What to Buy Before Baby Arrives — The Real List

The internet will tell you that you need 200 things before your baby arrives. You don't. Most of what's on those lists is either unnecessary, duplicated, or something you can buy later when you know what you actually need.

Here's the real list — what to have ready before your due date, and what can wait.

Must Have Before Baby Arrives

🚗 Car Seat

Non-negotiable. You legally cannot leave the hospital without one. Install it before your due date and get it checked by a certified technician if possible.

🛌 A Safe Sleep Surface

You need somewhere for baby to sleep from night one. A firm, flat, breathable surface is essential. Options include a crib, bassinet, or a portable baby space for daytime use. The Avera Baby Space is ideal for daytime naps and moving between rooms — washable, breathable, and foldable.

🍼 Feeding Supplies

Whether you're breastfeeding or formula feeding, have the basics ready: nursing bras, breast pads, a pump (if breastfeeding), or formula and bottles (if formula feeding). Don't over-buy bottles before you know which ones your baby prefers.

🛀 Nappies & Wipes

Buy a small pack of newborn nappies and a larger pack of size 1. Don't stockpile newborn — some babies skip straight to size 1. Stock up on fragrance-free wipes.

👕 Clothing (The Minimum)

6–8 sleepsuits in newborn and 0–3 month sizes. Babies live in sleepsuits. Don't buy outfits — they're impractical and babies outgrow them before they're worn.

🛁 Bathing Basics

A baby bath or bath insert, fragrance-free baby wash, and a soft towel. That's it for now.

Can Wait Until After Baby Arrives

• Baby monitor (you'll figure out what features you actually need)
• Bouncer or rocker (borrow one first to see if your baby likes it)
• Baby carrier (try before you buy — fit matters)
• Toys (newborns can't use them)
• High chair (not needed until 4–6 months)

The One Thing Most Lists Forget

A portable baby space for daytime use. Your baby won't spend all their time in the nursery — they'll be wherever you are. Having a safe, portable space that moves with you is one of the most practical things you can own from day one.

The Avera Baby Space is fully washable, foldable, and breathable — designed for the real, messy, beautiful chaos of new parenthood.

👉 Add the Avera Baby Space to your pre-baby list — you'll use it from day one.