A free checklist

Before You Spend Another $400 on Baby Stuff

What to skip, what to buy used, and the benefits expecting couples often miss.

A free checklist from Real Parent Prep — for both of you.

No one tells you how expensive this gets — or how much of it you can skip. The lists online are mostly written by people who want to sell you something. This one isn't. It's short on purpose: read it on your phone, or print it and bring a pen. This is educational, not financial, legal, or medical advice — wherever money or insurance comes up, we give you the question to ask, not a promise.

1. What to Skip (or Wait On)

☐ Wipe warmer — the most-regretted purchase in parent forums.
☐ A big stock of newborn-size clothing — babies outgrow it in weeks.
☐ Shoes — newborns don't walk.
☐ Changing table — a pad on a dresser you own works.
☐ Bottle sterilizer — hot soapy water + a rack; ask your pediatrician.
☐ A fancy bassinet/crib bought too early — you don't yet know how baby sleeps best.
☐ Baby food maker — a blender or fork; solids are months away.
☐ The little extras — photo props, premium diaper pails, special detergent.

Real parents say (public parent communities — not testimonials): "80% of the items we bought before the baby came were totally unnecessary." — r/beyondthebump · "We could have saved around $1,000 by not buying the crib he never slept in." — r/beyondthebump

2. What to Buy Used vs. New

Usually fine used/borrowed: clothes (esp. newborn/0–3mo), furniture, toys, swings, bouncers, playmats, high chairs (check straps/recalls), carriers, maternity clothes.

Buy NEW for safety reasons: car seats (never used/expired/unknown history — check manufacturer guidance + your pediatrician); crib mattress (firm, well-fitting; follow current safe-sleep guidance, ask your pediatrician).

Real parents say: "I could have gotten a breast pump for free. My insurance covered it." — r/pregnant

3. What to Delay Until Baby Is Actually Here

☐ Clothing sizes beyond the first few
☐ Bottles & pacifiers in quantity
☐ The "main" sleep setup
☐ Carriers (try first)
☐ Formula & bulk newborn diapers

4. The Benefits & Money Questions Most Couples Miss

(ask — don't assume; eligibility varies by employer, insurer, state)

☐ Ask your insurer: is a breast pump covered? (ACA — most plans generally must.)
☐ Ask HR: short-term disability? Intermittent FMLA (applies to BOTH parents)? When to file?
☐ Ask: FSA/HSA — pre-tax dollars for delivery or eligible items? (~20–30% savings.)
☐ Check: will I owe TWO deductibles (mom + baby) near year-end?
☐ Look into: Child Tax Credit + adding baby to insurance within the enrollment window (mind deadlines).
☐ Check WIC eligibility — it can include a free breast pump.

Real parents say: "No one told me I'd owe TWO deductibles." — r/beyondthebump

5. Before You Buy Anything, Ask These 5 Questions

Do we need it now?
Can we borrow/buy used?
Does insurance or a benefit cover it?
Will baby outgrow it fast?
Is it a safety item that must be new (car seats, mattresses — yes; most else — no)?

You just did the hard part.

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You just handled the gear & money pile. The full Founding Edition handles the rest — partner roles, visitor rules, night shifts, safety basics, appointment questions, and postpartum prep.

It’s a downloadable PDF kit — worksheets, checklists & plans. No app, no account. Built to be used together.

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Footer disclaimer: This guide is educational and is not financial, legal, or medical advice. Benefits, coverage, safety guidance, and eligibility vary by employer, insurer, and state and change over time. Confirm specifics with your own insurer, HR, a qualified professional, and your pediatrician before deciding.