Getting ready for a baby often feels like a consumer avalanche. The truth is, babies need very little beyond safety, warmth, food, and love. Given your 'value' gear budget and spacious apartment, we'll focus on smart buys: prioritizing multi-use items, checking for used options (where safe), and knowing what's truly essential versus what's just clever marketing. You've got this.

Item	Qty	Notes
True Needs - Before the Due Date
Car Seat (Infant or Convertible)	1	This is non-negotiable for leaving the hospital. An infant car seat is great for newborns, but a convertible car seat (rear-facing then forward-facing) offers better long-term value. Always check the expiration date and never buy used if you don't know its full crash history.
Safe Sleep Space (Bassinet or Pack-n-Play)	1	For the first 6 months, your baby should sleep in your room, ideally within arm's reach. A bassinet is perfect for this, or a Pack-n-Play can serve as both a sleep space and playpen later.
Diapers	1 pack Newborn, 1-2 packs Size 1	Babies grow incredibly fast. Don't overbuy any one size. A small starting stock is plenty, then you can buy as needed.
Wipes (unscented)	2-3 packs	Buy unscented for sensitive baby skin.
Basic Sleepers/Onesies	5-7 (Newborn/0-3m)	Focus on simple, soft, easy-to-change options. Many babies outgrow newborn size very quickly.
Swaddles	3-4	Helps newborns feel secure and sleep soundly. Try different types to see what works best.
Burp Cloths	6-8	You will use these constantly for spit-up and general messes.
Baby Thermometer	1	Essential for monitoring baby's temperature. Add 'how to take baby's temperature' to your list of questions for the pediatrician.
Nail Clippers/File	1 set	Baby nails are tiny but sharp! Essential for preventing scratches.
Feeding Essentials (Bottles)	4-6 small bottles	If you plan to supplement or bottle-feed, start with a few small bottles. If planning to pump, check with your insurer about pump coverage, or consider renting a hospital-grade pump initially.
Needs - But Can Wait Until After
Crib and Mattress	1	Once baby outgrows the bassinet (around 6 months), a full-size crib is the next step. Look for convertible cribs that adapt to a toddler bed for more value. Always buy a new crib mattress for safety and hygiene.
Stroller	1	Think about your lifestyle. A travel system (car seat snaps into stroller) is convenient at first. Later, you might prefer a lightweight or a more robust stroller depending on your walking habits.
Baby Carrier/Wrap	1-2	Great for keeping baby close and your hands free. Try a few styles from friends or stores to find what's comfortable for both of you.
Play Mat/Gym	1	Simple options are perfect for tummy time and visual stimulation. No need for anything overly complex or expensive.
Bouncer or Rocker	1	A safe place to set baby down for short periods. Again, basic models work perfectly well.
Baby Bathtub	1	Makes bath time easier and safer. A simple plastic tub or a sink insert is very practical.
Baby Monitor	1	With a large apartment, this helps you hear or see baby when you're in another room. Basic audio monitors are often sufficient and more affordable.
Nice-to-Haves
Diaper Pail	1	Helps contain odors, but a regular trash can with a good lid (and frequent emptying) can work just as well.
Baby Swing	1	Some babies absolutely love the motion and it can be a lifesaver for fussy moments. Others don't care for them at all. Consider borrowing one first.
Nursing Pillow	1	Can provide comfort and support during feeding, but many parents find regular pillows do the trick.
Skip or Borrow
Bottle Warmer		A mug of warm tap water or a bowl of hot water works just as quickly and effectively to warm bottles.
Changing Table		Save space and money. A changing pad placed on top of a sturdy dresser, bed, or even the floor works perfectly well.
Wipe Warmer		Most babies don't mind cool wipes, and it's one less electrical item taking up space and energy. Not a necessity.
Excessive Newborn Clothes		Babies grow so fast! They'll likely only be in newborn sizes for a few weeks, if at all. Focus on 0-3 month sizes and beyond.
Specialized Baby Shoes		Until they're actually walking, babies only need socks or soft booties to keep their feet warm. Hard-soled shoes are unnecessary.

Your Readiness, Measured