As soon as you start telling people about your pregnancy, somebody is going to want to give you a baby shower. That is a wonderful way to support you on this journey.

There are a lot of fancy things you can buy or request from friends and family members for your baby, but here are the essentials we recommend:

  • A properly installed car seat. You won’t be able to leave the hospital without this.
  • Crib or other hard-surface sleeping space.
  • Newborn clothing, such as onesies, sleepers, and diapers.
  • Baby wipes and diaper rash cream, such as Desitin.
  • Fitted crib sheets and receiving blankets.
  • Laundry detergent that is gentle for newborn skin
  • Baby thermometer.
  • Baby bottles with nipples, a bottle brush, and breast pads and pump if breastfeeding.
  • A gift card to your favorite maternity clothing shop.
  • Gift cards to restaurants that deliver, for after the baby comes.