My newborn must haves list, from ten years as a baby nurse.

Why Arlene likes it

The glass bottles feel very firm in my hands and they do not cling to milk scents. Their wide necks make them easy to clean. Mothers tell me that their newborns switch easily back and forth between breast and this bottle with little fuss.

Why Arlene likes it

When the baby is ready to move up a flow, these fit the Pigeon wide-neck bottles. They're soft and flexible, and the little line on the nipple shows me where the baby's lips should land for a good latch.

Why Arlene likes it

I pre-measure up to three bottles of powdered formula in this before we head out. It turns into a snack cup later on, and it goes in the dishwasher. Close the lid carefully, since some parents say it can spill if it isn't snapped shut.

Why Arlene likes it

This machine mixes a warm bottle quickly with just a push of a button for babies who are fed with formula. You have control over the amount of ounces and temperature, which is really useful if you're trying to get a baby who is hungry and very upset at 2 AM during a time when everyone else is sleepy too.

Why Arlene likes it

I like to have a spare funnel because Formula Pro funnels need cleaning after using a few bottles. While one is drying, I put the clean one right back into use so we don't have to wait for long. It's just a small thing but it makes a big difference.

Why Arlene likes it

Each feeding ends with spitting up and burping. These muslin cloths I use are large enough to drape over my entire shoulder and they're thick so that milk won't soak through them. After washing they become softer and retain their colors well.

Why Arlene likes it

Milk leaves behind an oily residue that regular soap misses; Dapple cuts through that residue and gets things really clean without any scent, so the bottle doesn't get that soapy smell afterwards. Using the pump top is also very convenient with just one wet hand.

Why Arlene likes it

This one washes, sterilizes and dries bottles and pump parts in one cycle. Parents say it saves them a good chunk of time every night, and that matters most in the first weeks, when you need every free minute for sleep.

Why Arlene likes it

These are designed for use with Momcozy machines. Just put one tablet in and run the cycle. There's no need to measure or fuss with things on the countertop either. A box of 120 tablets lasts quite a while, and after washing they don't leave that distinct smell of milk around anymore.

Why Arlene likes it

Another washer I like, and it handles bottles, nipples and the small pieces too. It washes, sterilizes and dries in one go, so the parts are ready for the next feed without anybody standing at the sink.

Why Arlene likes it

These fragrance-free tablets go with the Brezza washer, and the listing says they work in other bottle washers as well. They get milk out of the little nooks in pump parts that are hard to reach by hand.

Why Arlene likes it

When a family travels, this small rack and brush come along. It tucks into a bag, fits in a hotel sink, and the raised ridges keep bottles out of the water that drips down while they dry.

Why Arlene likes it

Some babies really don't like having their arms held down. Swaddle Up does the opposite: it keeps arms up by the face and has a two way zipper so I can change diapers at night without completely opening up the swaddle. Check the sizing chart because some parents think it's a bit tight.

Why Arlene likes it

These are big enough at 38 by 40 inches to swaddle properly. They're thin and very breathable and retain their softness after washing multiple times. I also use them as covers for strollers or nursing coverings as well.

Why Arlene likes it

Jersey knit swaddles have a slight stretch that makes them snug but not tight. They are lightweight and soft against baby skin and work well in size, measuring 33 x 44 inches. Parents also really like the nice colors.

Why Arlene likes it

My favorites are gowns for the first few weeks: they have stretch at the bottom instead of snaps so changing diapers during the night takes just seconds. They are made of soft cotton and stand up well to lots of washes. Sometimes they fit a bit big though.

Why Arlene likes it

A knotted gown opens with one pull for a quick change, then you tie it again. The fabric is soft and breathable, and fold-over mittens cover tiny hands. The matching hat makes them a sweet coming-home outfit.

Why Arlene likes it

This tub starts with a soft mesh sling for a newborn and changes as the baby grows into a sitter, then a toddler. The sling can go in the washing machine, and the drain plug and hook make cleanup simple.

Why Arlene likes it

Another tub I like for the newborn stage. The mesh sling holds a tiny baby at a good angle and comes out once the baby can sit. It hangs on the shower head to dry, which helps in a small New York bathroom.

Why Arlene likes it

For the first few weeks, you'll want a soft baby bath that's easy to use. It cradles a new baby snugly in soft terrycloth material with a cushioned tail behind the baby's head and fits most sinks. The mesh bottom dries quickly and drains easily too.

Why Arlene likes it

Bath time is easier on the person doing it, too. This set comes with a padded kneeler and elbow rest so I'm comfortable leaning over the tub, plus a spout cover and a rinser. Parents say the arm rest can slide.

Why Arlene likes it

It takes practice to rinse your baby's hair without water splashing into their eyes. The cup has gentle rain mode as well as a stronger pour and its handle feels comfortable even when I have soapy hands on them.

Why Arlene likes it

The brush has soft bristles that feel nice against a baby's scalp and the comb is great for dealing with fine newborn hair. Rubber handles won't slip if you've just washed your hands.

Why Arlene likes it

I keep this on the changing table. It's a fragrance-free skin protectant, and a thin layer at diaper changes keeps the wet off tender skin. Parents use it on dry patches too. Ask your pediatrician about any rash.

Why Arlene likes it

Swaddlers are soft, absorbent and fragrance free, and they hold up well overnight. I like to have the next size ready before it's needed, because babies grow out of newborn diapers faster than most parents expect.

Why Arlene likes it

This starter kit includes diapers for newborns and size one along with four packs of wipes. These wipes are very thick and are ninety nine percent water. This is a nice way to try out Coterie products before buying lots, and they would also make nice gifts at a baby shower.

Why Arlene likes it

Thick, large and unscented, these wipes clean a messy diaper with fewer of them. They're made with 99% water and plant-based fibers, and parents with sensitive little ones like that they're gentle.

Why Arlene likes it

A big box of fragrance-free wipes that don't tear in the middle of a change. They stay moist in the flip-top pack, and they come in handy for sticky hands and spills all over the house.

Why Arlene likes it

A wearable pump allows mommies to use the pump while they eat, rest, or hold their babies. It also warms gently and includes a charging case; moms report that this pump outputs very close to wall pumps. Fit varies though, so please check the sizing guide too.

Why Arlene likes it

This bra holds the flanges in place so both hands are free while she pumps, and the clips drop down for nursing. It's soft cotton for all-day wear. Moms say it runs large, so check the size chart first.

Why Arlene likes it

A stretchy wrap keeps a newborn close and calm against your chest while your hands are free. Boba's cotton is made to hold its shape. Practice the wrap a few times before the baby arrives, and keep the face visible. It can feel warm in summer.

Why Arlene likes it

This bouncer moves smoothly as the baby moves; it has no batteries or motor at all. It is very lightweight and easy to carry between different rooms too. The material easily peels off and gets clean in the wash. Parents can take a shower or have a snack while keeping an eye on their baby.

Why Arlene likes it

There's a great play gym that you can configure differently as your baby grows. From when they start just lying on their tummies through to reaching and batting at things. Included in this set is a guide that gives ideas for different activities at each developmental stage. Parents really appreciate having this guide.

Why Arlene likes it

When babies are very young they focus better on bold black and white designs compared to softer colors. When I place this soft fold out book down for tummy time, they spend more time looking at it. Pages that crinkle are also very engaging for them to hold.

Why Arlene likes it

A soft caterpillar with a rattle, crinkle paper, a music button and a different texture on each section. I curl it in front of the baby during tummy time, and the colors and sounds hold their attention.

Why Arlene likes it

Babies like to find their own hands and feet. Soft rattles fit snugly on wrists and ankles; each kick produces a sound and bright colors attract baby's attention. They also work well as a lovely shower gift.

Why Arlene likes it

This is a simple first toy that little hands can pick up from all sides. Lightweight and bright, it is easy to clean and compact enough to fit in a diaper bag. Parents have bought this ball for over twenty-five years; I understand why they keep buying it.

Why Arlene likes it

Baby spit up, formula spills, and diaper blowouts all go into the laundry and I handle that as part of my job. Spraying quickly before washing lifts most of the stains, including those stubborn ones. First test it on dark clothing.

Why Arlene likes it

Tiny baby clothes slide right off hangers into the closet. Velvet clips keep things tidy by holding these items onto velvet hangers. To avoid marks or scuffs, carefully remove the clip from the hanger and clip again rather than sliding the clip along.