What You Actually Need for a Baby

Baby gear editor Kalee Thompson shares her tried-and-true tips for what new parents really need for a newborn (and what to skip), the most helpful gifts for expecting parents, and the gear you can safely buy used.

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Products we recommend:

• Great baby bouncerBabyBjörn Bouncer Balance Soft ()

• Good laundry detergent for baby clothesTide Free & Gentle Liquid Laundry Detergent ()

• Car seats we recommendGraco SnugRide SnugFit 35 DLX () ; Chicco KeyFit 35 () ; Uppababy Aria () .

• A good lightweight strollerUppababy Minu V2 ()

• A polarizing bassinetSnoo Smart Sleeper ()

• Kalee lovesZojirushi Stainless Steel Mug ()

• Use this site to check for recalls on products you may be buying usedCPSC.gov ()

Additional reading:

• Gifts For New Moms ()

• Is the $1,700 Snoo Smart Sleeper Bassinet Worth It? What to Know Before You Buy. ()

• The 4 Best Infant Car Seats of 2025 ()

• The 6 Best Bassinets and Bedside Sleepers of 2025 ()

• The 5 Best FullSize Strollers of 2025 ()

• The 2 Best Travel Strollers of 2025 ()

• The Best Baby Carriers ()

• The 5 Best Baby Monitors of 2025 ()

• The 2 Best Diaper Pails of 2025 ()

We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› ()

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The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel.Engin...