Baby's First Essentials: Welcome to the world!
When a new family member is on the way, the excitement is huge. New parents are often unsure about what essentials their baby really needs. What's important, what's optional, and what will you only need later? Here is the checklist for parents-to-be.
Clothing
Are you expecting a winter or a summer baby? The due date is a good indicator for your baby's first set of clothes. The items you'll need are roughly the same for summer and winter, but you should adapt the materials to the season. To start, a baby needs a maximum of:
- 6 bodysuits
- 6 sleepsuits
- 2 hats
- 6 pairs of tights
- 4 jumpers or T-shirts
- 2 cardigans
- 6 pairs of socks
- 2 pairs of trousers
- 1 jacket
- 1 pair of scratch mittens
- seasonal essentials (e.g. sun hat, warm suit)
Size 50/56 will fit most newborns. However, don't buy too many items for your baby's first wardrobe, as your little one will outgrow them in just a few weeks.
Breastfeeding & Feeding
Breastfeeding and feeding are special times for you and your baby to bond. Enjoy this period with the following essential items for your baby – and for you:
- 2+ nursing bras
- Breast pads
- Nursing pillow
- Burp cloths
- Nipple cream
- Nursing tops for on the go
- Steriliser
- 2+ baby bottles
- Teats
- Bibs
Baby care
Nappies, nappies and more nappies – you can never have enough. Just as important for your baby's care are the following essentials:
- Baby wipes and washcloths
- Hooded bath towel
- Bath thermometer and baby bath
- Nasal aspirator
- Soft baby brush
- Nappy cream and soothing balm
- Baby laundry detergent
Sleeping
In the first few months of life, your baby will mostly want to sleep and feel safe and sound. With these baby essentials, you can create the perfect environment:
- Cot, including mattress & mattress protector
- 3 baby sleeping bags
- Fitted sheet for the cot
- Cot mobile
- Baby monitor
- Night light or mood light
- Changing unit
- Changing mat
- Heat lamp for the changing table
On the go
When you're out discovering the world with your baby, there are a few essentials you'll need. These include:
- Prams and baby carriers
- Changing bag
- Mobile bottle warmer
- Infant car seat
- Cuddly blanket
- Changing mat
There's no rush to buy your baby's first toy, a high chair or a nappy bin. And it's not the end of the world if you realise something is missing after the birth. Above all, your child needs you and your love. Everything else will fall into place.
