The Ultimate Baby Prep Guide: Must Have Baby Gear Before Baby Arrives

The Ultimate Baby Prep Guide: Must Have Baby Gear Before Baby Arrives

Welcoming a new baby into your life is one of the most exciting—and sometimes overwhelming—adventures you’ll ever embark on. From setting up a nursery to choosing the right baby gear, there’s a lot to consider! Add in the endless advice from friends, family, and the internet, and it’s easy to feel a little lost.

But don’t worry—we’ve created a thoughtful checklist to guide you through the essentials. This list is designed to help you focus on the must-haves, keeping things simple and stress-free during those early months.


Must-Have Baby Gear: Essentials for New Parents

With so many baby products out there, it’s easy to feel tempted to buy everything. The truth? You really don’t need it all. Here’s a curated list of newborn essentials that will simplify your life:

  • Safe Sleep Essentials: A crib, a firm mattress, and fitted sheets are all you need to help your baby rest comfortably.
  • Feeding Supplies: Bottles, a breast pump (if you’re breastfeeding), and a sterilizer will cover the basics.
  • Diapering Must-Haves: Diapers (start with small packs of different brands!), wipes, a changing pad, and diaper cream.
  • Clothing Basics: Onesies, sleepers, socks, and a few hats—but skip buying too many hats since they outgrow them quickly.
  • Car Seat: This is an absolute non-negotiable for safe travels with your little one.
  • Baby Carrier: A wonderful way to keep your baby close while keeping your hands free.
  • Stroller: Perfect for those early walks as a family.
  • Bath Time Basics: A baby tub, gentle cleanser, and a soft hooded towel to keep your baby warm after their bath.

Pro Tip: Less is more. Focus on high-quality products that will last, rather than cluttering your home with extras.

Another Pro Tip: Avoid bulk-buying diapers before your baby arrives. Start with a few small packs of different brands to find the best fit for your baby’s needs.


How to Create a Calm and Cozy Nursery

The nursery is more than just a room; it’s your baby’s first little sanctuary. A calm and soothing environment not only supports better sleep but also gives you peace of mind. Here’s how to create the perfect space:

  • Pick Soft, Neutral Colours: Muted tones like soft greens, blues, pinks, or creams help create a tranquil atmosphere.
  • Keep It Minimal: Too much decor can be overstimulating for babies. Stick to clean lines and functional pieces.
  • Blackout Curtains: Controlling light can make a significant difference in helping your baby develop better sleep patterns.
  • Create a Cozy Feeding Spot: A comfortable chair for nighttime feedings or snuggles will quickly become your favourite place in the house. Bonus if it reclines!
  • Use White Noise: Drown out household noises with a white noise machine - Shushiie being the perfect choice!

Shushiie: The Perfect Sleep Companion for Your Baby

If there’s one thing seasoned parents agree on, it’s the value of good sleep—for both you and your baby. Enter Shushiie, the first premium, customizable sleep speaker for babies. Shushiie gently fills the room with soothing sounds, creating an ideal sleep environment while blending beautifully into your nursery.

With its thoughtfully designed features, Shushiie offers parents a helping hand in creating the calm every family needs. It’s more than a product; it’s peace of mind for those precious early months.


Final Thoughts: Embrace the Journey

No checklist can prepare you perfectly for parenthood, and that’s part of the beauty of it! Trust yourself, keep things simple, and remember that every baby—and every parent—is unique. Take it one day at a time, focus on the essentials, and cherish every cuddle and every smile - and remember that, once day, even the challenging moments will have passed by and become just a memory.

And if you’re looking for that one thing to make your journey just a little easier, we’d love for you to discover Shushiie.

 

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About the Author

Hi! I’m Mimi Menani, founder of The Cot and Cradle Company, mother of two, and an advocate for better, more functional parenting solutions. Before creating Shushiie, I worked with global organizations like Google, The Economist, and the World Bank Group, where I honed my problem-solving skills and developed a passion for creating meaningful solutions.

When I became a mom, I channeled my professional expertise and personal experiences into designing products that make a real difference in parents’ lives. My journey with The Cot and Cradle Company started with Shushiie, a customizable sleep speaker created to bring calm and comfort to babies and parents alike.

You can learn more about my professional journey here.