up the room enough that it functions, and hold off on anything else until after the baby arrives and you know what you are actually reaching for. Every baby is different. Some need every sleep gadget ever made. Some sleep through anything.

Also: do not buy too many newborn size clothes. I cannot stress this enough. That size is gone so fast.

I would love to know what made the biggest difference for you in those early weeks. Drop it in the comments, please. I am taking notes.

This post contains affiliate links. I only share things I genuinely like or am considering for our own family.

So glad you are here. xo, Pam