10 Newborn Must-Haves (SERIOUSLY): A First-Time Parent’s Guide to Survival

Bringing your newborn home is a whirlwind of emotions—pure joy, a little bit of panic (a little more panic than anything), and a whole lot of "What do I actually need?" If you’re feeling overwhelmed like we did, take a deep breath. You don’t need everything you see on social media. There are, however, a few essentials to have ready that we'll cover this post. So, here’s a tried-and-tested list of newborn must-haves that saved our sanity—and can guarantee that it will save yours too.

1. A FUNCTIONAL Bassinet

Why it’s essential:

Newborns sleep up to 16-18 hours a day, so having a safe, cozy space for them is key. Look for a firm mattress and avoid loose blankets or toys to reduce the risk of SIDS.

Our pick:

The SNOO Smart Sleeper was a game-changer!

• Responsive Soothing: The SNOO senses your baby’s cries and automatically adjusts its rocking motion and sound level to calm your little one back to sleep.

• Safe Sleep Design: With its built-in swaddling system, the SNOO keeps your baby securely on their back—promoting a safe sleep environment.

• Built-In White Noise & Gentle Rocking: The integrated white noise and soothing rocking help create a calming atmosphere that encourages longer, more restful sleep.

• Parental Peace of Mind: Its smart, automated features reduce the need for constant monitoring, giving first-time parents extra reassurance and time to rest themselves.

Modern Parent Truths Reality Check Score:
The Snoo is a DREAM, but the price tag is steep. If it’s not in the budget, check for second-hand options or rent one. Check with your employer to see if they offer any discounts as part of your benefits package!

We looked at similar products, but the Snoo is a game changer. If you have the means to get your hands on one, DO IT! It's one of the only products out there tested to reduce the risk of SIDS. My husband and I slept at ease knowing our baby was sleeping safe.

2. Swaddle Blankets

Why it’s essential:
Swaddling mimics the womb, keeps babies snug, and prevents the startle reflex that wakes them up.

Our pick:

The Sleepea 5-Second Swaddle by Happiest Baby and the Love to Dream Swaddle were our top choices. One keeps arms snug, the other allows some movement—perfect for different sleep preferences.

Why the Sleepea Swaddle:

• Wrap in a Snap: The Sleepea 5-Second Swaddle (it really only takes 5-seconds, super easy) makes bedtime a breeze. You can wrap your baby in just seconds—even on those sleep-deprived nights—so there’s less time fussing over wrapping.

• Cozy, Secure Comfort: Made with soft, breathable fabric, it gently hugs your little one to keep them snug and secure while reducing that startling reflex. It’s like a warm, reassuring embrace that helps your baby settle into a peaceful sleep.

• Thoughtful Design for Happy Nights: Crafted with care for both safety and ease of use, the Sleepea swaddle lets your baby sleep comfortably without feeling overly confined—ensuring both you and your baby get more of those precious, restful nights.

Modern Parent Truth Reality Check Score:
Both are affordable, easy to use, and a total sleep lifesaver. Our baby LOVES both but our score goes for the SleepPea Swaddle!

3. Diapers and Wipes

Why it’s essential:

Newborns go through 10-12 diapers a day. We didn't believe it at first but it's true! Our baby went through 80 diapers her first week alone! Make sure to stock-up. Also, pay attention to dipper sizes, they are usually sized by baby weight. We tried various diaper brands such as Huggies, Pampers, Honest, but our baby was less fussy with the two below:

Our picks:

Kirkland Diapers (Costco) – Soft, reliable, and prevented countless blowouts. Great value for the product!

Coterie Diapers - Luxury quality, premium materials, ULTRA-SOFT. Seriously, the softest diapers I've ever felt. Our baby LOVES them.
Pampers Wipes – Gentle, unscented, and stay moist longer.
Refillable Wipe Dispenser – Because pulling out wipes one at a time should NOT be a struggle.

Modern Parent Truths Reality Check:
Diapers and wipes are non-negotiable. Kirkland is a great budget-friendly choice, but Coterie is incredible. We recommend testing a few brands to see what works for your baby. Take your pick!

4. Baby Nighties

Why it’s essential: Midnight diaper changes are not easy. You will be sleep deprived, tired, confused, and grumpy. The last thing you need is a complex nighty. Trust us, you want easy-to-zip outfits, not tiny buttons!

Our pick:

Cloud Island Modal Blend Romper from Target—soft, stretchy, and features a two-way zipper (it matters!).

Modern Parent Truths Reality Check:
Simple, practical, and affordable. You don’t need fancy outfits—just functional ones.

5. Car Seat

Why it’s essential: You can’t leave the hospital without one!

Our pick:

Evenflo Shyft DualRide Car Seat and Stroller Convo– This is an awesome product. Perfect for all parents especially travelers. We too this to our vacation. One of our favorite features is how easy it was to convert from stroller to care seat and secure without a car seat base!

• Effortless Conversion: Transforms from car seat to stroller in one step.

• Robust Safety: LockStrong, Quick Connectors, and SensorSafe alerts keep your baby secure.

• Handy Extras: Includes a carryall bag, washable wheel wells, and a cup holder.

Modern Parent Truths Reality Check Score:
Solid choice, but can get heavy with a baby onboard. Otherwise, we loved how practical it is!

6. Baby Bottles and Breast Pump

Why it’s essential:

Even if you’re breastfeeding, having bottles gives flexibility. A good pump is essential for storing milk and relieving engorgement or pain.

Our picks:
Philips Avent Anti-Colic Bottles – Helps reduce gas and fussiness -IT WORKS!

• Smooth Feeding: Reduces colic, gas, and reflux.

• AirFree Advantage: Keeps nipple full of milk for upright, bubble-free feeding.

• Safe & Simple: BPA-free wide neck bottle that's easy to clean and assemble.

Medela Symphony (Hospital-Grade Pump) - Powerful and efficient, perfect for regular pumping. Ideal for home pumping.

• Boosts Milk Production: The INITIATE technology can increase milk output by up to 50%, helping more moms reach full milk volume sooner.

• Hospital-Grade & Versatile: Transition seamlessly from hospital to home with a pump trusted in hospitals—offering flexible single or double pumping modes.

• Ideal for Exclusive Pumpers: Perfect for moms with latching challenges or those exclusively pumping or both.

Medela Freestyle Hands-Free Pump - Ideal for on-the-go pumping. Most ideal portable, rechargeable, easy to carry, discrete pump.

• Hands-Free Freedom: Pump anytime, anywhere with discreet, wearable cups that let you move freely.

• Lightweight & Natural: Ultralight cups (just 2.7 oz each) mimic the natural shape of your breast for a comfortable fit.

• Smart Expression: Two-phase technology replicates your baby’s natural suck, stimulating milk flow efficiently.

Pro Tip: Check your insurance coverage for a free breast pump through Aeroflow Breast Pumps.

Modern Parent Truths Reality Check Score:

Philips Avent Anti-Colic bottles significantly reduce colics for our baby. We tried other brands and Phillips product lines, but the Anti-Colic line is the best.

A pump is a lifesaver—if you plan to pump, invest in both of these machines. Again, check with your insurance company for benefits.

7. Sterilizer and Sanitizer

Why it’s essential:

Newborns have fragile immune systems—keeping bottles clean and sterile is a must.

Our pick:

Momcozy Bottle Sterilizer and Sanitizer – Holds multiple bottles, lots of space, easy to use.

• Spacious & Efficient: Its 3-layer design can handle 6-12 bottles along with all your pump parts, pacifiers, and teethers—perfect for busy parents. It's awesome!

• Quick Sterilization & Lasting Safety: Sterilizes in just 9 minutes with powerful steam, then keeps items sterile for up to 24 hours.

• Smart, Multi-Functional Design: Comes with a dedicated breast pump part holder, HEPA-filtered clean air, auto shutdown, and memory function for effortless use.

Modern Parent Truths Reality Check Score:

Definitely a time-saver for busy parents. Shy of 5-stars due to its small water tank, but it's not a deal-breaker at all.

8. Baby Bouncer

Why it’s essential:

Gives you a safe place to put baby down while you shower, eat, or breathe!

Our pick:

Baby Bjorn Bouncer – Lightweight, ergonomic, and super comfortable. Highly recommend getting one of these.

Modern Parent Truths Reality Check:

Worth every penny.

9. Baby Carrier

Why it’s essential:

Keeps baby close, hands-free, and calms fussy moments. You'll need one of these.

Our pick:

Boba Wrap Baby Carrier – Soft, stretchy, and super cozy.

Modern Parent Truths Reality Check:

This wrap feels like a warm hug for both you and baby—100% worth it.

10. Electric Nail File

Why it’s essential:

Baby nails grow fast, and clippers can be nerve-wracking.

Our pick:

Electric Nail File – Soft, baby-safe, and stress-free.

Modern Parent Truths Reality Check:

This makes filing nails a breeze, and it's fun! It's a game changer. It will take you a session to get the hang of it. First time using it can be intimidating!