List of newborn essentials
Apr 7, 2023
You’ve probably heard it said that babies come with a lot of stuff. But if you’re expecting baby number one, it can be hard to know exactly what you’re going to need – and when!
For the good of your bank balance, you don’t want to splash out on more than you have to. But you also don’t want to be caught short when baby makes their arrival. Here, we’ve pulled together a list of newborn essentials to help.
Basic newborn essentials list
When it comes to newborns, there’s no end of things that you could buy. But rather than going all out to begin with, it can help to start with the basic items needed for a newborn baby.
Once you start browsing, remember you can save any items you like to Moonsift. Not only is this a great way of keeping track of everything until you’re ready to buy them, but you can also share your collections with friends and family as a baby registry. That way, they’ll know exactly what newborn essentials you need when they come to buy you gifts at your baby shower – or, even more excitingly, when baby finally arrives!
Oh, and if you’re wondering when you should start buying baby stuff during pregnancy, or what baby items you should buy first, our dedicated guides will help.
Newborn essential clothes list
Clothes are pretty much as essential as you can get. After all, how else are you going to keep your newborn cosy and warm? As a bare minimum, here’s what you’ll want to get hold of.
Sleepsuits. You’ll need at least six in total, but we’d recommend getting around six in newborn size and another six in 0-3 months (so 12 altogether) as you probably don’t know how big your baby will be yet. Plus, that way you’ll have some extras in case of nappy explosions (particularly handy if you don’t have a tumble drier!).
Vests. Same as above, we’d advise getting around six in newborn size and six in 0-3 months. It can be handy to get a mixture of short-sleeved and long-sleeved vests so you’re covered for all temperatures.
Cardigans. Opt for two lightweight cardigans made from wool or cotton.
Hats. If the weather’s cold, you’ll want a wool or cotton hat for keeping your baby’s head warm when out and about (and for their time in hospital just after they arrive). Or, if it’s hot and the sun is bright, you’ll need a sun hat to keep them comfortable.
Mittens and booties. If it’s cold out, you’ll need to keep your baby’s hands and feet nice and warm. Choose close-knitted patterns so that your baby’s fingers and toes don’t get caught.
Blanket. A cellular blanket or shawl is a must for wrapping your baby in.
Snowsuit. Although it’s not technically essential, a snowsuit or pram suit can be a fantastic addition for when you’re out and about in cold weather. Often, they have built-in hands and feet so that you don’t need to worry about putting on those fiddly mittens and booties.
Feeding essentials for a newborn
In the early days, you’ll spend a lot of time feeding your baby. Here are some feeding essentials to make your life a lot easier.
Muslin squares. Essential for mopping up after your baby. Start with six but you can never have too many!
Breast pads. In the early days, you’ll need these whether you’re breastfeeding or formula feeding. Start with either a big box of disposable breast pads or around six pairs of reusable breast pads (assuming you wash them daily).
If you’re planning on breastfeeding
Nursing bras. Start with around three and purchase more once you’re more comfortable with feeding and know what you like in a nursing bra.
Nipple cream. A must for healing sore nipples.
Breast pump. Breast pumps aren’t strictly essential, but we’d recommend investing in one ready for baby’s arrival. That way, you’ll have it handy in case you need to pump to increase your supply, or you want to give your breasts a break. If you don’t need it in the early days, it’ll be there for later.
Milk storage bags or pots. If you’re planning on pumping and feeding your baby expressed milk from time to time, milk storage bags are a must.
Bottles, teats and a bottle brush. We’d recommend having two bottles on standby, in case breastfeeding doesn’t work out or in the event that you want to feed your baby some expressed milk. Don’t start with more than a couple as you might have to try a few different brands before finding one your baby takes well to.
Steriliser. If you’re planning on pumping, you’ll need a way to sterilise your pump and any bottles you give to your baby. A cold water steriliser is a low-cost option that’s easy to start with if you’re only sterilising the odd item, but you can also get steam units and UV light sterilisers.
If you’re planning on formula feeding
Formula. Start with a couple of large tubs before you buy more, so you can make sure the brand you choose agrees with your baby.
Bottles, teats and a bottle brush. Start with around six bottles if you know you’re going to be bottle feeding, so that you can sterilise a few at a time. You can buy more once you know that you and your baby are happy with the brand you’ve chosen.
Steriliser. You can get self-sterilising bottles, but otherwise, you’ll need a sterilising system. You can choose between a cold water steriliser, a steam unit and a UV sterlisier – or use a combination. They each have their pros and cons but they’ll all ensure your bottles are safe for your baby.
Bibs. We’d recommend getting around six so that you can use a fresh one every day.
What are the top 10 things you need for a baby nursery?
Next up, we have your baby’s nursery! For the first six months, it’s recommended that baby sleeps in the same room as you. So, not all of these items will necessarily belong in the nursery to begin with. However, here are some bits you’ll need.
Cot or moses basket. For the first few months, many parents choose to use a next-to-me cot to go next to their bed – an item that’s frequently saved to Moonsift! However, a moses basket or a full-size cot are both fine too.
Firm mattress. This should fit your baby’s cot or moses basket snugly without leaving spaces around the edges.
Sheets. You’ll need sheets to cover the mattress. We’d recommend getting hold of two or three sets so that you can change them often. Fitted sheets are the most practical but any sheet will do.
Mattress protectors. Your baby’s cot will likely be the recipient of many spills and leaks. Mattress protectors are essential for protecting the mattress. We’d recommend two so that you can wash them between spillages.
Light blankets. Vital for keeping your baby warm while they’re sleeping. When they’re big enough, your newborn can progress into a sleeping bag. Which brings us onto…
Baby sleeping bags. Once your baby is big enough, you can use a baby sleeping bag to keep them warm at night. Check the tog ratings to make sure you choose the right one for your room temperature.
Nursing chair. Once your baby starts sleeping in their nursery, you’ll want to be able to sit with them to feed or comfort them at bedtime and during nighttime wakeups. A rocking chair is ideal, but any comfy seat will work.
White noise machine. While it’s not technically an essential, many parents swear by them. A white noise machine can be a great way to soothe your baby and help them (and you!) to get some valuable sleep.
Baby monitor. The NHS advises keeping your baby in the same room as you while they sleep during both the day and night until they turn 6 months old. However, a baby monitor is vital when you decide to let them sleep in a room without you – whenever that may be. Don’t forget, you can keep track of items like this on Moonsift, so that they’re there for you to buy whenever you need them.
Changing table. A changing table isn’t strictly necessary but can be a godsend for your back during those frequent nappy changes!
What are 5 necessary items for baby care?
Talking of nappy changes, there are some important items that come with them…
Nappies. Newborn babies can get through eight to 12 nappies a day in the first weeks! So, you’ll want to stock up. If you plan on using reusable nappies from the beginning, we’d recommend getting around 25 to start with (older babies can get away with fewer).
Water wipes. Opt for fragrance and alcohol-free baby wipes so as not to irritate your baby's sensitive skin. If you prefer, you can use reusable wipes or cotton wool and water.
Nappy bags or bin. Nappy bags are an easy way to bag up dirty disposable nappies. Specially designed nappy bins are also great for trapping in smells although they’re not essential.
Changing mat. A changing mat will allow you to catch and easily clean any accidents your baby has while their nappy’s off. Consider putting a towel over it for the first few weeks to keep your baby comfortable while they get used to having their nappy changed.
Barrier cream. Barrier cream is a must-have in case your baby gets a bit sore down there or shows signs of nappy rash.
Newborn essentials list for bathtime
When it comes to bathtime, there are only a few essentials.
Seat or bathtub. You may be able to wash your baby in the sink to begin with, but a seat or baby bathtub to go inside your bath or shower will save your back once they get a bit bigger.
Cotton wool. Cotton wool and water is best for cleaning your baby to begin with, especially if you’re top and tailing. You’ll need a fresh piece for each eye to prevent any stickiness or infection from spreading.
Wash cloths. Handy for wiping your baby down while they’re in the bath. Stock up on four or five.
Thermometer. You can make sure your baby’s bath is a good temperature by checking it with your wrist or elbow. However, a baby bath thermometer might give you extra peace of mind. It should read between 37 and 38 degrees Celsius.
Towels. Hooded baby towels are most practical for drying your baby after a bath, although any towel will do. Get hold of three or four as you can get through them quickly!
The NHS recommends that you avoid using any lotions or products in the bath for at least the first month. However, after this, you might like to use things like bubble bath or shampoo (as long as you make sure they’re gentle enough for your baby’s sensitive skin). Don’t forget you can save products to Moonsift so you can easily find them again when you’re ready to buy.
Health essentials for a newborn baby in the UK
Just like us, babies need the occasional bit of grooming. And if they happen to get sick, you’ll want to be sure you have the right things on hand to help.
Baby nail clippers, scissors or file. Baby nails grow surprisingly fast. Keeping them well-trimmed is important to make sure your baby doesn’t scratch their face.
Thermometer. A thermometer is essential so that you can test your baby for a fever if they show signs of being unwell.
Brush. While not strictly essential, a baby brush is a great way of brushing out cradle cap (and brushing regularly can even help to reduce the chances of it occurring in the first place).
Nasal aspirator. Known less formally as a baby snot extractor, this is a handy tool to have around for when your baby develops their first few colds.
Groegg room thermometer. Although it’s not exactly essential, a room thermometer is a great way to check that the room temperature is suitable for your newborn – and to give you a better idea of how many layers they should be wearing. The Groegg room thermometer is a particularly handy one that changes colour depending on whether the room is too hot or cold.
What items do I need for a newborn baby for out and about?
When it comes to getting your newborn baby out of the house, there are a few bigger items you’ll want to get your hands on.
Carseat. This is a legal requirement if your baby is going to be in the car. One that’s part of a travel system can be handy so that you can clip it into your pram chassis without waking your baby up to get them out of the car.
Pram. For the first six months or so, your baby should be able to lie flat in the pram, so you’ll want one that has a bassinet. A pram that’s part of a travel system will allow you to switch the bassinet for a pushchair-style seat once your baby is big enough.
Carrier or sling. Baby carriers or slings can be useful if you want to take your baby places that aren’t pram-friendly. They can also be handy for in the home so that you can do chores without putting your baby down.
Nappy bag. You don’t need to buy a specifically-designed nappy bag, but you’ll want to get a bag big enough to pack a spare baby outfit, muslin squares, nappies, wipes, nappy bags, a travel changing mat and bottles and formula (if you’re bottle feeding). That way, you’ll be prepared for any eventuality.
What are the must-haves for a newborn baby at playtime?
Your baby won’t actually need toys from day one – instead, they’ll simply need milk, sleep, comfort and warmth. But you might like to have a few items ready for when they start to stay awake for longer periods of time. Here are a few ideas of things they might enjoy in the early weeks.
Black and white pictures. Your baby’s vision will be limited to start with but they’ll enjoy looking at high-contrast images.
Baby gym. A baby gym is a great toy that will grow with your baby. In the early days, they’ll enjoy looking up at all the dangling toys. Then, as they get older, they’ll start to hit and grab them.
Baby bouncer. A baby bouncer or rocker can be a useful way to soothe your baby. Make sure you choose one that’s reclined enough for your newborn, rather than one that’s very upright.
Start your newborn essentials shopping list on Moonsift
As you can see, there are tons of items you’ll need to consider when you’re expecting a baby. So, it can be hard to keep track of them all!
Rather than getting elbow-deep in spreadsheets or inundating your partner and friends with links over WhatsApp, there is an easier way. You can simply save items you like to Moonsift, ready for you to buy when you’re ready.
Not only can you save your collections with family and friends, but you can even make them into a baby registry. That way, they can help you tick items off when it comes to your baby shower or, better still, when baby arrives. Simply sign up to get started.
