- The ultimate new-born baby checklist that will help you prepare for when you bring your little one home. Your baby will be here before you know it so make sure you’ve got everything you need.
Feeding
If you are breastfeeding then you don’t need to panic buy any fancy equipment as you won’t really need any. Here are a few necessities you’ll need.
- Lots of bibs
- Burp cloths
- Milk storage bags
- Nursing pillows
- Breast pump
- Breast pads (disposable or washable)
- Nursing bras
- Lotion for sore nipples
If you’re formula feeding:
- Lots of bibs
- Burp cloths
- Bottle brush
- Formula (be sure to check expiry date and whether it is halal)
- Thermal bottle carrier
- Steriliser
Nappy Changing
You can either use reusable cloth nappies or disposable. It’s ideal to have a baby changing mat for both.
For reusable cloth nappies, you’ll need:
- An appropriate amount of reusable nappies
- Waterproof covers
- Changing mat
- Baby ointment or other barrier creams to treat and prevent rashes
- Velcro, snaps or safety pins to secure the nappies
- Disposable wipes or reusable washcloths for when changing your baby’s bottom
If you are using disposable nappies:
- Two or three packs of new-born-size nappies (it’s better not to over buy in case your baby is large or grows quickly)
- Changing mat
- Baby ointment or other barrier creams to treat and prevent rashes
- Disposable wipes or reusable washcloths for when cleaning your baby’s bottom
Clothing
The list for baby clothing is never ending. Don’t stress about overbuying clothes for your new-born as it’s likely you’ll be gifted a bunch and your baby may grow out of them very fast. Some clothing essentials not to forget:
- Undershirts or onesies (mix of short-sleeve and long-sleeve)
- Nightgowns (for use until the cord falls off)
- One-piece stretchy sleepers (go for ones with zippers; it makes changing your new-born ten times easier, new mums swear by them!)
- 2 new-born hats
- 8 pairs of socks or booties
- A few pairs of scratch mittens
- If it’s winter time, don’t forget the cardigans and coats
- 4 going out, dressing up outfits (optional)
- Laundry detergent for babies
Blankets
- 8 receiving blankets or muslins (great as a burp cloth, cover, bedsheet etc)
- 3 large blankets to cover baby when sleeping
Bath time
- 1 plastic infant tub (or use a large dishpan in the sink)
- 12 washcloths, not used on baby’s bottom
- Baby soap or cleanser
- Baby soft-bristle hair brush
- 3 soft-hooded towels
- A few bath toys
Bedtime
You’ll either have the baby in your bed and co-sleep or opt to place your baby in a cot / moses basket.
If you are co-sleeping you’ll need :
- Firm mattress (not a waterbed)
- 4 fitted crib sheets
- 3 waterproof pads to place under baby
- Light comforter (keep away from baby’s head)
- Sleep sack
If you are using a cot/ moses basket:
- Approved cot/ moses basket mattress
- Waterproof mattress covers
- 4 fitted sheets
- 4 light blankets that fit in the cot/ moses basket
- Sleep sack
If you’re on a budget, you may find the difference between necessities and nice-to-have items difficult. We’ve put together a list to help you narrow down your babies must-haves and indulgences.
Necessities:
- Approved car seat (if you have a car)
- Stroller that reclines so your baby can lie flat
- Nail clippers or scissors
- Bulb syringe for suctioning mucous
- Baby thermometer
- Eye dropper or medicine spoon
- Medication in case of fever
- Baby monitor
Nice-to-have, handy items:
- Change table (or just use changing mat on top of a dresser or bed)
- Rocking chair for feeding and swaddling
- Playpen
- Sling or baby carrier
- Steam steriliser
- Plastic hangers for closet
- Sunshade for car windows
- 4 dummies (if you choose to use these)
- Rattles and other baby toys
- Night light
Now you’ve got your baby checklist, it’s time for some online ordering or last-minute trips to the store. Have we missed anything? What’s the one thing you couldn’t live without? Let us know in the comments.
