Newborn Essentials: Everything I Used in the First Week with Baby Boy (from a Third-Time Mama)
As a third-time mama, you’d think I’d have this whole newborn thing down, right? Well, every baby is different, and while I felt more prepared this time around, there were still some products that became absolute must-haves in the first week with my baby boy. From cozy sleepers to lifesaving baby gear, I’ve rounded up everything I used to survive that magical, chaotic first week. If you’re a new mama, or even a seasoned pro, these essentials are game-changers!
1. Cloud Island Modal Blend Romper from Target
Let’s start with the coziest of cozy: these Cloud Island modal blend rompers from Target are hands down the softest sleepers I’ve ever used. Baby boy basically lived in these during the first week, and I can’t blame him—they’re breathable, gentle on his sensitive skin, and perfect for easy diaper changes in the middle of the night. Trust me, stock up on these!
2. Boppy Nursing Pillow
If you’re breastfeeding, the Boppy nursing pillow is an absolute lifesaver. I brought mine to the hospital and used it from day one—it made nursing so much easier (because let’s face it, those first few days are tough). It gave me the support I needed to comfortably feed baby boy, and I’ve used it at home every single day since. Plus, it doubles as a lounger for baby!
3. MAM Pacifiers
We went through two different pacifiers before discovering the MAM pacifiers, and they were the only ones baby boy would take! These pacifiers are actually made by dentists, so they’re designed to be safe for your baby’s developing mouth and teeth. If you’re in pacifier trial-and-error mode like we were, give these a try!
4. HALO Sleepsack
We were gifted a HALO Sleepsack at the hospital, and it’s been our go-to ever since! It’s such an easy way to swaddle baby boy, keeping him snug without the hassle of wrapping a traditional blanket (which I can never do right anyway, LOL). It’s especially useful during those middle-of-the-night diaper changes, when you just need to zip, change, and go back to sleep.
5. Baby Trend Pack ‘n Play with Portable Bassinet & Changing Table
If you want a product that does it all, this Baby Trend Pack ‘n Play is it. We use it for living room naps, and the changing table attachment means we don’t need a separate changing station in the house. The built-in storage is super handy too—diapers, wipes, and creams all have a spot within arm’s reach, making those quick changes even quicker.
6. Dream On Me Bassinet
For bedside sleeping, the Dream On Me bassinet is perfect. It’s simple, sturdy, and the perfect size to keep baby close during the night. I love how compact it is, which is ideal for smaller spaces or if you’re moving it between rooms.
7. UPPAbaby MESA V2 Car Seat
This was a baby shower gift, and let me tell you—it’s a game-changer! The UPPAbaby MESA V2 is incredibly lightweight, which is a huge relief after lugging around heavier car seats with my two daughters. It makes getting in and out of the car with baby boy so much easier, especially when you’re juggling two other kiddos!
8. Itzy Ritzy Muslin 4-in-1 Car Seat Cover
We don’t leave the house without this Itzy Ritzy muslin car seat cover—especially with baby boy being born in the fall. The cute checkered pattern is totally my vibe, and I love how versatile it is. It doubles as a nursing cover, blanket, or even just a sunshade when we’re out and about.
9. Eddie Bauer Cascade Backpack Diaper Bag
I’m a backpack diaper bag mama all the way, and the Eddie Bauer Cascade is my current fave. It’s roomy, has all the pockets I need, and the neutral style works great for everyday use. Everything stays organized, and it’s super comfy to wear, even when it’s packed to the brim.
10. Itzy Ritzy Clear Pacifier Case
This Itzy Ritzy pacifier case matches the car seat cover, and I love how it attaches right to the diaper bag. It keeps pacifiers clean and easy to grab when baby boy needs soothing.
11. NoseFrida Electric Snotsucker
If you know, you know! The NoseFrida electric snotsucker is one of those gross but necessary items, and I’m so glad we have it on hand. It’s seriously a lifesaver when baby’s nose gets stuffy.
12. Aquaphor Healing Ointment
This is a multi-purpose must-have. We use Aquaphor on everything from diaper rashes to dry skin. It’s gentle, effective, and a staple in our diaper bag.
13. KeaBabies Baby Wrap
Baby boy wants to be attached to mama 24/7, and the KeaBabies wrap makes that possible while letting me get things done around the house. It did take a YouTube tutorial to figure out, but once I got the hang of it, it’s been a game-changer!
14. Muslin Burp Cloths from Target
I can’t get enough of these Cloud Island muslin burp cloths from Target. They’re soft, absorbent, and big enough to handle any messes baby boy throws our way.
15. Frida Baby 3-in-1 Humidifier & Air Purifier
We started using the Frida Baby humidifier and air purifier combo during the first week, and it’s been great for keeping the air clean and hydrated for baby. Bonus: it has a nightlight, which adds a soft glow to the nursery.
16. Mustela No-Rinse Cleansing Gel
Perfect for those first few days when baby boy couldn’t have a full bath. The Mustela no-rinse cleansing gel is super gentle and easy to use for quick wipe-downs.
17. Aden + Anais Muslin Swaddle Blankets
These Aden + Anais swaddle blankets are my absolute favorite. They’re soft, breathable, and perfect for swaddling or using as a light blanket.
18. Haakaa New Mom Starter Kit
If you’re a breastfeeding mama, the Haakaa new mom starter kit is a must. It’s perfect for catching letdown while baby is nursing, and has been so helpful in those early days of breastfeeding.
19. Budget-Friendly Baby Gear We Love
Lastly, here’s some of the more affordable gear we’ve been loving:
- Ingenuity 2-in-1 Happy Belly Rock to Bounce Baby Seat – Scored this during Target Circle week, and it’s been perfect for keeping baby boy content.
- Bright Starts Playful Paradise Portable Baby Swing – Great for soothing him to sleep.
- Bright Starts Activity Gym Play Mat – Ideal for tummy time and early play.
Final Thoughts: Newborn Essentials That Work for Every Mama
These essentials made my life so much easier in the first week with baby boy. Whether you’re a first-time mom or a third-time mama like me, these items are tried-and-true lifesavers that I used day in and day out. Bonus? Many of them are affordable and easy to find, especially at Target (because, let’s be real, we’re all obsessed).
Let me know if you’ve tried any of these products or if you have any newborn must-haves that I need to add to my list! Be sure to check out my favorites in my ShopMy linked below!
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