Second Baby Must Haves
Are you trying to work out all your second baby must haves for your second baby registry or checklist?
Then let us help you put together your second baby essentials checklist with our ultimate checklist for second baby!
Baby number two is on the way; adding to your family is exciting, but it also feels intimidating. Now, you have an older child to juggle along with a baby, and having all the right second baby must-haves becomes even more important.
Getting prepared for the arrival of your new baby is important. You need to feel ready to tackle this new stage of motherhood, and being equipped with all of the essentials makes you feel better.
You may or may not create a second baby registry. Nowadays, it’s more acceptable to have a second baby shower or a baby sprinkle that isn’t as large as your first shower. Friends and family bring gifts to celebrate the upcoming new life, but if you decide not to have a shower, preparing a checklist lets you know what you should get ahead of time.
If you stored all of your baby items from your first baby, you may not need a lot of items for your second baby. However, there are always a few big-ticket items and some small items that need to be restocked.
Let’s look at some of the 2nd baby must-haves you need to get before your baby arrives.
And if you love this guide on must have items for second baby, make sure to check out our guides on minimalist baby registry, best gifts for second baby, and baby items starting with a to z checklist.
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Creating your checklist for second baby
So, before we dive into the must haves for a second baby, there are a few things that you need to consider. Especially as each person’s needs will vary depending on your unique circumstances.
Here are some factors to consider:
Age Difference
Depending on the age gap between your two babies you may require purchasing duplicates of items if they are still in use with your first baby. This is mostly relevant if your babies are very close in age. Items may include cribs, pack and plays, baby monitors, and strollers.
The age gap is also a consideration if there is a larger gap between your two children. Did you keep the baby items used for your first child? Are they still safe to reuse (always check for recalls) or are they past their expiration date.
Gender
Is your second baby the same gender as your first? Or are they different genders?
This may impact your need for baby clothes and other baby items.
Season
Often baby essentials will be impacted by seasons and climate. For example, if your first baby is born in summer you will be less likely to need a lot of warm baby clothes and sleeping gear opposed to if you baby was born in winter.
Where you live is also a factor to consider in terms of climate and weather. Winter in Florida is not the same as a winter in Chicago.
So, depending on where you live and the season your baby is born you may need to look at additional items like these winter baby must haves and best strollers for snow!
List of 28 Second Baby Must Haves
1. A Larger Diaper Bag
Look at the diaper bag you have for your first child. Is it still in good condition? Is it large enough to carry items for two kids?
Chances are you need a new diaper bag, and parents with multiple kids love diaper bag backpacks. They allow you to be hands-free, which is helpful when juggling a new baby and an escaping toddler.
A diaper bag backpack offers plenty of space for all the diapers, pull-ups, wipes, and extra clothes a parent of two needs to carry with them.
Mancro Store Large Diaper Bag Backpack has the one thing you need the most when you have multiple children and that is storage.
At 15 inches x 10.8 inches x 4.9 inches it is large enough to fit all of the supplies you need but not so huge that it'll be awkward on your back.
And did we mention pockets!! It comes with 13 pockets, two large thermal-insulated pockets, and a diaper wipes pocket dispenser.
Not only is is functional, but it also ideal for both women and men!
Other reasons they are our top pick include:
- Padded straps for extra comfort
- Sturdy stroller clips for when you don't want to wear it
- They only zippers and magnetic lockets (no Velcro)
- It's waterproof
- And importantly it is machine washable
2. Diapers
Diapers are a must-have on your second baby registry list. If you used cloth diapers with your first baby, you may only need to get a few more since it’s easy to pass down cloth diapers. That’s one of their perks.
Don’t register for too many newborn diapers; if you receive a lot, return them to get gift cards or cash back from the store. It’s impossible to know how big your baby is at birth, and many families skip newborn diapers entirely. Register for multiple sizes, hoping to get a variety!
You may also like our guides on when to start buying diapers when pregnant? and buying diapers for baby shower!
A popular choice, widely found in supermarkets and online, Pampers Swaddlers offer everything that babies need and parents want in a diaper. From great absorbency to an umbilical cord notch for newborns to their super soft lining, these value for money diapers are our top pick for diapering your baby with disposable diapers!
3. Baby Wipes
Babies use a lot of wipes; you use more wipes than diapers. It’s a good idea to register for several large boxes of wipes and stockpile them. Those newborn diapers often are messy and use several wipes per change.
Plus, if your first child is still in diapers, you’ll go through several containers weekly.
Consider registering for Water Wipes. These are natural wipes for new babies made with 99.9% water. You have no idea if your new baby will have skin sensitivities, so these wipes are free of harmful chemicals.
4. Baby Toiletries
Add other baby toiletries to your second baby must-haves list. Some items you want to add to your list include:
Here are a few handy guides you may want to check out:
5. Bibs
One thing that may be hard to pass down from child to child is bibs. Bibs go through a lot of use and end up nasty. They fall apart from frequent washing, and the plastic ones break over time.
Add a few packs of bibs to your list. These aren’t too expensive, and it’s something you’ll use regularly. One of the most popular choices is a set of Bumkins SuperBibs with sturdy pockets to catch all the food they drop.
6. Burp Cloths
You may have some burp cloths for your baby, but they often get grimy and shredded from use. Add another pack of burp cloths for your new baby; they’re handy to have.
Burp cloths don’t have to be fancy. Grab a pack of 100% cotton muslin burp cloths; these are no frill and workhorses that last for years!
7. Pacifiers & Bottle Nipples
It’s not a good idea to share pacifiers with multiple kids. Silicone and rubber break down over time, making them unsafe for baby number two.
Put a few packs of pacifiers on your list, and if you want to use pacifiers when your baby is awake, a few pacifier clips keep them secured to your baby’s clothes. Losing pacifiers is never fun when out and about, plus it prevents them from touching the floor.
Bottle nipples are similar; the material breaks down over time. So, buying new nipples is essential for safety; otherwise, these old bottle nipples are a choking hazard.
These are inexpensive items to add to your second baby registry. Put all of the nipple flow sizes on your list since you never know how fast your baby moves up a size.
Here are a few guides to help you choose the right pacifier for you and your baby:
- Best Pacifiers For Newborns
- Best Pacifier For Breastfed Babies
- Best Preemie Pacifiers
- Best Pacifiers For Tongue Tied Babies
- How Many Pacifiers Do I Need?
8. Breastfeeding Pillow
A nursing pillow is essential, especially in the first few weeks. It goes around your waist, giving your arms a break when feeding your baby. It means you only have to use one hand; sometimes, that’s all you need.
Plus, if you have a c-section, it adds an extra layer of protection around your incision from little knees when your toddler crawls onto your lap.
The My Brest Friend nursing pillow is a fantastic choice when it comes to supporting both mother and baby during breast and bottle feeding.
The pillow wraps around your torso providing built-in back support and is secured with a clasp so it stays in position.
The top of the cushion is flat which helps your baby to maintain the ideal positioning to latch on.
And the flat front cushion eliminates the gap between the baby and parent, which prevents your baby from rolling in or away during breastfeeding.
The cover is both removable and machine washable for easy cleaning.
9. Breast Milk Storage Bags
Breastfeeding moms who plan to pump and store milk must gather plenty of storage bags.
Think about how much milk you plan to pump and store. If you plan to pump and store a lot of milk, then disposable storage bags make the most sense. However, reusable silicone storage bags are an environmentally friendly choice if you only want to pump and store them for the occasional date night.
Learn more in our best breastmilk storage bags and can you reuse breast milk storage bags? guides.
10. Hands-Free Nursing Breast Pump
You may already have a breast pump you love, but if you need a new one, consider getting the Willow Hands-Free Breast Pump. Pumping hands-free is convenient and means you don’t need to stay plugged into a wall for 20 minutes.
The Willow Pump is worn inside of your bra, collecting breast milk as you go about your day.
The Willow 3.0 wearable breast pump is a hands-free, cordless, double-sided pump that fits neatly into a nursing bra, which is perfect for moms who want to pump on the go and discretely!
It has 7 different levels of pumping so you can easily find a settle that best suits you. It also has a powerful maximum suction power of 245 mmHg.
I also love that with the Willow, you can choose between using reusable milk containers or milk bags. The milk containers for the Willow hold 4 ounces for each side.
It also comes with an app so you can connect your pump to your smartphone via Bluetooth which allows you to control the pump and keep track of your pumping sessions.
11. Haakaa Silicone Breast Pump
One of the best things for breastfeeding moms to have is a Haakaa, but it’s hard to pass down since it’s made from silicone.
They attach to your breast with suction and collect milk while you nurse your baby on the other side. It is a great way to build up your milk storage stash without taking extra time out of your schedule.
There is a lot to love when it comes to this simple yet mighty breast pump!
This award-winning and best-selling manual breast pump is hands-free and lets you express milk using the power of natural suction.
The lightweight pump is 100% portable and doesn’t require any cords, batteries or assembly.
It is smooth inside and extremely easy to clean and can be sterilized by simply boiling in water for 2-3 minutes.
It also comes with a suction base that sticks to flat surfaces to prevent accidental spills as well as a cap.
The Haakaa pump is FDA-approved, made from high-quality food grade silicone and is BPA, PVC and phthalate-free.
12. Nipple Cream for Nursing
Something else you more than likely used up with your first child is nipple cream. Nipple Butter by Earth Mama is an organic cream that doesn’t contain lanolin, so you don’t have to wipe it off before your baby nurses.
13. Another High Chair or Toddler Booster Seat
If your current high chair is in use with your toddler, you may want to get an extra one for your new baby. Many high chairs adjust for toddlers as a booster seats, but kids often use a high chair for at least one to two years.
The Stokke Tripp Trapp High Chair is a versatile and long-lasting high chair that can hold up to 300 lbs, making it a chair for life.
It includes a baby set with a five-point harness for children from 6-36 months and can be adjusted to achieve the ideal ergonomic angle.
The chair's timeless design and wide range of colors make it a beautiful addition to any setting. JPMA certified, it meets or exceeds ASTM safety standards.
Designed with a purpose by Peter Opsvik in 1972, the Tripp Trapp High Chair brings your child to the dining table and closer to the family making it a fantastic choice for baby lead weaning.
14. Baby Clothes
Some may assume you won’t need new clothes for a second baby, but that’s not always true. If your second baby is a different gender or is born in a different season, you need new clothes.
Baby clothes are easy to gather, so you may not put them on your registry checklist. People often buy new clothes without needing to be asked; buying adorable baby clothes is something everyone enjoys!
Ask your friends if they have any baby clothes they want to get rid of or check out local consignment shops. Babies go through clothing quickly at this stage, so second-hand shopping is a good way to save some money.
You may also like our guide on how many baby clothes do I need?
15. Big Sibling & Little Sibling Clothing
You will want a picture of your two kids wearing big sibling and little sibling outfits. It’s so precious to see, and it’s great for pictures in the hospital!
16. Swaddle Blankets
If you used Velcro swaddle blankets with your first baby, check to see if the Velcro is worn out. Washing swaddles wears out the material over time as it gets caught in the washer on other items.
You may need to add a few swaddling blankets to your registry. Swaddles with zippers make changing diapers easier in the middle of the night, and they won’t wear out as easily with usage.
17. A New Crib & Crib Mattress
A new crib and crib mattress is something you may or may not need. If your first child’s crib transitions into a toddler bed, then you will more than use that as they get older. So, you may need to get a second crib.
However, if you move your older child to a separate bed, then the crib is open for you to use for your second child.
When you select a crib mattress, it should be firm and properly support your baby. A firm mattress decreases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome, and it’s not advised to use a secondhand mattress because it may have lost some of its firmness with dips and bumps.
We have a ton of great guides on buying a crib so you can make the right choice for you and your baby:
- Best Cribs For Small Spaces
- Best Mini Cribs
- Best Cribs For Twins
- Best Cribs With Changing Station
- Best Cribs For Short Moms
- Best Waterproof Crib Mattress Pads
- Mini Crib Vs Crib
- Best Crib Alternatives
18. Nursery Blackout Curtains
If your second baby has his own nursery, you need another set of nursery blackout curtains. Blackout curtains are a must-have item because they stop your child from rising with the sun; it sets good sleep habits with a dark environment.
When it comes to blackout curtains you want to know that they will do the job you buy them for...and with over 40,000 positive Amazon reviews, you know these top-rated blackout curtains for nurseries are a fantastic option!
19. Nursery Decor
Is your new baby sleeping in the same room as your older child or in a separate room? If your second baby has a separate room, you need new decor.
This may not be something you need immediately.
The American Academy recommends room sharing with parents for Pediatrics to decrease the risk of SIDs. Many parents share a room for several months after birth, giving you time to prepare their nursery.
20. White Noise Machine
A white noise machine is definitely a baby nursery must-have. Chances are your older child still uses theirs, so grab a second one for your baby’s new nursery.
Get one now if you didn’t use a white noise machine with your first. White noise will drown out all the sounds an older sibling makes while the new baby sleeps.
Babies love white noise. They are used to the “whooshing” sound of your blood moving throughout your body, along with your heartbeat and other womb sounds. They never stayed in a quiet environment, so the background noise helps them sleep.
21. Second Baby Monitor
You may or may not decide to get a second baby monitor, depending on if you still use the first one you have. If you still use the first one, adding a second monitor lets you watch both kids as they sleep. Some video monitors hook up to two cameras, viewing the live stream on one parent screen.
A baby monitor with Bluetooth is a great splurge for your second baby. These allow you to access the feed on your phone; no one wants to carry a monitor with them while cleaning the house, but you more than likely have your phone with you.
You can learn more about our top baby monitor recommendations for multiple children in our best baby monitor for two rooms, best split screen baby monitor, and best baby monitors for twins guides.
The Babysense boasts of a large 5" LCD display that comes with a split-screen HD display with 2 HD Cameras. This allows you to easily see both cameras or babies side by side on the same screen. You can even connect up to 4 cameras in different rooms.
It also comes with remote control access including remote pan and tilt and up to x4 zoom. As well as a 960ft range.
Other great features include two-way audio, white noise sound or the programmed lullaby sounds, IR night vision, and a built-in adaptable intensity night light.
It is not connect via WiFi which is great for security as well as travel.
22. Car Seat
Car seats are tricky because they have expiration dates. In most cases, the expiration date is 5 to 10 years, so if your first child is only a year or two old, it should be safe to reuse their infant car seat.
Be sure to check your infant car seat to make sure it is safe to reuse. All car seats are required by law to list the expiration date.
If you are within the safe window of use, then you don’t need to register for an infant car seat, but you will need a second convertible car seat when your baby gets a little older. Graco Extend2Fit is an excellent option if you want a car seat that lets your baby rear face until 50 lbs.
If space in your car is tight, then you may also want to check out guide to the best narrow car seat!
23. Car Seat Mirror
If you have a car seat mirror for your first child because they are still rear-facing, then make sure you get a second one for your new baby. You want to keep an eye on both kids as you drive.
24. Double Stroller
Undoubtedly, you want a double stroller when you have a second child, but the type of double stroller you pick will vary.
If your first child is older and often doesn’t ride in a stroller, a sit and stand stroller is an excellent choice. It gives the older child a place to stand to get a break from walking with designated spots for your new baby.
If both of your babies are close in age, you may prefer a side-by-side double stroller. These are cozier and give space for both kids to rest and nap if needed.
Many parents wonder if they really need a double stroller since it’s a pricey item. If your oldest child is three years old, they may not use a stroller for long, so is it worth the purchase?
In general, having a double stroller is a great idea. You have to multitask as a mom of two, especially when you go out places. A double stroller gives you somewhere to put both children safely, and little legs get tired when visiting museums, the zoo, or other places.
Here are a few double strollers guides to help you find a double stroller you’ll love!
- Best Double Strollers
- Best All Terrain Double Strollers
- Best Sit And Stand Strollers
- Best Travel Double Strollers
- Best Double Umbrella Strollers
25. Baby Carrier
A baby carrier is a lifesaver when you have two kids; it lets you hold your new baby while taking care of the older sibling. It also works the other way around; your older child will also appreciate the baby carrier snuggles.
If you already have a baby carrier, having a second means both babies can be carried simultaneously. Your partner may wear one baby, while you wear another. Also, if you have a baby wrap for your newborn, you can use a soft structured carrier at the same time for your first child.
The Ergo 360 is an all in one carrier that grows with your baby from newborn to toddler (0-48 months; 7-45lbs). From forward facing in to forward facing out, hip and back carry it's hard to go past the versatility of this baby carrier!
We love it for forward facing baby wearing as it is easy to adjust and provides head & neck support for your baby. This is in additional to the padded lumbar back support and extra padded shoulder straps that provide maximum comfort.
The Omni 360 is so incredible for warm weather because it's made with soft, durable mesh fabric that keeps both you and your baby cool. It also has a detachable storage pouch and a UPF 50+ baby hood for sun protection and privacy.
26. Second Humidifier for a Nursery
Something else to consider getting is a second humidifier. Humidifiers are great when your baby is sick and needs to sleep. When cold and flu season arrives, the chances of both your kids getting sick at the same time is high, and you’ll need one for both kids.
This Frida Baby humidifier is actually 3 devices in 1: humidifier, diffuser and nightlight!
They can be used all together, or individually making the Frida Baby extremely versatile.
It can run for up to 12hours and comes with an auto stop feature when the water tank is empty.
And the mist adjuster goes from gentle mist to tropical rainforest with a twist of the knob.
You can even add Breath Frida Vapor Drops or any aromatherapy-grade essential oil for easier breathing - it covers up to 320 square feet with a 0.5 gallon tank.
27. Baby Medication
You should always have some children’s medication on hand before your baby arrives, such as gas drops, Tylenol, and gripe water. Be sure to check the ages to ensure it is safe for your baby to take.
28. Baby Laundry Detergent & Fabric Softener
It’s often a good idea to wash your baby’s laundry in a baby laundry detergent since many have chemicals that may cause reactions.
Should I Create a Registry for a Second Baby?
Absolutely! A second-time mom should create a gift registry for their new baby. It helps you keep track of the items you need, and loved ones enjoy buying for a new baby. It gives them ideas for what you actually need instead of buying things you don’t need.
Years ago, the tradition was for mothers to only have one baby shower, but times have changed. Mothers now have celebrations for their second, third, fourth, etc, babies, often with small guest lists. Typically, these celebrations are for those you spend the most time with who want to celebrate your new baby and would gift you anyway!
When it comes to creating your baby registry it is hard to go past Amazon.
With Amazon, you have access to almost all of the brands and products you love in one convenient place. You can even add products from other websites using their Universal Registry feature!
When you register with Amazon, you’ll get a 10-15 percent off a one-time purchase of products from your registry (for Prime members).
It has an incredible 365 extended returns period as well as free two-day shipping on registry items.
Best of all, it includes a free welcome box of mom and baby products that you can test out after your little one arrives, valued up to $35.
What should I put on my second baby registry?
What should to put on your second baby registry will vary depending on what you already have, and is not in use, and what items you need. Items you will want to consider include a car seat, double stroller, 2nd baby monitor, second crib, baby clothes, and of course consumables you need to restock up on like diapers.
Final Thoughts on second baby Checklist
Waiting for the arrival of your second born baby is an exciting time. It’s also a fantastic time to prepare by gathering all your 2nd baby essentials. These are essentials that you may need two of depending on the age of your first baby such as a double stroller or consumables you need to restock up on like diapers.
We hope this guide has helped you to put together your list of must haves for second baby!
And if you’re looking for more great guides, check out these guides on preparing for baby checklist, save money on baby items, pregnancy announcement ideas, and big sister announcement ideas. Or even our guide on things new moms need for themselves.
