Bare Minimum Baby Gear: Postpartum Essentials for New Parents

Listen to this blog at your preferred speed here 👆

As a new parent, onesies and diapers are a given, but what about the rest of the baby gear? How do you keep it from taking over your house, blowing your budget, and feeling bad about the impact on the environment?

When we moved from Seattle to Japan when I was nearly 6 months pregnant, I had some difficult choices to make about what to buy State-side and what to get once we were settled abroad, without knowing where or how to get it.

Ultimately, this move so close to our due date meant that I didn't really have options, and it forced me to stick with my simplified baby gear supplies instead of getting swept up into the marketing hype of all the baby extras. In hindsight, this was probably for the best because once I met my awake, alert, restless baby, I was ready to buy almost anything promising me a few extra minutes of sleep even though now, as a postpartum doula, I see these things rarely live up to their promises.

So, what does a postpartum doula consider essential in terms of baby gear? Here are the basics I would focus on if I had to start again from scratch.

Essential Baby Gear for New Parents

Sleeping Essentials

1. Safe Sleep Space: A firm, flat mattress without toys, blankets, or bumpers is crucial for your baby's safety. Whether you choose a crib, bassinet, or co-sleeper, ensure it meets safety standards to prevent Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). When considering what you really need, a safe sleep space should be at the top of your list of essential baby gear.

2. Swaddle Blankets: These are indispensable for helping your baby feel secure and sleep better. Swaddle blankets can also be repurposed later as window shades on road trips or for snuggling on cozy movie nights. I still use the ones we got for my baby girl for various purposes around the house. This simple item is a must-have for new parents.

3. White Noise Machine: A white noise machine, like the Hatch rest nightlight + white noise version is super useful for creating a consistent sleep environment. You can also consider a Hushh portable, battery powered one if you’re more likely to be on the go but they stay useful even beyond the newborn stage! We still use ours to signal when it's time to get up in the morning and when traveling to help our kids sleep in unfamiliar places. It’s essential in our house!

Feeding Essentials

1. Nursing Pads and Ointment: Nursing can be tough on new moms, so having nursing pads to catch leaks and ointment to soothe sore nipples is necessary. These small items can make a big difference in your comfort and confidence while breastfeeding. These are basic baby items you need to have on hand from day one.

2. Haakaa or Other Milk Collection Devices: A Haakaa can function as a simple, manual breast pump that can help you collect milk easily while nursing your baby at the same time. It’s particularly useful for catching letdown milk that might otherwise go to waste. This is another piece of simple baby gear that proves to be incredibly practical.

3. Baby Bottles and Cleaning Tools: Even if you plan to primarily breastfeed, having a few baby bottles on hand can be useful for pumped milk or formula feeding. Having dedicated brushes and a drying rack is also useful, especially if you plan to share feeding responsibilities.

Diapering Essentials

1. Diapers and Wipes: Whether you choose cloth or disposable diapers, having an ample supply is a must. Stash small collections upstairs, downstairs, in a diaper bag, and in the car, and you’ll never be left empty handed. And truly, you can never have too many wipes. Even long after your baby is out of diapers, wipes are still useful for cleaning hands and faces and strollers and steering wheels (ask me how I know).

2. Wet Bags: We originally bought ours for cloth diapering, and here we are, 9 years later, still putting these to use for swim lessons! We still use our Thirsties brand wet bags for wet and dirty clothes, trips to the beach, and overnights at the grandparents’. They’re great for containing messes and keeping everything else in the backpack dry.

3. Diaper Cream and Changing Pad: Diaper cream helps prevent and treat diaper rash, while a portable changing pad makes diaper changes more convenient and sanitary, whether you're at home or on the go. These are simple baby gear essentials that you’ll reach for multiple times a day.

More Baby Gear to Consider

Get your Countdown Calendar in your inbox today!

Comfort and Convenience

1. Baby Carrier: A baby carrier is a must-have for hands-free convenience and for keeping your baby close, which can help with bonding and calming a fussy baby. Whether you prefer a wrap, ring sling, or a structured carrier, find one that suits your lifestyle and comfort. This is one of those simple baby gear essentials that many parents can't live without.

2. Bouncy Seat or Swing: A bouncy seat or swing really useful when you need to set your baby down safely but still keep them entertained or soothed. These are especially useful during those times when you need to take a quick shower or prepare a meal and you want to keep your baby safely contained in the room with you. Just don’t get too distracted by music and levels of vibration on the seat - get the one that’s easy to use and fits your house.

3. Supportive Pillows for Feeding: Whether you're breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, a supportive pillow can make a big difference in your comfort and posture. It helps to reduce strain on your arms, neck, and back during feeding sessions, which can be frequent and long in the early weeks. Supportive pillows are simple baby gear essentials that help make feeding time more comfortable for both you and your baby.

Health and Safety

1. Infant Car Seat: Safety comes first, and an infant car seat is non-negotiable for bringing your baby home and for any future travel. Ensure the car seat is properly installed and meets all safety standards. Consider getting it checked by a certified car seat technician if you're unsure. Your local fire station might provide this service - just call to check. This is one of the basic baby items you need to have ready before your baby arrives.

2. First Aid Kit and Baby Thermometer: Keep a first aid kit tailored for infants, along with a reliable baby thermometer ready just in case. While you hope never to need it, being prepared for minor scrapes, fevers, or other health concerns is important. Having the basic items on hand allows you to respond quickly and calmly to any issues that arise.

3. Baby Monitor: A baby monitor can provide reassurance when your baby is sleeping in another room. Most families choose to keep their newborn next to the adult bed for the first several months, and when they are ready, shift baby’s sleep into their own sleep space. This is when a simple audio monitor or a more advanced video monitor can help you keep an eye (or ear) on your baby from a distance, allowing you some peace of mind while they nap.

Pregnancy and Birth Recovery Essentials

1. Postpartum Pads and Underwear: After giving birth, having a stock of high-quality postpartum pads and comfortable, supportive underwear is crucial. These items help manage postpartum bleeding, which can last for several weeks. Many new parents find that disposable mesh underwear provided by hospitals are convenient for the early days, but investing in a few pairs of postpartum-specific underwear can offer better comfort and support. Ask your care team what they will provide so that you can supplement as needed.

2. Perineal Care: Healing after a vaginal birth takes time and having the right tools can make a big difference. Perineal sprays, witch hazel pads (like Tucks), and a peri bottle can help soothe and clean the area, promoting faster healing. Some people also swear by cold packs or “padsicles” to reduce swelling and discomfort. These are simple items that are essential for a comfortable recovery.

3. Nipple Cream and Breast Care: If you’re breastfeeding, nipple cream is an essential to have on hand from day one. Cracked or sore nipples are common in the early stages of breastfeeding, and a good lanolin-based or plant-based nipple cream can provide much-needed relief. Silverettes may also be a useful option for you. Additionally, breast pads (disposable or reusable) are handy to manage leaks and protect your clothing.

4. Supportive Belly Wrap: Some new parents find that a belly wrap or postpartum support belt can help them feel more secure and supported as their body heals after birth. These wraps can provide gentle compression, which some people find helpful for stabilizing their core and easing back pain. Definitely consider adding a belly wrap to your postpartum care kit.

5. Comfortable Clothing: In the days and weeks following birth, comfort is key. Loose, soft clothing that doesn’t put pressure on sensitive areas is ideal. Nursing bras and tops that make breastfeeding more convenient are also important to have on hand. The goal is to choose items that allow you to focus on your recovery and your baby without feeling restricted or uncomfortable. Simple, comfortable clothing is essential for making your postpartum experience more manageable.

Overhyped Baby Gear

1. Wipe Warmers:

   Wipe warmers are a popular item that many new parents think they need, but they often fall short of expectations. While the idea of a warm wipe seems comforting, the reality is that wipes work just as well at room temperature. Warmers can dry out the wipes, require regular maintenance, and you’ll need to find an outlet nearby to plug it in. Once the initial novelty wears off, most parents find they can easily do without this gadget. In terms of essential baby gear, wipe warmers don't quite make the cut.

2. Fancy Baby Clothes:

   It’s completely understandable to want to dress your baby in beautiful outfits, especially when everything is so tiny and adorable. However, it’s important to remember that every piece of clothing will need to be washed, dried, and stored. Also, babies are notorious for spit-up, drooling, and diaper blowouts, so anything requiring special care will only introduce extra stress during the fourth trimester. Simple baby gear essentials, like easy-to-wash cotton onesies and sleepers are much more practical and less stressful.

3. Bottle Warmers:

   Bottle warmers can seem like a convenient solution for heating cold milk, but they often don’t offer a significant advantage over traditional methods, like warming bottles in a bowl of warm water. They can be bulky, take up valuable counter space, and require a plug to work, which isn’t always convenient when you’re on the go. For many parents, the extra gadget ends up being more of a hassle than a help, and they’re don’t even save that much time. This is an example of baby gear that you might be able to skip in favor of simpler methods.

4. High-End Baby Monitors and Safety Monitors:

   High-end baby monitors, especially those that promise to track your baby’s breathing or heart rate, can sound appealing for peace of mind. However, these monitors can produce false alarms that fuel anxiety, especially when parents are just learning to interpret their baby’s normal (and often noisy) sleep patterns. Many babies are naturally noisy, snorty, and irregular breathers, which is not necessarily a sign of distress. Instead of offering reassurance, these monitors can lead to sleepless nights for parents worried by unnecessary alerts. This is an example of baby gear that overpromises safety but might not deliver the peace of mind you're looking for.

5. Specialized Baby Gadgets:

   Formula Dispensers: While the idea of a machine that perfectly mixes and dispenses formula is tempting, these gadgets can be more trouble than they’re worth. Postpartum doulas often share stories of dispensers that are clogged, inaccurate, and require frequent cleaning—all of which adds up to potential risks and frustrations when feeding your baby. Sometimes, simpler baby gear is the better choice.

   Electronic Bassinets: Some high-end bassinets promise more sleep for both babies and parents by rocking the baby automatically or syncing to an app. So fancy, right? However, these can keep babies reliant on swaddling and motion for sleep well beyond the first 8-10 weeks, making the transition to independent sleep more challenging. Additionally, the hefty price tag and need for constant monitoring via an app (and access to another electrical outlet) can add unnecessary stress. In the end, simpler sleep solutions might be more effective and less stressful.

6. Baby Swings:

   Baby swings can be lifesavers in small doses, but they often promise more than they deliver. While they can soothe some babies temporarily, other babies may not respond well to the motion. Additionally, swings take up a lot of space, can be pricey, and are only useful for a limited time before your baby outgrows them. Over-reliance on swings can also make it harder for babies to settle into quiet moods without constant movement. This is one of those baby gear items that might be better to borrow temporarily or skip altogether.

7. Stimulating Floor Gyms:

   Floor gyms with lots of hanging toys, lights, and sounds are marketed as essential for your baby’s development, but they can be totally overstimulating. Simple playmats with fewer distractions are often just as engaging, allowing babies to focus on exploring their environment at their own pace. Additionally, big baby gyms can be bulky, difficult to store, and quickly outgrown as your baby’s interests evolve. When considering essential baby gear, simpler options are often more beneficial.

8. Diaper Pails:

   Diaper pails are often marketed as the ultimate solution for odor control, but many parents find that a regular trash can with a tight lid works just as well. Plus, specialized pails require specific, often expensive, refill bags, and if not maintained perfectly, still allow odors to escape. A basic, odor-resistant trash bin can be just as effective with fewer ongoing costs. This is an example of baby gear where a simple, non-baby alternatives can be just as effective.

Baby Gear for Aspiring Minimalists

As you prepare for your baby’s arrival, it’s natural to want the best gear to make this new chapter as smooth as possible. It’s also easy to get swept up in the excitement of buying convenience items, beautifully designed products, or gadgets that promise to make life easier. And that’s okay! Every parent deserves to feel prepared and supported as they step into this new role.

However, as many parents discover by the six-month mark, simpler is often better. Simpler is easier. Simpler is almost always less expensive. There’s already so much to learn and adapt to in the newborn stage—from feeding and sleeping routines to understanding your baby’s unique needs—that adding unnecessarily complex baby gear to the mix can sometimes do more harm than good.

By focusing on practical, essential baby gear and avoiding overhyped items, you can reduce stress, save money, and create a more peaceful environment for both you and your baby. Remember, it’s not about having every possible tool at your disposal, but about having the right tools that truly meet your needs. Embracing simplicity allows you to focus on what really matters: bonding with your baby and finding joy in these early, precious moments.

As you continue to navigate parenthood, trust your instincts and know that it’s perfectly fine to skip the overhyped items in favor of what works best for your family. Parenthood is a journey of discovery, and the more you simplify, the more space you’ll have to enjoy the ride.

Next Steps:

This post draws heavily from one of my lessons in the Prepping for Parenthood course. If you love this content, I encourage you to explore the course for more in-depth information and support.

The Prepping for Parenthood Course:

1. Comprehensive Modules: The course offers detailed modules covering all aspects of the postpartum period, including physical recovery, emotional support, and newborn care. Whether you're preparing for a surgical birth or a vaginal birth, the course provides valuable information to help you manage your recovery and adjust to life with a newborn.

2. Expert Guidance: Learn from me, a certified and experienced postpartum doula, about topics like postpartum preparation, newborn care, lactation, and safe infant sleep. My goal is to provide you with the knowledge and confidence you need to navigate this new phase of life.

3. Flexible Learning: Access the course materials at your own pace, allowing you to revisit important topics as needed. This flexibility ensures that you can fit the course into your busy schedule as a new parent.

By enrolling in Prepping for Parenthood, you'll gain access to a wealth of knowledge and support that can make a significant difference in your postpartum experience.

Share Your Story!

I want to hear from you! Your experiences and insights are valuable, not only to me but also to other new parents who may be reading this post. Here are some ways to engage and connect:

Leave a comment below:  Where do you fall on the baby gear minimalist scale? Are you more likely to buy whatever it takes or are you hoping to get by with as little as possible?

Or send me a DM on Instagram to share the one piece of baby gear you can’t wait to put to use! Your stories can provide support and comfort to others going through similar experiences ❤️

Join My Community:

Sign up for my newsletter to receive regular updates, encouragements, and support for new parents. The newsletter is filled with practical advice, personal stories, and resources to help you through the fourth trimester and beyond.

Explore More Resources:

Check out my other blog posts on postpartum care, physical recovery, and emotional support. Here are a few you might find helpful:

• Why Protecting Your Happy Habits is the Key to Creating Positive Postpartum Routines

• What is a Postpartum Doula and How Can They Help You?

• 4 Practical Ways a Virtual Postpartum Doula Can Help

Learn More About My Postpartum Doula Services:

Interested in personalized support? Learn more about my Day with a Doula and All Access Doula Pass services, which allow you to reach out for one-on-one doula care when you need it most! These services offer tailored support and guidance to help you navigate the challenges of early parenthood with confidence.

Related Posts