Super soft bristles are great for cradle cap and encouraging healthy scalp. One good brush is enough - look for one with ultra-soft bristles.

While you can buy items separately, a kit is handy for first-time parents. Contains all the basics like nail clippers, brush, and thermometer in one place. One kit is plenty!

You'll want 3-4 of these super-soft towels. Regular towels can work, but baby ones are gentler and sized just right for easy wrapping. The hooded ones keep them even warmer.

Those tiny nails grow surprisingly fast! Get a pair designed for babies - they're easier to use and safer. One good pair is all you need-- so if a health kit you're signed up for has it, you can skip getting a pair separately.

A must-have for safe bathing - sink baths get tricky fast! Look for one that grows with your baby. One good tub is all you need.

Get 6-8 baby washcloths - they're softer than regular ones and perfect for gentle cleaning. Having extras means you're not constantly doing laundry!

You'll change thousands of diapers - a good changing pad makes each one easier. One sturdy pad is enough, but get one with raised sides for safety.

A dresser with a changing pad works fine, but a dedicated table can be worth it for storage and back-saving height. Skip if space is tight!

Start with small packs of newborn and size 1 - babies grow fast and brands fit differently. Pro tip: stock up only after you find what works!

You'll use these for everything, not just diaper changes! Start with sensitive/water wipes for newborn days. You'll want these everywhere you change diapers.

If you're going cloth, proper detergent is crucial for clean, absorbent diapers. Get one specially formulated - regular detergent can cause buildup.

Start with 18-24 if you're going full cloth - this gives you 2-3 days between washes. Try a few styles before buying your full stash!

If you're cloth diapering, these make sense - they can go right in with diaper laundry. 24-36 is usually enough to start.

Keep this on hand from day one - prevention is easier than treating rash! Start with one tube.

Your everyday staples! Get 8-10 in each size. Look for ones with zipper (faster) or snaps (better for middle-of-night changes).

Get 4-5 pairs of PJs to start - you'll want extras for inevitable middle-of-night changes. Look for flame-retardant options!

If you're formula feeding, start with small containers until you know what agrees with baby. Don't stockpile - they might reject certain brands!

Get 2-3 if you're bottle feeding regularly - one for home, one for daycare/travel, and a backup. The cheap ones work just fine!

Essential if you're planning to bottle feed or pump! Get one good insulated bag that fits 2-3 bottles and has space for ice packs. Perfect for short trips, but can also work for longer outings if you're strategic about packing.

Start with what comes with your bottles. Once you know what works, get the next size up to have on hand. Replace every 2-3 months!

Start with 3-4 bottles and different brands/styles - babies can be picky! Once you find one that works, get 6-8 total for full-time bottle feeding.

Check if your insurance covers one! Double electric is best for regular pumping, manual good as backup. Skip if exclusively nursing or formula feeding.

Essential if pumping! Start with a box of bags or 8-10 bottles. You can always get more once you know your storage needs.

Get 8-10 soft ones for drooling/bottles, and 4-5 wipeable ones for solids. You'll be surprised how many you go through!

Stock up - you'll use these for everything! 10-12 is a good starting point. Plain cloth diapers work great and are budget-friendly.

Great for keeping an eye on rear-facing babies. Get one with secure straps and shatterproof glass - you'll use it for years!

Never skip on safety! Start with an infant seat unless you're going straight to convertible. All seats meet safety standards - pay for convenience features.

Great for first 6-12 months. The convenience of taking a sleeping baby in and out is worth it! Look for one that's not too heavy.

Choose based on your lifestyle - urban parents need different features than suburban ones. Try folding/unfolding in store or with a friend's before buying!

Essential for development! Start with a simple mat and mirror. Add a support pillow if baby needs extra encouragement.

Get one cushy, easy-clean mat for floor play. Interlocking foam tiles work great and can grow with baby.

Get one manual and one battery-operated. Sounds gross, but you'll be grateful when baby's stuffed up at 3am! Check any baby first aid kits you got though, often they're included!

Get a reliable digital thermometer with a flexible tip. Those fancy temporal ones are nice but not necessary. Check any baby first aid kits you got though, often they're included!

If using pacifiers, get 4-5 identical ones. Babies often have strong preferences, so don't stock up until you find their favorite!

Great for first few months - easier than running to crib for night feeds. Choose one with mesh sides and firm mattress.

Use the one that comes with your bassinet - they're designed to fit safely. Get one extra fitted sheet though!

Safer alternative to blankets! Get 2-3 in current size - you'll want backup for laundry days.

Get 4-6 lightweight muslin ones - they're perfect for swaddling and a million other uses.

Main sleep space for years - worth investing in a sturdy one. Convertible cribs can save money long-term by converting to toddler beds.

Don't skimp here - get a firm, two-sided one (infant/toddler). You'll use it for years!

Get 2-3 to start in the third trimester. Size up and choose stretchy fabrics - your size will change!

Stock up! Mix of washable and disposable is ideal. You'll go through more than you think in early weeks.

Don't skip this! Stock up on pads, witch hazel, peri bottle before delivery. Hospital supplies won't last long.

Get high-waisted, dark colored ones. Mix of disposable and washable. Size up - comfort is everything right now!