Top 10 Baby Must-Haves for the First 6 Months

Summary 

Looking for a clear list of baby must-haves? This guide breaks down the top essentials for the first six months, organized by category to help new parents shop and stock the nursery with confidence.

___________________________________________________________________________

Between the latest TikTok trends to that one blogger’s rave reviews, it can be tough to navigate all the baby gear out there. If everything’s labeled a “must-have,” then what’s actually worth investing in? When it’s time to create your registry, you might find yourself feeling overwhelmed instead of excited about your family’s new chapter. 

A helpful place to start is narrowing your focus to the items that will support you day to day. In the first few months, the most useful baby gear helps with sleep, feeding, and soothing, without adding extra decisions or stress to an already chaotic time. Read on to learn more about baby must-haves you’ll need for your child’s first six months.

Table of contents

1. What “Must-Have” Really Means for the First Six Months
2. Key Baby Essentials to Have on Hand
3. Key Takeaways
4. FAQs
5. References 

What “Must-Have” Really Means for the First Six Months

In the first six months, “must-have” doesn’t mean having everything — it means having the right things. The most helpful baby gear supports daily routines like sleep, feeding, and soothing, without adding unnecessary complexity or overwhelm (especially when you’re already sleep-deprived). Rather than “nice-to-haves” you can always add to your rotation later, this list focuses on the survival essentials parents reach for again and again during the newborn and early infant stage. 

Key Baby Essentials to Have on Hand 

Every family has different priorities, but some baby needs are universal. Whether you’re creating a registry for the first time or beginning the nesting phase in the third trimester, make sure you’re all set with these 10 newborn essentials.

Baby Sleep Must-Haves

1. Safe Sleep Space

A dedicated, safe sleep surface is essential from baby’s first night at home. Depending on your space and budget, you may choose to invest in a bassinet, crib, or both. Many families start with a bassinet to keep baby close in the early months, then transition to a crib as baby grows. Look for a sleep surface with a firm, flat mattress that meets current safety standards.No matter where your baby sleeps, keep the space clear of blankets and toys for safety.

2. Hatch Baby Sound Machine and Sleep Support

Baby’s first few months at home involve a lot of soothing. With soft lights and comforting audio — think Heartbeat Sounds and familiar lullabies — Hatch Baby has everything you need to help baby regulate. As they grow, you can start setting up light and sound routines that support healthy, consistent sleep habits. The best part? For the first six months after your purchase, you’ll get built-in expert sleep support from Hatch Sleep Consultants. 

3. Swaddles or Sleep Sacks

In the early weeks, a snug swaddle can help babies feel more secure and settled. Once your baby shows signs of rolling or begins to break out of the swaddle, it’s time to transition to a sleep sack for safe sleep. Keep it simple if you can — having two or three swaddles or sleep sacks in rotation (and options for different seasons) is usually enough.

Baby Feeding Must-Haves

4. Bottles

Even if you plan to breastfeed, bottles are still a must-have in the early months. Having them on hand offers flexibility, whether that means a partner helping with feeds, pumping and storing milk, or supplementing when needed. To start, try a small variety of bottles rather than committing to a full set, since babies can have strong preferences for different shapes and nipples.

5. Feeding Support Essentials

When it comes to feeding accessories, less is usually more. You’ll likely use burp cloths and a few soft bibs daily in the first few months, especially during feedings and after spit-ups. Skip the fancy gadgets and focus on simple, washable basics that make everyday feeding easier without adding clutter.

Baby Travel Must-Haves

6. Infant Car Seat

A car seat is non-negotiable from day one (you’ll need one to bring baby home from the hospital). Many families choose an infant car seat for the first several months because it makes early outings easier, allowing you to move baby from your vehicle to a stroller without waking them. Be sure to have your car seat properly installed before your due date, and consider compatibility with your stroller system if you want to use both.

7. Stroller or Baby Carrier

For the first six months, a stroller or baby carrier can make daily life easier, but the right choice depends on your routine. Strollers are great for longer walks, errands, and outings, while baby carriers are ideal for hands-free movement and quick trips. Focus on what fits your daily life rather than trends. Many families find one reliable option is all they need early on.

Baby Wellness Must-Haves

8. Diapering Essentials

Diapering doesn’t have to be complicated. Diapers, wipes, and a safe, easy-to-clean changing surface are all you need, especially early on. Skip the extras and focus on simple storage that keeps supplies within arm’s reach during sleepy middle-of-the-night changes.

9. Baby Health Basics

A few basic health items can make your life a lot easier, especially when baby’s fussy at midnight. Having a reliable thermometer, a nasal aspirator, and infant nail care tools on hand can help you quickly address common baby needs without a late-night store run. Keep your kit simple so you feel prepared, not overwhelmed. 

10. Comfort Items for Daily Soothing

Newborns and young infants rely on external cues for soothing, and a few simple tools can go a long way. Pacifiers, soft blankets, and a simple rocker or gliding chair can help baby feel calm and regulated during fussy moments.

Key Takeaways

• With all the baby items on the market, deciding what to bring into your home can be stressful. 
• Every family is different, but some baby essentials are important across the board, especially during baby’s first few months.
• Hatch Baby, your go-to for baby sleep support, can help you take care of the whole family when it comes to healthy sleep habits.. 

Good sleep is the foundation of wellness. Learn how Hatch Baby can support your entire family’s well-being from baby’s very first night.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need all of these baby must-haves before my baby arrives?

Not necessarily. While items like a car seat and safe sleep space are essential from day one, many parents choose to add other must-haves gradually as they learn their baby’s needs. Starting with the basics can help prevent overwhelm and help you make investments you’ll actually use later on.

How many baby products do I really need for the first six months?

Fewer than you might think. Most parents rely on a small set of essentials used daily, especially for sleep, feeding, and diapering. Prioritizing quality over quantity can make routines easier and more manageable during the newborn phase.

What baby items can wait until after the first six months?

Items designed for sitting, solid foods, or active play — like high chairs, activity centers, and larger toys — are usually better added later. The first six months are primarily about comfort, safety, and establishing routines.

References

1. Mindell, J. A., Sadeh, A., Wiegand, B., How, T. H., & Goh, D. Y. T. (2009). A nightly bedtime routine: Impact on sleep in young children and maternal mood. Sleep, 32(5), 599–606. https://doi.org/10.1093/sleep/32.5.599 (PMCID: PMC2675894)
2. Mindell, J. A., Li, A. M., Sadeh, A., Kwon, R., & Goh, D. Y. T. (2015). Bedtime routines for young children: A dose-dependent association with sleep outcomes. Sleep, 38(5), 717–722. https://doi.org/10.5665/4662 (PMCID: PMC4402657)
3. Moon, R. Y. (2025, June 6). How to keep your sleeping baby safe: AAP policy explained. American Academy of Pediatrics. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/sleep/Pages/a-parents-guide-to-safe-sleep.aspx