A category-by-category guide to setting up for your newborn — from the big-ticket essentials to the small items that make all the difference.
Preparing for a new baby is one of the most exciting — and overwhelming — things you'll ever do. The sheer volume of products marketed to new parents can make it hard to know what you actually need versus what's just clever packaging.
This guide breaks down every category of baby prep, with honest recommendations on what's worth investing in, what you can be flexible about, and what to keep in mind as you build your checklist.
Gear Essentials
This is the category where quality really counts — these are the items that keep your baby safe and make daily life manageable.
Stroller: A good stroller is one of the most-used purchases you'll make. Look for something with a sturdy frame, easy fold mechanism, good suspension for varied terrain, and compatibility with an infant car seat. Premium European brands like Cybex and Bugaboo are popular for a reason, but there are solid mid-range options too. Think about your lifestyle — do you need something compact for city use, or a full-size pram?
Baby Carrier: A soft structured carrier is invaluable in the newborn stage. It keeps baby close and your hands free. The Ergobaby Embrace is a favourite for newborns — no complicated wrapping, good back support for the wearer, and a snug, secure fit for baby. Look for something ergonomic (baby's knees should be higher than their bottom — the "M" position).
Infant Car Seat / Carry Cot: If your stroller has a carry cot attachment, this can double as a safe flat-lie sleeping space for the early weeks. A separate infant car seat is essential for travel from day one — look for i-Size (ISOFIX) certification for the highest safety standards.
Convertible Car Seat: Many parents invest in a convertible seat (like the Nuna Rava) that grows with the child from infant through toddler years, rather than buying multiple seats. It's a bigger upfront cost but a better long-term investment.
Bouncer: A bouncer is one of those items you don't think you need until you have a newborn. It gives baby a safe, comfortable spot to rest while you have your hands free. Look for one that reclines fully for newborns and adjusts as baby grows.
Nursery Essentials
Setting up the nursery is where nesting instinct peaks — but it's easy to over-invest in aesthetics at the expense of function. Prioritise safety and practicality first.
Crib: Choose a crib that meets current safety standards — no drop sides, firm mattress support, and slats spaced no more than 6cm apart. Whether you go for a classic white, a natural wood finish, or something custom, make sure it's sturdy and from a reputable source.
Crib Mattress & Protector: A firm, well-fitting mattress is non-negotiable for safe sleep. Always add a waterproof mattress protector — you'll want at least two so you always have a clean one ready.
Crib Sheets: Fitted sheets should fit snugly with no excess fabric. Stock up on at least three to four — again, spills and blowouts happen more than you'd think.
Baby Nest: A baby nest or lounger (like those from Snuggle Me) helps newborns feel secure in a big crib. Not recommended for unsupervised sleep, but wonderful for daytime naps and settling.
Changing Table & Changing Pad: A dedicated changing area saves your back. Whether you go for a standalone changing table or a dresser-top changer, always use a safety strap and never leave baby unattended. A firm, easy-to-clean changing pad is essential.
Baby Monitor: Especially useful once baby moves to their own room. Options range from basic audio monitors to video monitors with breathing sensors — choose based on your comfort level and budget.
White Noise Machine: Newborns are used to the constant sound of the womb, so silence can actually be unsettling. A white noise machine (or even a simple app) can dramatically improve sleep. It's a small purchase with a big return.
Rug, Blackout Curtains & Storage: These finishing touches matter more than you'd think. A soft rug makes tummy time more comfortable. Blackout curtains are essential for daytime naps. And good storage — bookshelves, baskets, drawer organisers — keeps the room functional as the baby stage progresses into toddlerhood.
Feeding Essentials
Whether you plan to breastfeed, formula feed, or do a combination of both, being prepared for all scenarios is smart.
Breast Pump: A wearable pump offers hands-free pumping and is a game-changer for busy mums. A traditional double electric pump (like the Spectra S1) is more powerful if output is a priority. Check whether your insurance or healthcare plan covers a pump.
Steriliser & Dryer: If you're bottle feeding or pumping, a steam steriliser removes 99.9% of bacteria. An all-in-one steriliser and dryer (like the Tommee Tippee Perfect Prep or Philips Avent) eliminates the extra step of waiting for parts to air dry.
Bottle Warmer: A bottle warmer heats milk to the right temperature without hot spots. The Tommee Tippee Easi-Warm is a reliable, fuss-free option. Avoid using a microwave to warm breast milk — it destroys nutrients and creates dangerous hot spots.
Feeding Bottles: The Dr Brown Anti-Colic range is consistently recommended by lactation consultants for babies who switch between breast and bottle — the wide neck and slow-flow teat mimic breastfeeding. Start with a small set and see what works for your baby before buying in bulk.
Formula Water Prep Station: If formula feeding, a prep station (like the Tommee Tippee Perfect Prep) dispenses water at the exact right temperature instantly. It's a worthwhile investment over constantly boiling and cooling water.
Nursing Pillow: A firm, C-shaped nursing pillow supports baby during feeds and takes the strain off your arms, wrists, and back. The Boppy and My Brest Friend are two well-known options.
Bibs, Burp Cloths & Muslins: You will go through more of these than you think. Have at least 10 bibs and 8–10 burp cloths/muslins. Larger muslin squares are incredibly versatile — use them as swaddles, shade covers, changing mats, and more.
Milk Storage Bags: If you're pumping, silicone milk storage bags (like those from Haakaa or Lansinoh) are essential for building a freezer stash.
Nursing Pads: Disposable or reusable — you'll need them either way, especially in the early weeks. Have them ready before baby arrives.
Nipple Cream: Earth Mama's Organic Nipple Butter is a popular lanolin-free option that doesn't need to be wiped off before nursing. Start using it in the last weeks of pregnancy to prepare.
Nursing Cover: A lightweight, breathable nursing cover gives privacy when feeding on the go. Infinity scarves can double as nursing covers if you prefer a more versatile option.
Playtime Essentials
Play Mat: A padded activity play mat with hanging toys is one of the most-used items in the first year. It encourages tummy time, visual tracking, and reaching — all key developmental milestones. The Fisher-Price Deluxe Kick & Play Piano Gym grows with baby through multiple stages.
Baby Books: It's never too early to start reading. Board books with high-contrast patterns are ideal for newborns (whose vision is limited to black, white, and red). Classics like Black & White by Tana Hoban or the That's Not My… series are great starting points.
Bath, Grooming & Diapering
Baby Bath Tub: A supportive baby bath tub with a non-slip base is much safer than bathing a newborn in a regular tub. Bucket-style tubs (like the Tummy Tub) are popular for keeping newborns warm and calm during baths.
Electric Nail Trimmer: Newborn nails are razor-sharp and grow surprisingly fast. An electric nail file (like the Haakaa) is far less anxiety-inducing than traditional clippers on tiny fingers.
Grooming Kit: A basic grooming kit (nasal aspirator, nail scissors, thermometer, medicine dropper) is a must. Tommee Tippee and Frida Baby both make comprehensive kits.
Diapers: Don't stockpile too many newborn-size diapers before the birth — some babies skip newborn sizing entirely depending on their weight. Start with one pack of newborn and one pack of size 1 to see what you need.
Baby Wipes: Water Wipes (99.9% water) are the gold standard for newborn skin. Once baby's skin is a bit more resilient, you can switch to a more economical brand.
Diaper Rash Cream: Aquaphor Baby Healing Ointment and Sudocrem are both classic choices. Apply a thin layer at every diaper change as a barrier — prevention is much easier than treatment.
Diaper Caddy: A diaper caddy is a portable organiser that keeps all your nappy-changing essentials — diapers, wipes, creams, and spare onesies — neatly in one place and easy to carry from room to room. It's especially handy in those early weeks when you're changing baby everywhere. Look for one with multiple compartments and a sturdy handle. Brands like Ubbi and Pearhead make popular, stylish options.
Baby Skincare: For newborns, less is more. Mustela's newborn range is widely trusted for sensitive skin. Stick to a gentle shampoo and body wash, a light moisturiser, and baby oil for massage — and avoid anything with fragrance in the early weeks.
Bath Towels & Washcloths: Hooded baby towels are adorable and practical — the hood keeps their head warm right after bathing. Have at least 2–3 towels and 8–10 washcloths.
Waterproof Changing Sheets: These go under baby on the changing mat or in the crib. They save your sheets and mattress protector from mid-change surprises. Have 2–3 on rotation.
Diaper Bag: A well-designed diaper bag makes outings so much smoother. Look for insulated bottle pockets, a removable changing mat, and enough compartments to stay organised. StorkSak and Freshly Picked make stylish options that don't look like traditional diaper bags.
Wardrobe Essentials
Baby clothes are the most fun category — and the easiest one to over-buy. The key is buying in stages across sizes, since most newborns outgrow the NB size in just 2–4 weeks.
Vests / Bodysuits: The wardrobe backbone. Stock 8–10 in newborn, 5–6 in 0–3M, and 4–5 in 3–6M. Poppers at the bottom make nappy changes easier — look for envelope necks too, which slide down over the shoulders rather than over the head for blowout emergencies.
Footies / Sleepsuits: The true workhorse of the newborn wardrobe — babies practically live in these. Aim for 10–12 in newborn, 8–10 in 0–3M, and 6–8 in 3–6M. Two-way zips are worth seeking out; they make night nappy changes much faster.
Sleeper Gowns: An often-overlooked essential. Open at the bottom, sleeper gowns are the easiest option for night changes — no snaps, no zips, no fumbling in the dark. Have 3–4 in newborn size.
Rompers & Outfits: A handful of rompers or one-pieces (3–4 across 0–6M) covers you for outings and casual daywear. One or two special occasion outfits round things out.
Layers: Muslin swaddles are the most versatile item you'll own — use them as swaddles, light blankets, burp cloths, shade covers, and more. Have 4–5 on hand. Add 3–4 cellular blankets for the crib (safer than thick blankets) and 2 light cardigans or jackets for easy temperature regulation on outings.
Accessories: Keep it simple: 6–8 pairs of socks, 2–3 pairs of scratch mittens, 2–3 hats, and one pair of soft booties. That's genuinely all you need.
A note on quantities: Don't over-stock any single size — babies grow at different rates and gift givers tend to gravitate towards newborn sizes. Accept every hand-me-down you can, and wash everything in fragrance-free detergent before use.
A Few Final Tips
Don't buy everything at once. Build your list in stages — start with the absolute essentials (safe sleep, feeding, diapering) and add items as you discover what your baby actually needs.
Lean on reviews from real parents. Brand marketing is not the same as real-world performance. Community forums, parenting blogs, and peer recommendations are your best research tools.
Think long-term. Where possible, choose products that grow with baby — convertible car seats, adjustable high chairs, modular strollers. They cost more upfront but save money overall.
The most important thing isn't the brand — it's the basics. A safe sleep space, a reliable feeding setup, and a calm, present caregiver. The rest is support.
Looking for the printable version of this checklist? Download it below — organised by category and ready to print:
THE ESSENTIAL BABY SHOPPING GUIDE