From strollers and baby carriers to cribs and bibs, there are a lot of products soon-to-be parents can choose from when shopping or making their shower registry. And while it may be tempting to buy all of them—especially if you’re a first-time parent—it’s probably reassuring to learn that babies only need a few material things to thrive. In fact, you can save a considerable amount of money by purchasing only the essentials before their birth, and then buying the extras, like baby carriers, as you need them. 

What to Buy Before the Baby Comes 

1. A Breast Pump

If you’re planning on nursing, buy a breast pump well in advance so you have it ready and waiting as soon as you bring the baby home. If you’ll still be nursing after returning to work, look for a hands-free pump that expresses milk efficiently, or the bras that enable you to keep your hands free while pumping. If you’ll be staying home, on the other hand, a simple manual pump may be all you need to get the job done. If breastfeeding is going great, some women never even touch their electric pump until they go back to work, but some women rely on them when they are having early latch issues, or supply issues, so it’s a good idea to be prepared. A hand pump can be very good for middle-of-the-night engorgement relief when the baby only takes one side before falling back asleep, so it really doesn’t hurt to own both. Geneva Woods Birth Center’s boutique carries Medela and Lansinoh manual pumps and lots of other breastfeeding supplies, so pop in and load up to be prepared.

2. A Crib

Babies can outgrow bassinets fairly fast, so consider investing in a crib that meets all the most recent federal safety standards instead. You will also need a firm mattress and tight fitted sheet—but nothing else—for the baby’s first bed. You may also want a co-sleeper for nights, if baby will be sharing your bed, but even if you are bed-sharing in the night, a crib is a great place for baby to take naps.

3. A Newborn Car Seat 

While baby carriers and diaper bags might seem like essentials for taking the baby out, the single most important item you’ll need is a car seat—and you’ll need it from day one. Once you find the best model to meet your needs, read the instruction manual closely to ensure you install it correctly. It is not recommended to buy or accept a used car seat because you can’t really know what kind of impact it has absorbed, and how good its cushioning still is. Better to be safe than sorry. You can also get your free car seat safety checks at your local fire stations – call before going though, to make sure they have someone on hand to help you.

Whether you have questions about baby carriers or breast pumps, the friendly team at Geneva Woods Birth Center will be happy to answer them. Located in Anchorage, AK, this OB-GYN practice is proud to provide women with comprehensive care. Their services include family planning, birthing classes, postnatal care, lactation support, and well-woman exams. To learn more about their knowledgeable providers, visit their website. To make an appointment, call (907) 561-2626.