Baby Post 2 - Bed, Bath and Beyond

Bath
I really like the baby bathtub that we got. It has a netting in it which allows you to give an infant a bath and then it converts when they get a little older. The one we have is The First Years Deluxe Comfort.
Hooded towels are really great. Target brand ones work just fine:)
And the Target brand wash and lotion are just as good as Johnson and Johnson!

Bed
Whew. Tons of options. Most parents feel more comfortable sleeping in the same room as their newborn - but for how long really varies.
Bassinet/Cradle - There are some really beautiful bassinets and cradles out there, but these are pretty time limited due to length and weight restrictions.
Pack-and-Play - This is a great investment because you can use this anytime you travel. It folds up pretty compact. Many also have a portion that you can place at the top to either change diapers or for a newborn. Only drawback is the size when open. They can take up quite a bit of space.
Arms Reach Co-Sleeper - This is similar to a pack-and-play, but one side is lower so that it will go right beside your bed. It also comes in a mini size (which I had) if you don't have a ton of space. This is great for nursing moms or c-section moms. You can just slide the baby over and back - you don't have to get up, bend over, etc. The co-sleeper also has 2 heights, so you can lower once your baby starts sitting up.
Misc - There are lots of different things you can purchase that will claim to reduce colic, reduce SIDS risk, etc. But if you think about it, some of them look pretty uncomfortable! We just have a wedge that we placed underneath the fitted sheet.

Baby Monitors
All I can say is read the reviews! Amazon is a great website because you can read reviews from people that have actually purchased the product. Consumer Reports is also a resource, but I have found it difficult to sometimes locate the products that it rates highly.

Beyond
Sleepwear - I am all for the gowns and anything with a zipper. With newborns you are going to change a million diapers at night and being sleep deprived, your fingers just don't work as fast with all those snaps! You and your little one will appreciate anything that is quick and I think the gowns and zippers are the best options
Diapers - My personal favorite are Pampers Swadlers.
Pacifiers - It seems that some babies like them and others don't. And those that do have a preference to one brand. So if your little one doesn't take to them right away - maybe a different brand is all you need.