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Preparing for a newborn can feel overwhelming with all the essentials needed. Here’s a comprehensive shopping list to ensure you’re ready. From strollers to sleep aids, these are the top must-haves to ease your baby’s arrival.
The Lullaby Trust advises keeping your baby in the same room with you for the first six months, ideally up to a year. Start with a Moses basket or side-sleeper crib near your bed to make nighttime feeds easier. When your baby begins to pull up (around six months), it’s time to transition to a cot.
For bedding, use a firm mattress with fitted sheets to ensure safe sleeping. A baby sleeping bag is often safer than loose blankets—choose a tog rating suitable for the season. Zip-up swaddles are a convenient option, and a waterproof mattress cover can be useful. Avoid cot bumpers and baby nests, as they aren’t recommended for safe sleep. A room thermometer is helpful to maintain an optimal sleep environment.
Setting up a changing station in your room can make nighttime diaper changes easier. Include a changing table, mat, nappy bin, and storage for essentials like nappies and wipes. You might also want a feeding area with a rocking chair and nightlight that can be moved to your baby’s room later.
Investing in a good stroller is essential, with travel systems being a versatile choice. Lightweight strollers work well in urban areas, while models with all-wheel suspension and all-terrain tires are better for varied terrains. One popular option is the 4-in-1 Joie Finiti, which offers a comfortable, adjustable seat and can be paired with the Joie i-Level car seat for added convenience.
Consider a baby carrier for short outings and public transport; the Joie Savvy and wrap-style fabric carriers are both practical choices for keeping your baby close while freeing up your hands.
For bathing, a baby bath with newborn support, rinse cup, and bath toys can make the process easier. Swaddling with a large muslin cloth can help comfort young babies who may initially resist bath time. Additional essentials include washcloths, hooded towels, gentle shampoo, baby lotion, a toothbrush, and nail clippers.
Baby clothes are adorable, but it’s easy to overbuy. Sleep-suits are perfect for the early weeks, as babies sleep a lot and often need multiple changes daily. Keep in mind that babies grow quickly, so buy accordingly. For summer, light cotton fabrics and a sun hat are ideal, while winter calls for a pram suit, cardigans, booties, and layers for warmth.
If breastfeeding, a nursing pillow and supplies like nipple cream, breast pads, and nursing bras are helpful. If bottle-feeding, you’ll need formula, bottles, teats, a sterilizer, and a bottle maker. Stock up on burp cloths regardless of feeding choice.
When you begin weaning around six months, you’ll need feeding essentials like a high chair, baby-safe plates and cutlery, freezer pots, and a thermo pouch for outings.
It’s smart to have a baby first aid kit ready with basics like a thermometer, antiseptic wipes, and baby scissors. A baby monitor can be useful once your baby is in their own room. As they grow, baby-proof your home with locks, gates, and corner protectors.
While newborns don’t need many toys, a few items like a play gym and rattles are helpful for development. Tummy time books, a play mat, and mirrors encourage exploration. As your baby grows, developmental toys like baby walkers, musical toys, stacking blocks, and books become beneficial.
For yourself, consider a changing bag, a hospital bag, postpartum essentials, and if nursing, an accessible wardrobe. Items like memory books and photo albums can help capture these precious early moments.
