Baby essentials: welcome to the world!
Expecting a new addition to the family is a very exciting time. New parents are often unsure about what their baby really needs. What's essential, what's optional, and what will you only need later on? Here's our checklist for parents-to-be.
Clothing
Will you be having a winter or a summer baby? The due date is a good guide for your baby's first set of clothes. The items you'll need are roughly the same for summer and winter, but you'll need to 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 (sun hat, warm all-in-one)
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 time is a special opportunity to bond with your baby. Enjoy this time with these first essentials for your baby – and for you:
- 2+ nursing bras
- Nursing 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! The following items are also essential for your baby care routine:
- Wet wipes and washcloths
- Hooded bath towel
- Bath thermometer and baby bath
- Nasal aspirator
- Soft brush
- Nappy balm and wound cream
- Baby-friendly laundry detergent
Sleep
In the first few months of their life, your baby will mostly want to sleep and feel safe and sound. You can create the perfect environment with these baby essentials:
- Cot including mattress & mattress protector
- 3 baby sleeping bags
- Fitted sheets for the cot
- Mobile
- Baby monitor
- Night light or mood light
- Changing unit
- Changing mat
- Heat lamp for the changing table
On the Go
When it's time to explore the world, you'll need a few essentials to keep your baby happy on the go. These include:
- Prams and baby carriers
- Changing bag
- Mobile bottle warmer
- Baby car seat
- Cuddle blanket
- Changing mat
You can take your time when it comes to buying your baby's first toy, a high chair or a nappy bin. It's also not the end of the world if you realise you've forgotten something after the birth. Above all, your child needs you and your love. Everything else will fall into place.
