Look for seats that are easy to install, have high safety ratings from NHTSA (4+ stars), and fit your car properly. Avoid used car seats unless you know their complete history.

Choose cribs that meet current CPSC safety standards with slats no more than 2⅜ inches apart. Convertible models grow with your child.

Choose a firm mattress that fits snugly in the crib with no gaps. Breathable and washable mattresses offer additional safety and convenience.

Choose sleep sacks in multiple sizes and tog ratings for different seasons. Look for easy diaper change access and breathable fabrics.

Choose chairs that grow with your child, have easy-to-clean surfaces, and stable construction. 6-in-1 models offer the best value.

Look for bottles with anti-colic systems, easy-to-clean designs, and multiple nipple flow options. Glass or BPA-free plastic are both safe choices.

Choose systems with easy fold mechanisms, good maneuverability, and ample storage. Ensure car seat compatibility with your chosen infant seat.

Stock up on newborn and size 1, but don't over-buy as babies grow quickly. Look for hypoallergenic materials and good absorption.

Choose wipes with 99% water content and minimal chemicals. Fragrance-free options are best for sensitive skin.

Buy a mix of sizes as babies grow fast. Look for soft fabrics, easy snap access, and machine-washable materials.

Choose large, breathable muslin blankets that soften with washing. Multiple blankets allow for washing rotation.

Choose thick, absorbent materials that get softer with washing. You'll need many of these - buy in bulk.

Look for tubs with newborn slings, non-slip surfaces, and temperature indicators. 4-in-1 designs offer the best value.

Choose organic cotton towels with large hoods to keep baby warm after baths. Look for extra absorbent and quick-drying materials.

Choose toys made from natural rubber or food-grade silicone. Multiple textures and the ability to refrigerate provide better relief.

Look for seats that are easy to install, have high safety ratings from NHTSA (4+ stars), and fit your car properly. Avoid used car seats unless you know their complete history.

Choose a 4-in-1 model that converts from rear-facing to forward-facing to booster. Look for extended rear-facing capability (up to 40+ lbs) for maximum safety.

Choose monitors with clear night vision, two-way audio, and reliable connection. Smart monitors with sleep tracking are helpful but not essential.

Get pressure-mounted gates for doorways and hardware-mounted gates for stairs. Look for one-hand operation and auto-close features.

Choose cribs that meet current CPSC safety standards with slats no more than 2⅜ inches apart. Convertible models grow with your child.

Choose a firm mattress that fits snugly in the crib with no gaps. Breathable and washable mattresses offer additional safety and convenience.

Look for bassinets with height adjustment, swivel capabilities, and breathable mesh sides. Bedside sleepers make breastfeeding easier.

Choose sleep sacks in multiple sizes and tog ratings for different seasons. Look for easy diaper change access and breathable fabrics.

Look for machines with multiple sound options, timer settings, and volume control. Continuous play capability is important for all-night use.

Choose chairs that grow with your child, have easy-to-clean surfaces, and stable construction. 6-in-1 models offer the best value.

Look for bottles with anti-colic systems, easy-to-clean designs, and multiple nipple flow options. Glass or BPA-free plastic are both safe choices.

Choose warmers with precise temperature control and timer functions. Steam warmers heat more evenly than water bath models.

Hospital-grade pumps offer the best performance. Look for closed-system pumps to prevent contamination and multiple flange sizes.

Choose pillows with firm support that maintain their shape. Look for removable, washable covers and versatile positioning options.

Choose systems with easy fold mechanisms, good maneuverability, and ample storage. Ensure car seat compatibility with your chosen infant seat.

Look for ergonomic carriers that support baby's hips and spine properly. Multiple carrying positions and breathable materials increase comfort.

Choose strollers under 15 lbs with compact folds and good sun protection. Look for reclining seats and storage space.

Stock up on newborn and size 1, but don't over-buy as babies grow quickly. Look for hypoallergenic materials and good absorption.

Choose wipes with 99% water content and minimal chemicals. Fragrance-free options are best for sensitive skin.

Buy a mix of sizes as babies grow fast. Look for soft fabrics, easy snap access, and machine-washable materials.

Choose large, breathable muslin blankets that soften with washing. Multiple blankets allow for washing rotation.

Choose thick, absorbent materials that get softer with washing. You'll need many of these - buy in bulk.

Look for tubs with newborn slings, non-slip surfaces, and temperature indicators. 4-in-1 designs offer the best value.

Choose tables with safety rails, ample storage, and sturdy construction. Some cribs convert to include changing areas.

Choose systems that use regular trash bags to save money, or specialized systems for maximum odor control.

Choose organic cotton towels with large hoods to keep baby warm after baths. Look for extra absorbent and quick-drying materials.

Look for mats with detachable toys, music features, and machine-washable materials. Piano gyms add musical engagement.

Choose swings with multiple speeds, music options, and easy-to-clean fabrics. Compact designs work better in smaller spaces.

Choose toys made from natural rubber or food-grade silicone. Multiple textures and the ability to refrigerate provide better relief.

Steam-and-blend models offer convenience for making homemade baby food. Glass containers are preferred over plastic.

Self-emptying models reduce maintenance. Look for smart mapping and scheduling features for maximum convenience.

High-tech swings offer multiple motion patterns and smartphone control. Consider if the premium features justify the higher cost.