Is it Bad Luck to Buy Baby Stuff Early? Superstition vs. Practical Wisdom

It’s incredibly tempting to start buying adorable onesies, tiny socks, and nursery decorations the moment you see those two pink lines on a pregnancy test. The excitement is real, the nesting instinct kicks in early, and suddenly you’re browsing baby stores online at 2 AM imagining your little one in that impossibly cute outfit.

However, a lot of people around you might discourage you from shopping too early, warning that bad things can happen to you or the baby if you buy baby items during early pregnancy. This belief isn’t uncommon—in fact, it’s remarkably widespread across different cultures and generations.

Believing in superstitions is your own personal choice. Everyone has their own belief system shaped by culture, family traditions, personal experiences, and spiritual perspectives. There’s no judgment here about what you choose to believe. However, if you want to understand the origins of this particular belief, examine whether there’s any truth behind it, and make an informed decision about when to start preparing for your baby, keep reading.

This comprehensive guide explores the superstition around buying baby items early, examines pregnancy superstitions from around the world, discusses the practical (non-supernatural) reasons behind timing your purchases, and provides guidance on when and what to buy during each trimester. Whether you’re a first-time parent navigating these decisions or someone simply curious about the intersection of superstition and pregnancy, this article offers balanced perspective.

Is it Superstition or Is There Some Truth to It?

Pregnancy superstitions exist in virtually every culture around the world. Some of these beliefs have traveled across continents and persisted for thousands of years, passed down through generations with surprising consistency.

Pregnancy Superstitions From Around the World

Have you heard about the ‘not touching the baby bump’ belief? It’s a Liberian tradition based on the idea that evil spirits might steal or harm the baby when strangers touch a pregnant mother’s belly. Variations of this superstition exist in many cultures—some believing unwanted touching brings bad luck, others that it allows negative energy to transfer to the unborn child.

Turkish superstitions traditionally forbade pregnant women from looking at certain animals like bears, monkeys, and camels. The belief held that seeing these animals during pregnancy could cause the baby to resemble them in appearance or temperament.

Chinese traditions include numerous pregnancy superstitions: pregnant women shouldn’t attend funerals (death energy might harm the baby), shouldn’t use scissors or knives (might cause cleft palate), and shouldn’t move furniture or renovate (disturbs spiritual energy).

A more popular and widespread superstition insists that pregnant women should be allowed to indulge in any food craving she experiences. The belief warns that denying a craving will create a birthmark shaped like that food on the baby’s body.

Jewish tradition includes the superstition against having a baby shower before birth, viewing it as presumptuous and potentially inviting the “evil eye.” Many Jewish families wait until after the baby arrives to celebrate and receive gifts.

Sounds childish and meaningless when you list them out, right?

The Reality: No Scientific Basis

There’s absolutely no scientific truth to any of these superstitions, including the belief that buying baby items early brings bad luck. Purchasing a crib doesn’t cause miscarriage. Buying clothes doesn’t harm your pregnancy. Decorating a nursery doesn’t invite tragedy.

These are correlations people have invented—when someone bought baby items early and then experienced pregnancy loss, the two events became linked in their mind despite having no causal relationship. This is a common human tendency called “illusory correlation”—perceiving a relationship between variables when none exists.

However—and this is important—there are legitimate practical and emotional reasons behind the advice to wait, even if the supernatural explanations aren’t valid. Let’s explore those next.

Why Do People Believe in This Particular Myth?

A lot of the time, people believe such myths because someone’s mother or grandmother followed the same practice, creating multigenerational traditions that persist without questioning. “We’ve always done it this way” becomes sufficient justification.

Other times, it’s peer pressure from other expecting mothers who share the same belief. When everyone in your prenatal yoga class or online pregnancy forum talks about waiting to buy items, you feel pressure to conform even if you don’t personally believe in superstition.

The Emotional Logic Behind the Superstition

Many mothers believe that when they start buying early for their baby, things can go wrong—miscarriage, stillbirth, birth defects, or other complications. While buying items doesn’t cause these outcomes, there are genuine emotional reasons this belief persists:

Magical thinking during uncertainty: Pregnancy involves significant uncertainty, especially early on. Humans often develop rituals or beliefs that give us a sense of control over uncontrollable situations. “If I don’t buy things, maybe the pregnancy will be okay” offers psychological comfort even if logically we know there’s no connection.

Protection against devastating disappointment: Some women avoid buying items as emotional self-protection. If the worst happens, they reason, at least they won’t have a nursery full of baby items as painful reminders. This isn’t superstition—it’s practical risk management of emotional wellbeing.

Respecting cultural traditions: For many families, following traditional practices honors ancestors and maintains cultural connection, regardless of whether they believe in the supernatural aspects.

Community bonding: Shared superstitions create solidarity among women, connecting them through common practices and beliefs about pregnancy and motherhood.

The Practical Explanation

There is legitimate practical logic behind waiting to buy baby items, completely separate from superstition:

When you start buying very early—during the first trimester, which extends from day one of your last period until the end of week 13—you aren’t 100% certain your pregnancy will continue successfully. This is simply medical reality, not pessimism.

Approximately 10-20% of known pregnancies end in miscarriage, with the vast majority occurring during the first trimester. After hearing a heartbeat and reaching 12-13 weeks, the risk drops significantly to around 1-5%.

The buying itself doesn’t have any control over your pregnancy outcomes. It’s simply that people wish to avoid the emotional pain of having purchased items for a baby they won’t bring home. This is practical emotional planning, not superstition.

Understanding First Trimester Realities

To make informed decisions about when to start buying baby items, it’s important to understand what happens during the first trimester and why this period carries the highest risk.

Why the First Trimester Is High-Risk

The first trimester is the earliest and most critical phase of pregnancy, during which the embryo undergoes rapid development from a cluster of cells to a recognizable fetus with developing organs, limbs, and systems.

Most miscarriages occur during this period because:

• Chromosomal abnormalities (the most common cause) typically result in miscarriage before 10 weeks
• Critical organ development means this is when developmental problems manifest
• Implantation and early placental development can fail
• Maternal health issues may become apparent

This isn’t meant to scare you—the majority of pregnancies that make it to 6-8 weeks with a detectable heartbeat continue successfully. However, the statistical reality explains why many people advise caution about preparing too extensively during these early weeks.

Important Milestones That Reduce Risk

Certain milestones during the first trimester significantly reduce miscarriage risk:

6-7 weeks: Heartbeat detected – Seeing a heartbeat on ultrasound drops miscarriage risk to about 5-10%

8-9 weeks: Strong heartbeat continues – Risk drops further to approximately 4-5%

12-13 weeks: End of first trimester – Completing the first trimester reduces risk to 1-5% for the remainder of pregnancy

NIPT or nuchal translucency screening (10-13 weeks) – Normal results from these tests provide additional reassurance

Many families choose to share their pregnancy news publicly and begin preparing more extensively after these milestones.

Should You Start Buying in the First Trimester?

It’s absolutely okay to get excited and probably buy a few clothes or items for your expected baby. No one’s stopping you, and you certainly shouldn’t let superstition control your decisions if you don’t personally believe in it.

However, it’s wise to wait a few months before making major purchases or creating an entire nursery until you’re more confident (at least medically) about your pregnancy continuing. This recommendation isn’t about bad luck—it’s about emotional self-care.

The Emotional Consideration

If pregnancy loss occurs, baby items you’ve purchased can become emotionally devastating reminders. Some women find comfort in having items to memorialize their loss; others find them unbearably painful to see. You won’t know which category you fall into unless the worst happens.

Many women who’ve experienced pregnancy loss report that dealing with baby items afterward—returning them, donating them, packing them away—added an extra layer of trauma to an already heartbreaking situation.

This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t buy anything—just consider starting gradually rather than fully committing to extensive purchases during the highest-risk period.

Individual Factors That Influence the Decision

Your personal situation affects this decision:

If you have a history of pregnancy loss: You might feel more comfortable waiting until later in pregnancy to make purchases

If you have confirmed risk factors: Medical conditions or complications might make you more cautious about early preparation

If you’re naturally anxious: Extensive early purchases might increase anxiety rather than bringing joy

If you’re naturally optimistic: Waiting might feel unnecessarily pessimistic and prevent you from enjoying your pregnancy

If items are time-sensitive: Some purchases make sense early (maternity clothes you’ll need throughout pregnancy, prenatal vitamins)

If you’re finding great deals: Sometimes practical considerations override caution—if you find an amazing sale on essential items, it might make sense to purchase

There’s no single right answer—make the decision that feels emotionally comfortable for you while acknowledging the practical realities.

What You Can Actually Buy in the First Trimester

Rather than focusing on baby items during the first trimester, consider purchasing things for yourself that support your pregnancy and prepare you for the journey ahead. These purchases make practical sense regardless of outcomes and help you care for yourself during this crucial developmental period.

For Your Health and Wellness

Prenatal vitamins: Definitely based on your doctor’s recommendation. Quality prenatal vitamins should include folic acid (crucial for preventing neural tube defects), iron, calcium, DHA, and other essential nutrients. Or simply purchase a comprehensive prenatal vitamin supplement that covers all bases.

Individual supplements as recommended: Some women need additional vitamin D, vitamin C, iron, or other specific supplements based on blood work and doctor guidance

Nausea relief items: Ginger candies, ginger tea, or ginger supplements can help fight the morning sickness that’s common during the first trimester. Alternatively, you can use acupressure wristbands (Sea-Bands) that many women find helpful

Pregnancy-safe skincare: As your body changes, you might need new products—stretch mark prevention creams (though genetics matter more than products), pregnancy-safe facial care, body lotions

Maternity clothes: As your body begins changing, comfortable maternity clothing becomes essential. You’ll use these throughout pregnancy, so they’re a safe early purchase

Comfortable bras: Your breasts change significantly during pregnancy. Comfortable, supportive bras (potentially sized up) make a huge difference in daily comfort

Pregnancy pillow: Many women struggle with sleep during pregnancy. A quality pregnancy pillow provides support and comfort throughout all trimesters

For Emotional and Mental Preparation

Pregnancy journal: Record everything that happens in the upcoming months—symptoms, emotions, doctor appointments, ultrasound photos, thoughts about your baby. Whether your pregnancy ends in bringing baby home or in loss, these records can be meaningful.

Pregnancy books: Educate yourself about what to expect physically and emotionally. Knowledge reduces anxiety and helps you make informed decisions.

Meditation or pregnancy yoga apps: Support your mental health and prepare your body for labor and delivery

Practical Early Preparations

Car seat research: You don’t need to purchase yet, but researching safe options takes time. Start learning about car seat safety, types, and top-rated models

Pediatrician research: Begin identifying potential pediatricians so you’re not scrambling after birth

Hospital tour scheduling: If you’re planning a hospital birth, many offer tours—schedule these for later in pregnancy but research now

Childcare research: If you’ll need daycare, many have long waitlists. You might need to get on lists even during pregnancy

Financial planning: Review insurance coverage, understand what’s covered for prenatal care and delivery, and begin saving for baby-related expenses

Our Recommendation: The Right Time to Buy Baby Stuff

Based on both medical realities and emotional wellbeing considerations, here’s our recommended timeline for baby purchases:

First Trimester (Weeks 1-13): Minimal Baby Items

Focus on: Your health, prenatal care, education, and self-care items

Consider buying: Nothing specifically for baby yet, or perhaps one or two small items if you find something irresistible

Hold off on: Major purchases, nursery furniture, extensive clothing, registry creation

Early Second Trimester (Weeks 14-20): Beginning Preparations

After the start of the second trimester (week 14+), you can start buying things for your baby as this makes much more sense medically and emotionally. The risk of miscarriage has dropped significantly, and many women are feeling more confident about their pregnancies.

Around 18-20 weeks, you’ll likely have your anatomy scan where you can learn your baby’s sex (if you want to know). This feels like a natural celebration point and milestone to begin more serious preparation.

Start with:

• Essential furniture (crib, changing table, dresser)
• Newborn clothes and basics
• Creating your registry
• Beginning nursery planning

Mid-Second Trimester (Weeks 20-27): Registry and Major Items

This period is ideal for creating your baby registry and beginning to purchase major items. You’re far enough along that risk is significantly reduced, but still early enough that you’re not physically uncomfortable and have time to space out purchases financially.

There are still many weeks remaining before baby’s arrival, which means you’ll likely receive gifts from baby showers and family celebrations. For this reason, you can wait a bit longer before purchasing everything on your list—see what you receive as gifts first.

Focus on:

• Creating comprehensive registry
• Purchasing any items with long shipping times
• Taking advantage of sales on major items
• Gradually acquiring basics
• Completing nursery setup if you’re nesting

Third Trimester (Weeks 28-40): Final Preparations

Around the middle of your third trimester (32-34 weeks), you can go into full preparation mode and purchase anything you still need. This is the ideal time to buy car seats, diapers, blankets, baby clothes, cribs, and all remaining necessities.

By this point, you’ve likely had your baby shower and received gifts, so you know exactly what gaps remain in your preparation. Baby’s arrival is close enough that purchases feel urgent and practical.

Essential items to have by 36 weeks:

• Car seat (properly installed)
• Safe sleep space (crib, bassinet, or play yard)
• Basic clothing (onesies, sleepers, hats, socks)
• Diapers and wipes
• Feeding supplies (bottles if not breastfeeding exclusively, breast pump if desired—check out wearable breast pumps for ultimate comfort and convenience)
• Basic hygiene items (baby soap, washcloths, nail clippers)
• Going-home outfit

Some mothers even purchase items they won’t need immediately like high chairs for feeding the baby when she grows up a little, convertible car seats that last for years, or 6-12 month clothing. But that’s totally up to you and your budget—these items can easily be purchased after baby arrives once you understand your actual needs.

What to Prioritize When You Do Start Buying

When you’re ready to begin purchasing, prioritize strategically:

The Absolute Essentials

These items are non-negotiable and should be your first purchases:

Safe sleep space: Crib, bassinet, or play yard that meets current safety standards, plus fitted sheets and waterproof mattress protector

Car seat: Rear-facing infant car seat or convertible car seat, professionally installed or installation checked

Diapers and wipes: Stock up on newborn and size 1 diapers, unscented wipes

Basic clothing: 6-8 onesies or bodysuits, 6-8 sleepers, 4-6 pairs of socks, 2-3 hats, appropriate seasonal outerwear

Feeding supplies: If formula feeding or pumping, bottles and formula; if breastfeeding, perhaps a pump and nursing bras

Basic hygiene: Baby soap/shampoo, soft washcloths, hooded towels, nail clippers, diaper rash cream

The Very Helpful Items

These significantly improve daily life but aren’t technically essential:

Changing table or pad: Makes diaper changes more comfortable and organized

Baby carrier or wrap: Allows hands-free baby holding

Swaddles or sleep sacks: Help babies sleep better and more safely

Bouncer or swing: Gives you somewhere safe to put baby down while you shower or eat

Burp cloths: You’ll use dozens of these daily

Pacifiers: If you plan to use them

The Nice-to-Have Items

These are wonderful but can be acquired gradually:

Stroller: Important eventually but newborns can be worn in carriers initially

High chair: Not needed until around 4-6 months

Play mat or activity gym: Useful but not immediately essential

Baby monitor: Very helpful but not critical in small homes or apartments

Diaper bag: Any bag works initially, though dedicated diaper bags are convenient

Baby bathtub: You can bathe newborns in the sink initially

What You Probably Don’t Need

Despite what baby stores suggest, skip these common purchases:

Wipe warmers: Unnecessary and potentially promote bacterial growth

Bottle sterilizers: Boiling water works fine for most families

Diaper genies: Regular trash cans work adequately

Extensive newborn clothing: Babies grow incredibly fast—you need less than you think

Specialized baby laundry detergent: Regular free-and-clear detergent works for most babies

Shoes for newborns: Babies don’t walk and don’t need shoes

Addressing Anxiety About Timing

If you’re anxious about when to buy items, consider these perspectives:

It’s Not Tempting Fate

Buying items doesn’t cause pregnancy loss. If you’re avoiding purchases because you fear jinxing your pregnancy, that’s superstition, not reality. However, if you’re avoiding purchases because you want to protect your emotional wellbeing, that’s different and valid.

Trust Your Instincts

If buying items brings you joy and helps you bond with your pregnancy, do it. If waiting feels more comfortable, wait. There’s no virtue in denying yourself happiness because of worst-case-scenario thinking, but there’s also no shame in being cautious.

Have a Plan for Different Outcomes

Rather than not buying anything out of fear, consider having a plan for what you’d do with items if needed:

• Which trusted friend or family member would help you return or store items?
• Would you want to donate items, save them for a future pregnancy attempt, or give them to someone who needs them?
• Having a plan can reduce anxiety about the “what ifs”

Remember That Joy Is Valid

You’re allowed to be excited about your pregnancy and express that excitement through preparation—even if you’re also aware that outcomes aren’t guaranteed. Anxiety and joy can coexist; preparing for your baby while also acknowledging risk is emotionally mature, not naive.

Final Thoughts: Make the Decision That’s Right for You

The truth is that superstition won’t affect your pregnancy outcomes. Whether you buy items at 6 weeks or 36 weeks has absolutely no bearing on your pregnancy’s success. You can start buying whenever you want without fear of supernatural consequences.

However, for the sake of being emotionally comfortable and medically informed about pregnancy risks, many experts suggest waiting until the second trimester to make major purchases and extensive preparations.

This recommendation isn’t about superstition—it’s about:

• Acknowledging the higher risk period of the first trimester
• Protecting your emotional wellbeing if outcomes aren’t as hoped
• Making practical financial decisions
• Spacing out the overwhelming task of baby preparation

Ultimately, the right time to buy baby items is whenever feels right for you. Some women need to see the nursery coming together to feel connected to their pregnancy. Others find early preparation anxiety-inducing. Some carefully wait until specific milestones; others begin shopping immediately.

All of these approaches are valid. Make decisions based on your emotional needs, practical circumstances, medical situation, and personal beliefs—not on pressure from others or fear of superstition.

Whether you start buying at 8 weeks or 38 weeks, you’re not a bad parent, you’re not tempting fate, and you’re not doing it wrong. You’re simply making the choice that feels right for your unique situation.

Trust yourself, listen to your instincts, and prepare for your baby in whatever timeline brings you the most joy and the least anxiety. That’s the only “right” answer that matters.