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Becoming a new parent is an exhilarating, overwhelming, monumental experience. For many, that path is accompanied by new hurdles, sleepless nights, and plenty of on-the-fly education. Yet amid that chaos, new parents realize quickly What Do New Parents Say They Can’t Live Without certain essentials.
While there are some must-have baby gear tools to make your life easier, the items have become the lifelines to good (and semi-cheerful) parenting in the early stages of life. Here are the products new parents say they couldn’t live without, and more insight helps smooth things over in this life-changing season.
Why Must-Have Items Matter for New Parents
The world of baby products can seem an overwhelming — and costly — endeavor, particularly for first-time parents. The choices seem endless. Am I buying too much? What if I don’t buy enough? Must-haves make this process easier and , in turn, save you time and money on essentials that can ease your life. These products have been tested, loved, and relied on by fellow parents through the whirlwind of sleepless nights, diaper changes, and bonding moments.
The Essentials Every New Parent Can’t Live Without
Below, we’ve compiled a list of products that new parents consistently say are their lifesavers. These items don’t just provide convenience; they create peace of mind, comfort, and support during those early days of parenthood. Here are the top items parents consistently say they couldn’t live without.
A Quality Baby Monitor
It’s not unusual for new parents to constantly check on their little ones to see whether they’re still breathing. Enter the baby monitor — a device every parent wishes they had sooner.
These days, baby monitors do more than do audio and video. Many of these now come with bells and whistles, such as real-time notifications, temperature sensors, and heart rate monitors. The Owlet Dream Duo or Nanit Pro are great options for parents wanting added peace of mind.
Why parents love it:
- It reduces the number of times they need to tiptoe into the nursery.
- Advanced monitors provide insights into baby’s sleeping patterns, which are helpful for establishing routines.
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Owlet® Dream Duo Smart Baby Monitor
Key Features
- FDA-cleared smart baby monitor.
- Tracks baby’s pulse rate and oxygen levels.
- Monitors sleep patterns and wakings in real-time.
- Sends notifications if health readings fall outside preset ranges.
- Includes 12 hours of free video clip storage (upgrade to 14 days with Owlet360).
- 7-day battery life.
- Built-in temperature sensor for room monitoring.
- Night vision for monitoring in the dark.
A Comfortable Baby Carrier
Babywearing is not only practical; it’s also wonderful for attachments. A baby carrier ensures your hands stay free while your baby stays snug and secure while you walk or do chores.
Recommended products include the Ergobaby Omni 360 or the KeaBabies, which are ergonomically designed for parents and babies alike, making them a winner in the crowd.
Why parents love it:
- It allows multitasking while keeping the baby close.
- Helps soothe fussy babies with motion and warmth.
Ergobaby Omni Classic (formerly OMNI 360)
Key Features
- Grows with baby from newborn to toddler (0-48 months, 7-45lbs).
- Multiple carry positions: inward, outward, hip, and back carry.
- Made from 100% premium cotton for soft and cozy comfort.
- Padded lumbar support waist belt for lower back comfort.
- Extra padded shoulder straps for added support.
- Adjustable shoulder straps (regular or crossed).
- Large removable storage pouch for on-the-go essentials.
- UPF 50+ baby hood for sun protection and privacy during breastfeeding.
- Adjustable fit for various body types, from petite to larger frames.
A Reliable Breast Pump
For breastfeeding parents, an excellent breast pump can be a lifesaver. And even if breastfeeding isn’t your path, equipment like bottle warmers or formula dispensers can help babies digest formula more easily. Some choices within this category are Spectra breast pumps or Momcozy breast pumps.
Why parents love it:
- Makes feeding on the go manageable.
- Allows partners or family members to assist with feeds, offering the primary parent a well-deserved break.
Spectra S1 Plus Rechargeable Breast Pump
Key Features
- Natural Nursing Technology mimics natural breastfeeding suction.
- Portable and rechargeable, perfect for on-the-go moms.
- It can be used as a single or double electric breast pump.
- Compatible with authentic Spectra Baby accessories for best results.
- Convenient grey breast pump tote for easy carrying.
- 28mm flange diameter for comfortable pumping.
- Powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery (included).
- Lightweight and easy to transport, it is ideal for travel.
A Sturdy Stroller and Car Seat System
Whether you like it or not, investing in a travel system that is reliable and versatile enough to grow with your child is something that you can’t do without. Don’t miss out on combo options with baby car seats and compatible strollers, for example, the Ingenuity 3D Mini Convenience Stroller, UPPAbaby Vista V2, or Evenflo Pivot Modular Travel System.
Why parents love it:
- Makes outings seamless without waking a sleeping baby.
- Many come with extra storage for bags, bottles, and more.
Ingenuity 3D Mini Convenience Stroller
Key Features
- Lightweight (11 pounds) with a durable alloy steel frame.
- Folds compactly for easy storage and travel with the auto-lock feature.
- Full-sized seat with multi-position recline for comfort.
- Retractable canopy with flip-out sun visor for sun protection.
- 5-point harness with adjustable shoulder straps for safety.
- Anti-shock front wheels for a smooth ride and easy maneuverability.
- Lockable rear wheels for added security when stationary.
- Convenient parent features include 2 cup holders and a rear storage pocket.
- Large, easy-access storage basket for carrying essentials.
- Suitable for children 6 months up to 45 pounds.
Evenflo Pivot Modular Travel System
Key Features
- Modular travel system with 6 modes of use.
- Allows the baby to face in or out or convert from car seat to stroller or carriage mode.
- LiteMax Infant Car Seat has a stay-in-car base and belt lock-off system for secure installation.
- The anti-rebound bar was tested for extra stability and side impact for safety.
- Maximum weight capacity: 50 lbs for toddler seat and 35 lbs for car seat.
- Includes a parent cup holder and child snack tray.
- 5-point harness with adjustable straps for safety.
- Suitable for children up to 38 inches in height.
A White Noise Machine
Sleep is too valuable—for babies and parents alike. Constant background noise mimics the womb environment. Did you know? Devices like The Hatch Rest white noise machine can lull your baby into a longer, deeper sleep.
Why parents love it:
- Helps mask household noise (pets, doorbells, or older siblings).
- It improves consistent sleep patterns over time.
Hatch Rest Baby Sound Machine
Key Features
- Customizable light and sound combinations to suit your child’s needs.
- Built-in time-to-rise alarm clock to signal when it’s okay to get up.
- Wi-Fi is enabled for remote control via the app.
- It can be controlled via smartphone for easy adjustments.
- Includes access to Hatch for additional music, stories, and sleep aids (subscription sold separately).
- Portable and easy to set up with a plug-in power source.
- Compact design fits in any nursery or toddler room.
A Portable Diaper Changing Station
Diaper duty is unavoidable but doesn’t need to be complicated. Portable changing stations or diaper caddies filled with wipes, creams, and extra clothes make life much easier, especially in multi-story homes.
Why parents love it:
- Quick and convenient. No more running to the nursery for every change.
- Ideal for keeping essential supplies organized.
Kopi Baby Portable Diaper Changing Pad
Key Features
- Portable, waterproof changing pad for diaper changes on the go.
- Velcro straps and buckle loop for easy attachment to strollers, bags, or wrists.
- Smart wipes pocket for quick access to baby wipes.
- Two inner mesh pockets for baby essentials (diapers, rash cream, toys).
- Outer pocket for storing mom’s or dad’s personal items.
- Detachable storage space for convenience when just using the changing pad.
- Lightweight and compact, easily fits in most diaper bags.
- Machine washable for hassle-free cleaning.
- PEVA inner lining for waterproof protection.
- Multi-purpose handle and buckle for different carrying options.
- Zipped front pocket for storing keys, phone, and other essentials.
Pajamas with Zippers (Not Snaps!)
Ask any parent who has ever worked through a late-night diaper change, and they’ll probably let out a groan about snap-on pajamas. Zippered onesies are a genius and make life easier during those 3 a.m. tear sessions. Soft, high-quality options are available from brands like Kickee Pants, Kyte Baby, or Burt’s Bees Baby.
Why parents love it:
- Saves time and frustration during already tricky moments.
- Comfortable for babies and easy to take on/off.
KYTE BABY Unisex Rayon Sleeping Bag
Key Features
- Exterior: 97% Rayon Made From Bamboo, 3% Spandex
- Filling: 100% Polyester
- Highly breathable
- J-shaped double zipper
Pacifiers and Teethers
When it comes to settling a fussy baby, most parents swear by pacifiers. The Philips Avent Soothie, frequently used in hospitals, also continues to be a popular pick. For teething, babies (and parents) adore items such as Sophie the Giraffe.
RELATED: Rubber vs Silicone Pacifier: Update Reviews 2025
Baby Bottles
A good baby bottle is essential whether you’re breastfeeding or formula feeding. Pick BPA-free bottles, and look for anti-colic features to minimize gas and fussiness.
Popular options include:
- Wide-neck bottles for easy cleaning.
- Colic-reducing bottles to prevent discomfort.
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Dr. Brown’s Anti-Colic Baby Bottle
Key Features
- Anti-colic internal vent system reduces colic, spit-up, burping, and gas.
- Vacuum-free feeding mimics breastfeeding for a more natural experience.
- Consistent flow rate with Dr. Brown’s silicone nipples for a comfortable pace.
- Preserves milk nutrients and aids in digestion for better sleep.
- Breast-like nipple shape supports a proper latch and eases the breast-to-bottle transition.
- Bottle can be used with or without the internal vent system as the baby grows.
- It has a reusable design and is suitable for all baby feeding stages.
- BPA-free and safe for dishwasher (top rack), electric and microwave sterilizers, or boiling water.
- Collaboration with Plastic Bank to reduce ocean plastic and support sustainability.
- Includes four 8oz bottles with vented nipples.
Building Your Own “Can’t Live Without” List
Now, we understand that every baby and every family is unique. What is effective for one household might not work for another. But the essentials we’ve discussed can help guide you in building your must-have list.
If you’re not sure, ask trusted parents for recommendations or even try before you buy whenever you can. For many parents, the process of discovery that comes with creating a setup that works perfectly in their lives is part of the fun.
FAQs (What Do New Parents Say They Can’t Live Without?)
New parents need support, sleep, baby essentials, time, guidance, and emotional resilience during their transition into parenthood.
New parents miss sleep, personal time, freedom, spontaneity, and a sense of normalcy before their baby arrives.
People often say, “Enjoy every moment,” “Sleep when the baby sleeps,” and “It gets easier with time.”
Best advice: “Trust your instincts, ask for help, don’t stress over perfection, and cherish the small moments.”
New parents feel overwhelmed, excited, exhausted, anxious, joyful, and constantly adjusting to the challenges and responsibilities of parenthood.
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