Congratulations, you are pregnant! The upcoming months will be such a special time in your life. In addition to the joy you are feeling in anticipation of your new baby, there can also be the stress of being prepared with everything you could need for your child. The options can be overwhelming—backpack or satchel diaper bag, regular or jogging stroller, visual or audio baby monitor, etc.   

To make it easier, we've narrowed down some of the key baby gear purchases every new parent should consider. We also gathered insights from our Moreland Moms Private Facebook Group (join us!) and top internet sources to share the most recommended items. Please know that what works for one mom may not work for you, which is okay. Your comfort and the baby's comfort are the highest priorities.  

Don't forget to download our Baby Registry Checklist, which covers all the essential items you'll need as a new parent, giving you a head start on staying organized and prepared.  

Strollers 

When it comes to strollers, you need to know what you will be using it for most. Are you a first-time mom looking for something that works with a car seat, a mom of multiples looking to hold more than one kid, or are you looking for something to handle more rugged terrain? Don’t worry, there are options for all of these.  

Our research has shown that for an everyday stroller and car seat combo, the Chicco Bravo Trio Travel System and the Graco Modes ClickConnect top the list.  

Graco DuoGlider Click Connect, Joovy Qool, and City Select Lux are highly recommended if you need a double stroller.  

Bob, Thule, and Graco brands make great models for a stroller that can handle grass, gravel, and rougher terrain with ease. 

Car Seats 

If you choose a stroller with a travel system, you may already have this item covered as we shared above. If not, you will want to research what styles work best for your size vehicle. If your car seat needs a base, get one for any additional vehicles your baby may be traveling in. Many people want a car seat to grow with their child so that additional expenses for new seats are not incurred.  

Suggestions from our Moreland Moms include Diono (it’s narrow), Graco SlimFit, Graco Extend2Fit, Chicco Keyfit30 (fits Chicco strollers).  

Breast Pumps 

Most breastfeeding moms will need a pump to express milk in between feedings. Think about how and when you plan to use it before you purchase it. There are rechargeable, battery backup, wearable, and manual options. Some insurance companies provide pumps to moms—be sure to check before purchasing.  

Our moms highly recommend the Spectra S1 Plus as a great option to take with you on the go. It is rechargeable and effective at expression.  

The Medela Pump In Style comes in a bag for easy transport and has a battery backup.  

Willow is a wearable hands-free pump you can wear under your clothing.  

If you want to express manually, the Medela Harmony® Breast Pump or Haakaa can be your answer.  

Don’t forget to purchase a cooler to store the milk you have expressed until you can get it home. This one comes highly recommended if you have a place at your job to store it.  

Bottles 

Whether you decide to feed your child breastmilk or formula, you will need bottles; again, there are many options. Like with many other things, bottles evolve and include anti-colic options and venting. Finding the right bottle may take some trial and error. 

Top recommended brands include Dr. Browns, Playtex (specifically the drop-ins), Philips Avent, and MAM. 

Monitors 

Baby monitors assure you that your baby is comfortable when you can't be in the same room. Advances in technology allow monitors to see in the dark, provide two-way communication, track breathing, heart rate, and oxygen levels, and provide reporting via a smart device app. Some parents prefer seeing their child, others want to hear the child, and some use both monitors.   

If you are looking for a basic sound monitor, the V-Tech audio monitors fulfill that need.  

If you are looking for video and additional options, our Moms recommend Owlet, Snuza, and Miku.  Wyze and Nest security cameras also come recommended, though they do not have as many baby features.  

Cribs

A crib is one of the biggest purchases you’ll make for your baby, and it’s essential to find one that provides safety, comfort, and longevity. Many parents opt for convertible cribs that can grow with their child, transitioning from a crib to a toddler bed. This not only extends the life of the crib but also saves you from having to buy multiple beds.

When choosing a crib, safety should be the top priority. Look for cribs that meet the latest safety standards and proper slat spacing to prevent your baby from getting trapped. Additionally, ensure the crib mattress fits snugly with no gaps.

Our Moreland Moms highly recommend cribs like the Babyletto Hudson and Delta Children Emery 4-in-1, both of which are known for their durability and safety features. For a more budget-friendly option, the Graco Benton 4-in-1 Convertible Crib is also a popular choice.

No matter what you choose, make sure to also invest in a quality, firm mattress, as well as a fitted sheet that meets infant sleep safety guidelines.

Diaper Bags 

If you plan to go anywhere with your child, a diaper bag is necessary—it is when you aren’t prepared with one the worst outcomes happen. There are many style options, but one thing is consistent with diaper bags: they have plenty of storage spots. Backpacks allow you the option to have both hands free, but the bag isn’t accessible without taking it off. Messenger bags can give you access but can get heavy on one shoulder. There are compact purses and fanny pack styles for basic needs when you don’t want to bring a lot.  

Our moms agree with the internet's top choices and recommend Ju-Ju Be B.F.F. Diaper Bag and Skip Hop Backpacks.  

Doctors

Having a reliable and compassionate medical team for you and your baby will be just as important as any baby product you purchase. Ask friends and family for pediatrician recommendations and check if they are in your insurance network. 

Our Newborn Care Provider List has some great recommendations for doctors in the Waukesha area.  

And don’t forget about caring for yourself. The fourth trimester (12 weeks following birth) can be filled with changes to your body and your emotions. This is a time when healing, rest, and support are crucial for your well-being. Prioritizing your health and self-care during this period will help you recover and bond with your baby. 

Moreland OB-GYN is here to provide you with the best care and answer questions about your health while you navigate pregnancy and becoming a new mom.