You really, really don't need everything.

I, like many others, got completely sucked in by all of the "oohs" and "ahs" when I was a FTM - I was completely convinced I needed all the gadgets and a beautiful nursery, and it actually turned into a HUGE stressor for me because I would feel like if I didn't have everything I saw the people around me using - that I wasn't really prepared, or that I wasn't doing enough for my baby... Well, I am here to report as a STM on the things I got that I regret, and would NOT use again!!

before I start this list, I would like to clarify that every baby (and family) is so different - what is absolutely useless to me, could be a lifesaver to you! I also think that "waste" has nothing to do with price ; it can also involve space, time, etc - these are the things that didn't work for my specific child ;

a bassinet, muslin / burp cloths, baby towels, bibs, shoes BEFORE baby started walking, bum spatula, a bouncer / jumper / or any other item like that, changing table, diaper genie, electric nail file, bulb type or electric booger sucker, bottle sterilizer, baby puree maker, any "baby box" or toy subscription, dream sock / owelette, wipe warmer, forehead style thermometer, and honestly.. in general MOST things you see on social media.

For most of these things we used alternatives, and some we just used non "baby specific" products - ex ; there is no difference between a normal (off brand) rectal thermometer and a "frida" brand thermometer besides the price!

All in all, my biggest recommendation (especially if you're someone who HATES clutter, like me) is to start off with the bare bones and only buy what you need! Every family and baby is SOOO different and they each have individual needs - so don't base what you need on what you see others have!! You are not any less of a parent because you don't have all the fancy gadgets, or a fully decorated nursery! You are simply doing what's best for you and your family!

ETA ; I was informed that my title could be seen in a way that I do not mean at all - I struggle with things like tone, and didn't realize it could be taken to mean "if I don't use it, you don't need it" I only meant that just because you see someone have something (for example those people with super luxurious nursery, or super expensive items) you don't need it to be a good parent! It's completely okay to use less expensive items, or substitute a "baby specific" product with a multiuse product (a good example was that I saw someone use receiving blankets as baby towels, which I will be trying out!) - ALSO ALSO, when I say I didn't use a bassinet I used a crib!! You should ABSOLUTELY have one of these before bringing baby home!!