Searching for the best baby products of 2021? Look no further than our list of the latest and greatest newborn baby gear on the market right now. We’ve searched high and low (and tested over for The Bump annual Best of Baby Awards!) to find the top baby must-haves modern parents love. The result is a mix of hot new products and tried-and-true favorites that we can’t get enough of. From innovative strollers and carriers to cool newborn clothing and sensory toys, these products check every box for style, safety and age-appropriateness.

Whether you’re shopping for trendy baby gifts to give to a friend, creating the ultimate baby registry wishlist or just looking for cool newborn baby stuff to prep for a new arrival, these reliable picks are all excellent options.

Helpful Reminders to Keep in Mind When Buying Newborn Baby Stuff

Baby gear is constantly evolving and innovating to suit the needs of modern parents. New products pop up every year, jostling for space alongside tried-and-true favorites. It can be tough to cut through the jargon to find baby gear that is actually worth the investment. Here are the main shopping tips to keep in mind when searching for newborn baby stuff.

• Choose items that are appropriate for a newborn: Always read the brand’s age and weight guidelines to ensure that the product is suitable for your child’s physical and developmental needs.

• Don’t buy small toys or items with loose parts: Toys with loose parts or long threads can be a choking hazard for infants. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), toys should be larger than your child’s mouth to reduce the risk of choking.

• Invest in products from tried-and-tested brands: Although this isn’t a concrete rule, when in doubt, opt for products made by a brand with a proven track record in quality design and high safety standards.

• Read online reviews: Checking customer reviews is a fantastic way to discover the pros and cons of a particular product from real-life parents before making a purchase.

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Fuss-free baby swaddle

Happiest Baby has launched some of the most innovative newborn baby stuff on the market. Case in point: The Sleepea 5-second baby swaddle. Created by renowned pediatrician Harvey Karp, this Best of Baby award-winning swaddle is a secure, cotton wrap that mimics the feeling of the womb, helping babies peacefully drift off to sleep. The best part? The clever use of velcro and zip fasteners means you can swaddle baby in five seconds flat (yes, really!) while the inner-arm bands and leg flaps prevent them from wriggling free at 3 a.m.

Buy it: Sleepea 5-Second Baby Swaddle, $33, HappiestBaby.com

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Machine-washable activity mat

We look to Lovevery for some of the best baby products focused on baby’s developmental growth. Their beautiful activity mat, for example, has a host of fabulous features. Customize your child’s play with cute, removable accessories and concealable learning “zones.” Bonus: The mat is foldable and machine-washable (three cheers for convenience!), while the baby-safe wooden legs are sustainably sourced. (FYI: You should also check out Lovevery’s popular subscription service, which includes a newborn play kit.)

Buy it: Lovevery The Play Gym, $140, Lovevery.com

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Rotatable infant car seat

The best baby products make parents’ lives easier by addressing common pain points—and that’s exactly what the all-new CYBEX Sirona S convertible car seat does. While traditional car seats stay in place—requiring plenty of wrangling to get baby safely secured—the Sirona S is the first rotating car seat with load leg technology. This means that you can twist the seat to face you with one hand, strap baby in and twist it back to a forward- or rear-facing position. Plus, it has state-of-the-art safety features including a Sensor-Safe chest clip that alerts you if baby becomes unbuckled or other unsafe conditions arise. All these things earned this ingenious baby product a 2020 Best of Baby award.

Buy it: Cybex Sirona S SensorSafe Convertible Car Seat, $500, buybuyBABY.com

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Soft and spongy baby bath

A baby bathtub is one of the best baby products you can buy for the first few months (and beyond). Wet babies are slippery babies—but, with the Moby SoftSpot, you can bathe your little one stress-free.The cushioned tub is designed to cradle your newborn. Even cooler: The cute whale-inspired tub has a padded whale tail to support baby's head. It also conveniently fits into most bathroom and kitchen sinks, has a mesh base for water drainage and a Velcro strap that makes it easy to hang up and dry.

Buy it: SkipHop Moby SoftSpot Sink Bather, $33, SkipHop.com

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Baby hygiene essentials kit

Celebrity mom Ashley Graham took to IGTV to reveal the newborn baby stuff she can’t live without. And, unsurprisingly, many of the picks on her list are from cult-brand favorite Fridababy, including this Baby Basics Kit. This set comes with four tried-and-tested products: the Windi Gaspasser; the DermaFrida SkinSoother; the Nailfrida SnipperClipper; and the Best of Baby award-winning NoseFrida SnotSucker.

Buy it: Fridababy Baby Basics Kit, $40, buybuyBABY.com

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Wireless in-bra breast pump

Say hello to an all-in-one wearable breast pump that’s as powerful as it’s convenient. The hands-free design and silent operation makes it one of the most innovative mom and baby products of 2021. The wireless pump slips right into your bra and can be discreetly worn anywhere. It’s battery-charged, totally leakproof and connects to the Elvie app for smart pumping and tracking. Genius!

Buy it: Elvie Wearable Double Electric Breast Pump, $500, buybuyBABY.com

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Kind-to-skin diapers

These diapers go the distance, making them a Best of Baby top pick for 2020. Coterie pairs an ultra-absorbent core with an “acquisition distribution layer” that wicks liquid away within 15 seconds (holy moly!) so baby looks and feels dry for longer. These dermatologist-tested diapers are free of fragrances, chlorine, alcohol, parabens and other irritants. Better yet, a Coterie diaper can hold 25 times its weight—plus, leaks and blowouts are limited thanks to the snug, flexible fit.

Buy it: Coterie Diapers, starting from $81 for 6 packs of diapers, Coterie.com

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Flexible newborn pacifiers

Everyday newborn baby stuff can be innovative too. Check out the award-winning Flexy pacifier by Nanobébé. The seamless, one-piece design is safe for infants (there’s no small parts), while the soft silicone has a skin-like feel that helps to ease nipple confusion in breastfed babies. Plus, the ergonomic shape fits to the contours of baby’s face and flexes to stay snugly in place.

Buy it: Nanobébé Flexy Newborn Pacifier 0-3m, $6, Walmart.com

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Fashion-forward bibs

Why are we obsessed with Bella Tunno bibs? First off, they look super-cute. Secondly, we love the fact that this is a brand that gives back: For every product sold Bella Tunno donates a meal to a child in need. What’s more, these silicone bibs are flexible, dishwasher-safe and have a wide catch pocket to collect food crumbs. The best newborn gear can grow with baby, and, unlike other bibs, these have adjustable snaps instead of Velcro or magnet closures—meaning baby won’t be able to easily pull it off. Buh-bye drool stains, hello cuteness.

Buy it: Bella Tunno Silicone Baby Wonder Bib, $14, Amazon.com

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Keepsake to record baby’s first year

Lucy Darling is our go-to source for whimsical, high-quality memory books. This journal offers a sweet way to document baby’s first year, with dedicated pages for ultrasound scans, newborn footprints and monthly milestones. If you’re in the market for trendy baby gifts, this pick would make a fantastic baby shower present too.

Buy it: Lucy Darling 'Baby's First Year' Memory Book, $35, Nordstrom.com

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Space-saving swing and bouncer combo

Can’t decide between a swing and a bouncer (or don’t have space for both)? The 4moms mamaRoo 4 covers both types of motions. Actually, it offers five motions, swinging, swaying and bouncing just like you do to soothe baby when you need a break. And, since it's suitable from birth, you can add it to the list of newborn baby stuff honored in our Best of Baby awards.

Buy it: 4moms mamaRoo 4 5 Unique Motions Bluetooth Enabled Baby Swing in Dark Gray Cool Mesh, $250, Target.com

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Chic nursing cover

On the hunt for the best baby gear for breastfeeding? This item really has you covered. The versatile piece of fabric isn’t just a nursing cover, it also works as a carseat canopy, stroller cover, shopping-cart cover, high-chair cover—you name it. Plus, you wear it as an infinity scarf when not in use, and you’ll actually want to, thanks to the brand’s endless array of cute patterns.

Buy it: Copper Pearl Store Baby Car Seat Cover Canopy and Nursing Cover, $27, Amazon.com

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Stylish diaper bag that's still practical

The best baby products are often ones that don’t scream “baby.” Here’s a sleek backpack you’ll be thrilled to use whether you’re toting around a newborn or out and about solo. The fact that it’s made from recycled water bottles is a huge plus, as are the adjustable straps, multiple pockets and padded laptop sleeve. Ready for the standout feature? This diaper backpack has a fold-out changing station with a padded base and sidewalls for security and privacy, meaning you can change baby practically anywhere. It’s proof that the best baby gear is fashionable and functional.

Buy it: Paperclip Willow Recycled Ocean Plastic Convertible Backpack Diaper Bag, $199, Nordstrom.com

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On-the-go baby monitor

Keep an eye on baby even when you’re not home with this 2020 Best of Baby award-winning monitor. This baby product gives you a bird’s eye view of your child straight from your smartphone. It also boasts smart, non-wearable sensors that keep track of baby’s vitals and sleep patterns sans wires. There’s even a two-way microphone, so you can soothe baby, plus built-in speakers for streaming lullabies. The high-tech baby monitor won’t quit on you either; it’s designed to work even if your internet goes out.

Buy it: Miku Pro Smart Baby Monitor, $399, MikuCare.com

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Splashy baby skincare

Baby’s sensitive skin deserves the gentlest care, which is where these baby products come in. Tubby Todd’s line of children’s skincare is made with all-natural, organic ingredients and fresh, plant-based fragrances. This six-piece set—with hair and body wash, everyday lotion, massage oil, diaper paste and more—has everything you need.

Buy it: Tubby Todd Bath Co. The Newborn Gift Set, $99, TubbyTodd.com

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Baby bedding made for Instagram

Set the stage for sweet dreams with these whimsical crib sheets. Practically made for your Instagram feed, the playful designs by Rookie Humans frame baby in a serene scene. Be warned: Your phone is about to be filled with aerial shots of your sleeping beauty.

Buy it: Rookie Humans Underwater Love Standard Crib Sheet, $38, Maisonette.com

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Hybrid baby wrap carrier

Boppy is one of our go-to brands when it comes to newborn baby stuff. The latest product on our wishlist? The Boppy ComfyFit baby carrier. This hybrid device offers the comfort of a classic baby wrap with the practicality and support of a structured carrier. It features super-stretchy material, built-in shoulder straps and an adjustable waistband. Oh, and did we mention that it’s machine washable too? In fact, The Bump team is so smitten with this pick that it won a Best of Baby award in 2020.

Buy it: Boppy ComfyFit Baby Carrier, $50, buybuyBABY.com

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Smart bassinet

This bassinet has been a Best of Baby winner for three years running. Its perennial popularity speaks volumes, but if you’re still wondering what makes it one of the best baby products out there, we’ll give you a little rundown. First, it senses baby’s cries and automatically soothes them with white noise and a gentle rocking motion. Second, a built-in swaddle keeps baby secure and prevents rolling. Third, the Snoo reinforces healthy sleep habits and can add up to two hours of extra sleep per night. Still not convinced? This cult-favorite product is also available to rent at a fraction of the full retail price.

Buy it: SNOO Smart Sleeper Bassinet, $1,495, HappiestBaby.com

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Plastic and glass baby bottle

Have you ever seen a baby bottle quite like this? The ChiccoDuo is the first bottle to feature a glass inner layer and a plastic outer layer. The plastic casing makes this pick virtually shatterproof, while the glass interior means you don’t have to worry about a plastic leaching. It’s heat, cold and thermal shock-resistant so you can freeze it, boil it and microwave it. As if that wasn’t cool enough, it also comes with an anti-colic silicone nipple that mimics a breast-like flow for a seamless transition from breast to bottle.

Buy it: ChiccoDuo 5oz. 2-Pack Hybrid Baby Bottles with Invinci-Glass, $20 for a pack of 2, buybuyBABY.com

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Expandable modern stroller

Have you heard of this stroller? If you have a growing family, you’ll be so glad you have now. Whether you have one kid, a baby and a toddler or twins, the Mockingbird single-to-double stroller is one of the best baby gear items to add to your list. Used as a single stroller this model offers all the features one could wish for: Four wheel suspension, a one-hand fold, a spill-resistant sun canopy, three infant carrier options and a handle that can be adjusted to suit different heights. Pair it with the 2nd seat kit to accommodate multiple children with over 18 seat configurations. Now that’s smart design.

Buy it: Mockingbird Single-to-Double Stroller, $395, Mockingbird.com

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Soothing white noise machine

Sleepless nights are par for the course for new parents. Luckily, the clever people at Yogasleep have come up with a small-but-mighty white noise machine that helps lull baby to sleep. The Best of Baby award-winning product is portable and surprisingly loud (in a good way!). It can even operate overnight on a single charge so you’re never without soothing sounds.

Buy it: Yogasleep Hushh Portable White Noise Machine, $28, buybuyBABY.com

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Organic baby gift set

The best baby products aren’t all fancy, high-tech options. We’re also big fans of cool newborn baby stuff that’s just plain adorable. Estella’s range of baby gifts steal hearts time and time again. This ultra-unique set, inspired by the sights and sounds of New York City, includes a picture book, stuffed animal, lovey blanket, bib and four trendy rattles. Plus, each of the items are made using GOTS-certified organic cotton and eco-friendly dyes.

Buy it: Estella Organic Baby Gift Set, $220, Estella.com

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Organic cotton layette set

If you’re a sucker for cute newborn baby stuff (you know we are), put Monica and Andy on your radar stat. The brand makes some of the best baby clothes and accessories—like this hospital cuddle box, which has everything you need (clothing-wise) for baby’s arrival. Available in tons of adorable prints and patterns, this organic cotton set includes a blanket, pants, a kimono top and a knot cap to keep baby’s head warm.

Buy it: Monica & Andy Hospital Cuddle Box, $69, MonicaandAndy.com

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Temperature tracking thermometer

Here’s a timely baby product: A super-accurate contactless thermometer. The device syncs with an app that tracks temperatures, sets reminders for medication and even helps you access health advice. This thermometer would make a great addition to any family's first aid box, which is why we awarded it a Best of Baby award in 2020.

Buy it: Withings Thermo Smart Temporal Thermometer, $100, Withings.com

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Art-inspired baby blanket

Etta Loves, a brand that specializes in baby products to promote sensory development, has collaborated with artist Keith Haring to create a stylish range of playmats, teethers and more. Our favorite pick from this collection is the triple-layer baby blanket made from organic cotton. One side features a high-contrast monochromatic pattern, which fosters visual and cognitive development in newborns. Meanwhile, older infants will enjoy the other side, which boasts a vibrant, multi-colored “Brazil” pattern that helps develop color vision.

Buy it: Etta Loves x Keith Haring Muslin Blanket, $55, EttaLoves.com

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