It’s not long until your little one will be arriving, which means it’s time to get stocked up on all those newborn baby essentials. From baby clothes to food and nappy changing must-haves, it can be overwhelming trying to navigate just how much stuff one tiny person needs (and costs!). That's why a newborn baby essentials list is a must-have.
A list is key for significant moments like these, which is why we’ve come up with the ultimate checklist for all your newborn essentials. We round up all those items you and your baby really can’t live without, so you can forget about those not-so-important ones.
Baby feeding essentials
There’s a whole bunch of baby things you’ll need to help you through mealtimes. Here’s the most important:
• Nursing bra/comfy sleep bra
• Plenty of bibs (around 4-8)
• Muslin squares or burp cloths(you'll want a lot of these!)
Baby nappy changing essentials
If you’re a first time mum, changing your baby’s nappy can be quite a daunting experience. But don’t worry, with our helpful step-by-step guide and these items, you’ll be a nappy changing pro in no time.
• Changing mat - so baby can lie flat to be changed wherever you are
• Disposable nappies - you'll need around 2-3 boxes or [reusable nappies]{href='https://www.motherandbaby.com/first-year/products/baby/best-reusable-nappies' } - you'll probably need around 30
• Nappy bags or nappy bin
• Changing bag/diaper bag
Baby clothing essentials
Who doesn’t love cute baby clothes? Afterall, you’re going to get through a lot of these as your baby will grow quickly, so it’s important to just buy the newborn essentials in order to keep your bank balance happy.
• Cardigans/jackets
• Hats
• Scratch mittens (or you can buy sleepsuits with built in mittens if you prefer)
• A few pairs of socks/booties (though if you're having a summer baby you may want to wait longer for these!)
Baby bathtime essentials
Bathtime is brilliant for a little bonding with your baby. Don’t be tempted to get too bogged down in bath toys. Here’s exactly what you need:
• Baby towel
Baby sleep essentials
You'll of course need somewhere for baby to sleep (or hope that they'll sleep!) In the first 6 months the Lullaby Trust recommend that baby sleeps in the same room as you, so it depends on the space you have available whether you opt for a cot or a bedside crib. You will also need:
• Baby bedding including mattress, waterproof mattress cover and sheets
• Sleeping bags/swaddle
Baby health essentials
Your baby getting sick is probably every parent's worst nightmare, so if it does happen you’ll want to make sure you can help them quickly. With these essentials your little one will hopefully be on the way to feeling better in no time:
• Calpol - it's a good idea to have some on hand to give them after their 8 week jabs
Baby gear essentials
When you’re out and about on the move with your baby, whether that be in the car or by foot, you’ll want to make sure they’re comfy and secure.
• Car seat
• Sling or baby carrier
Added extras
• Bottles/teats/bottle brush (around 8-10)
• Breast pump (manual/hand or electric)
• Sterilising equipment: Steam steriliser, microwave steriliser bags, microwave steriliser or cold water steriliser
• Swaddle
• 4-6 dummies
• Cradle cap shampoo
• Dishwasher basket for small items
• Snowsuit
• Play mat
• Pram hand muffs (a great one for winter)
• Toys
Our baby essentials checklist
You can print this checklist out or save it to your notes for your baby essentials shopping trip:
