Expecting a newborn baby is exciting, but it can be very overwhelming trying to figure out what you actually need and what can make your life easier once baby comes.
This is my tried and true list of essentials for the newborn phase. From having limited space when expecting my first to what has stood the test of time with baby #2 and #3. This list has been refined through life experience and three very different babies.
Note: this list excludes nappy-ing and feeding as those are personal preference and what works best for you and your baby. This list is also in no particular order.
NUMBER 1 - CLOTHING
Keep clothing comfortable and practical.
Newborns spend most of their time sleeping and you can expect to change them anywhere up to 10-12 times a day. So complicated outfits with lots of buttons and accessories usually create more work than they’re worth.
For most climates, I prefer simple lightweight layers because they are easier to adjust throughout the day.
My Essentials would be:
14 newborn zip up coveralls with footies
14 newborn bodysuits (adjust depending on season - there’s are different sleeve options)
7-14 size 000 singlets
14 size 000 zip up coveralls with footies
14 size 000 bodysuits
All 3 of my babies outgrew newborn clothing by around 6 weeks, so I’d recommend buying a mixture of newborn and 000 sizes rather than investing heavily into just one size.
NUMBER 2 - MUSLIN BLANKETS
I’ve found that muslin blankets are one of the most versatile baby items you can own.
I use mine as:
swaddles
Nursing covers
Pram covers for shade (while ensuring plenty of air flow and monitoring heat)
Emergency clean up cloths or burp cloths
a barrier between a surface and baby (for example in public spaces)
I find 4 to 6 large muslin blankets to be plenty for one baby.
They’re practical while still being a fun way to add colour and personality.
NUMBER 3 - BURP CLOTHS
This is one area where I prioritise practicality over aesthetics.
Two of my three babies had significant reflux and spit up, especially my first.
The small burp cloths sold in many baby stores simply weren’t big or absorbent enough.
Instead, I recommend 30cm x 30cm terry towelling nappies or cloths.
They are incredibly absorbent, provide much better coverage and can simply be thrown in the wash when needed. They may not be the cutest option but they’ve easily been the most useful.
I have found 1or 2 packs of 12 to work for each baby - once we no longer need them as burp cloths they make great rags.
NUMBER 4 - PORTABLE CHANGE MATS
I’ve never owned a change table.
Instead, I keep portable wipeable change mats wherever I regularly change baby.
For me that meant:
beside my bed
living room
Car
Nappy bag
Having multiple mats means I’ve never searching for one or carrying it from one room to another.
NUMBER 5 - NAPPY BAG SYSTEM
I actually keep two nappy bags.
One larger bag stays packed in the car for longer outings, while my smaller “pram bag” comes everywhere with me.
Inside I keep:
2-3 nappies
Travel wipes
Disposable nappy bags
One spare bodysuit or coverall (depending on weather)
A muslin blanket
My wallet
Diary and pen
A small “mum pouch” with personal essentials
A protein bar or easy snack
Breastfeeding can make you surprisingly hungry, so having a snack packed has saved me more times than I can count. I’ve even used it for my two older kids on occasion.
NUMBER 6 - CAR SEAT
This one I recommend you buy new if possible.
Do your research, choose a high quality extended rear-facing convertible seat that suits your vehicle and family, and make sure it’s installed correctly.
NUMBER 7 - PRAM
Everyone has different priorities, but my biggest recommendation is to test how easily you can fold it and steer it with one hand.
Also look for one with a seat that reclines or has a bassinet attachment as newborn lay flat.
Buying one second hand can be a fantastic option if the pram has been looked after well.
NUMBER 8 - PLAY MAT OR BLANKET
You don’t need an elaborate baby activity centre.
A soft blanket or play mat on the floor creates a safe play space for tummy time, movement and play.
Our first two had a play gym.
Our third mostly had a thick blanket on the floor with a handful of baby toys. Their older siblings were always eager to entertain the baby and baby was content just observing the world around them.
NUMBER 9 - A SAFE BABY ZONE
There will be times when you simply need somewhere safe to put baby while you shower, cook or use the bathroom.
As babies grow, this space changes.
For us it looked like:
Bassinet
Portacot
Playpen
Baby-proofed gated area
The exact setup matters less than simply having a safe place where you can confidently put baby down when you need both hands.
NUMBER 10 - BABY CARRIERS
My baby carriers have easily been some of my most-used baby purchases.
I own both a soft wrap-style carrier and a structured carrier, and they’ve each served different purposes.
The wrap carrier is lovely during the newborn stage or for shorter periods around the house. It does take a little practice to learn, but it’s incredibly comfortable once you get the hang of it.
The structured carrier provides more support and has been my favourite for longer walks, outings and as my babies have grown bigger.
If your budget allows, I think having one of each is worthwhile. If not, choose the style that best suits your lifestyle.
Whatever carrier you buy, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, check the weight guidelines and make sure baby is positioned safely.
Prioritising comfort and minimising the stress of managing a whole bunch of baby things meant I was able to focus on recovery and adjusting to having a new little addition to the family. Being selective also meant we were more frugal which was a bonus as well.
