Newborn Essentials: A Real-Parent Guide for the First 90 Days

The excitement of giving birth can be an expensive one. We’ve been there. One moment your newborn essentials list includes the usual lampins and diapers; the next you suddenly have a fancy bouncer, a white noise machine, and a self-rocking crib in your cart. It’s easy to get carried away—not to mention overwhelmed—with baby gear. But your life might be simpler with the basics, especially for your baby’s first 90 days.

Here's a mom-tested and mom-approved guide to newborn essentials that you’ll actually need and use!

How to Make a Newborn Essentials List

Your list can be as straightforward as enumerating what you anticipate your baby will need. If you want to be more organized, you can arrange it by action: these items are for bathing, while these items are for feeding. You can also categorize your shopping list according to location: beside the bed, on the changing table, or in the bathroom.

Regardless of how you’re nesting right now and whatever your favorite online marketplace is showing you, essential newborn care boils down to: a safe place for your baby to sleep, appropriate clothing, and diapering supplies.

Non-Negotiable Baby Things to Buy Before Giving Birth

One of the most often overlooked newborn essentials is a safe sleeping safe for your little one. Keep the mattress firm with a fitted sheet, with no blankets, pillows, or other loose items.

These are the daily-use items that make up the heart of newborn care, based on personal experience and expert-backed advice:

A safe sleep setup

Whether a crib, bassinet, a firm foam mattress in a duyan, or a co-sleeper, ensure your baby’s sleep area is safe, flat, and free of pillows or thick bedding. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), newborns need a firm sleep surface with a fitted sheet—no need for extras.

Comfortable clothing

During days at home, you can dress your baby in simple onesies with snap bottoms for easy diapering. If your baby spits up often, you can use tie-sides or barubaruan. These are pretty much tops or bodysuits that are laced on the side for quick changes. Go for presko fabrics, like bamboo, cotton, mesh, and linen, to help your baby stay cool amid the local tropical climate.

Whether you use air-conditioning or an electric fan, keep your baby comfortable during the evening. Sleepwear should keep your newborn cool but covered since overheating increases the risk of SIDS, according to the AAP. Avoid any hoods, zippers near the face, or thick layers.

Diapers

Diapers and lampins are a given but don’t forget wipes (water-based, if possible) and cotton balls to assist you in washing your baby’s butt. A waterproof changing mat and gentle diaper cream are also terrific newborn essentials to have handy!

Burp cloths

Spit-ups and leaks are real and frequent. You can stock up on as many burp cloths as you want. These multipurpose fabrics aren’t just for lungad; they can also work as cloth diapers, swaddles, and all-around pampunas.

Swaddles

A decade ago, burp cloths worked double-duty as swaddles. But these days, manufacturers have designed zip-up or Velcro swaddles that don’t unravel easily and are quick to put on and take off (for those nighttime diaper changes). Whichever way you choose to swaddle, understand that newborns often sleep better when they're bundled up like this, especially in the first few weeks. Swaddling helps reduce the Moro (startle) reflex, according to the AAP, and can promote longer sleep stretches. Just make sure the material is breathable.

Breastfeeding aids

This is more for you, Mom. Breastfeeding is not always a walk in the park. You might need an arsenal that includes nipple balm for chafing woes, warm compresses for discomfort, or nursing pads to control leaks. Mom-to-mom, you can also stock up on milk-enhancing cookies or treats. They can sustain you and help your baby, too!

Thermometer and nail clippers.

A digital thermometer is a must for monitoring fevers, especially during sudden weather changes or common colds. Nail clippers designed for babies help prevent accidental scratches on their delicate skin. Look for ones with safety guards and an easy grip.

Car seat

If you have a car, this is non-negotiable. It’s not widely practiced in the Philippines, but using a car seat is required by law and strongly recommended by safety experts. In fact, the Child Safety in Motor Vehicles Act mandates car seats for children under 12 in private cars.

Choose a seat appropriate for your newborn’s weight and age, and install it rear-facing. It’s one of the best ways to protect your baby during rides, whether you're heading home from the hospital or going on errands.

Useful, But Nice to Have Newborn Baby Needs

These items can make your life more convenient, but they’re not essential for every family. You can buy them as needed or add them to your wish list and hope a generous ninang will make that purchase.

Baby carrier or wrap

These free up your hands and help soothe your baby while promoting bonding. These carriers are great for multitasking, especially when you need to cook, tidy up, or go out.

White noise machine

Are your neighbors particularly noisy or do you live smack in the middle of the city? White noise machines are designed to mimic the sounds of the womb, which some babies find soothing. It can help improve sleep quality during daytime naps or noisy nights.

Baby bathtub

Easier to use than your trusty palanggana and safer than the bathroom sink, baby bathtubs also make a more comfortable bathtime experience for you and your baby. Look for foldable or space-saving designs ideal if you have a small bathroom or live in a condo.

Mild laundry detergent

It’s better to be safe than sorry. Milk laundry detergent is good for babies with sensitive skin. Some parents notice fewer rashes and reactions when switching to fragrance-free formulas.

Worth-the-Splurge Items (If Budget Allows)

A bassinet or rocker can be useful whenever you need your hands free at home.

If your budget has a bit of breathing room, these parent-loved upgrades can add a real dose of comfort and convenience for you and your bub.

A quality stroller or carrier

If you’re always on the go with your baby, a stroller can be a godsend. Imagine carrying your baby to the pediatrician’s and you suddenly need to go to a bathroom, only to realize that you must do it all while holding your child.

Find one that fits your lifestyle: lightweight for errands or all-terrain for walks around the village. Look for features like one-hand folding, sunshades, and recline options. It might also be cost-efficient to choose a stroller that grows with your child so you don’t need to keep buying new ones.

A comfy nursing chair or rocker

Long feeding sessions are inevitable. A good chair provides lumbar support and gentle motion to soothe your baby (and your tired arms).

A baby monitor

A baby monitor is handy if your baby sleeps in a separate room or if you need to leave them alone in their safe space for a quick second. Smart monitors with mobile apps offer peace of mind, but basic audio versions can do a good enough job.

An air purifier or cooling fan

In this country where humidity and allergens are constant challenges, investing in cleaner air can help your newborn sleep better and breathe easier.

Every parent has different capabilities and even your baby will have preferences. Some moms have closets full of gadgets and gizmos, while others can make do with a few well-chosen newborn essentials. Remember, the most important thing in the first 90 days isn’t the brand of your swaddle. It’s the quiet, consistent acts of care that make your baby feel safe and loved. So, take a deep breath, trust your instincts, and get to know your baby, Mom!

Be prepared at every stage of parenting, from newborn essentials to navigating kiddie tantrums. Join ParentTeam's Facebook Group for parent-to-parent tips!