Essential Items You Need Before You Have Your Baby

Preparing for a new baby is a beautiful journey—but it can also feel overwhelming. With endless advice, baby lists, and product choices, how do you know what’s actually essential?

This guide covers everything you’ll need before your baby arrives—practical, must-have items to help you feel confident and organised. Whether you're a first-time parent or preparing for baby number two, these basics will set you up for success.

Baby Sleep Essentials

A safe, cosy space is the key to peaceful nights (for both of you). Sleep may feel like a distant dream with a newborn, but a few good items can make all the difference.

Moses Basket or Cot

Your baby will need a safe, flat surface to sleep on. In the early days, a Moses basket is a popular choice because it’s compact, portable, and perfect for newborns. Once your little one outgrows it, a cot with a firm mattress will be your go-to for the next couple of years.

Tip: Make sure the mattress meets British safety standards and fits snugly in the cot with no gaps.

Bedding and Sleepwear

Soft, breathable bedding is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2–3 fitted sheets

• Lightweight blankets or sleeping bags (tog-rated for the season)

• Cellular blankets for layering

Avoid duvets and pillows—babies under one should sleep flat and with minimal coverings to reduce the risk of overheating.

Baby Monitor

A reliable baby monitor gives you peace of mind, especially during naps or nighttime sleeps. Choose from simple audio monitors to more advanced video options with temperature sensors and lullabies.

Nappy Changing Essentials

Because you’ll be changing a lot of nappies—be prepared from day one. Nappy changes are a big part of your daily routine with a newborn, so it pays to have the right setup.

Nappies and Wipes

Whether you go with disposables or cloth nappies, stock up ahead of time. You’ll go through about 10–12 changes a day in the beginning.

You’ll also need:

• Fragrance-free baby wipes

• Cotton wool and warm water (recommended for the first weeks)

• Nappy rash cream

Changing Table or Mat

A changing table with storage makes life easier, but a portable changing mat is also great for small spaces or on-the-go use.

Nappy Bin

You’ll thank yourself for investing in a nappy disposal system. These help seal away smells and make clean-up more hygienic.

Feeding Essentials

Whether you’re breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, having the right gear makes feeding time smoother. Every baby is different, and feeding can be a learning curve. Start with the essentials and add to your setup as needed.

Breastfeeding Supplies

If you’re planning to breastfeed, you may need:

• Nursing bras and breast pads

• Breast pump (manual or electric)

• Storage bags or pots for expressed milk

• Nipple cream for soothing any soreness

• Feeding pillow for comfort and support

Bottle Feeding Supplies

If you’re using formula or combining feeding methods, stock up on:

• 6–8 baby bottles (slow-flow teats for newborns)

• Formula milk (if not breastfeeding)

• Bottle brush and steriliser

• Bottle warmer (optional but handy)

Muslin Cloths and Bibs

You’ll need plenty of muslin cloths for spills, winding, and feeding. Soft bib sets are also helpful to keep clothes dry during feeding.

Clothing for Newborns

Tiny clothes, big comfort—here’s what to dress your baby in. Newborns don’t need a massive wardrobe, but they do need soft, easy-to-change outfits.

Baby Clothes Checklist

Aim for:

• 6–8 bodysuits (vests) with poppers

• 6–8 sleepsuits with built-in mittens

• 2–3 cardigans or jumpers

• 2–3 hats (cotton for indoors, warmer for outside)

• Scratch mittens (optional—many sleepsuits include them)

• Socks or booties

Choose cotton fabrics and go for newborn or up to 1-month sizes, depending on your baby’s expected weight.

Bathing and Baby Care

Bath time and baby skincare made simple. Newborns don’t need daily baths, but it helps to have the essentials ready.

Baby Bath Basics

You’ll need:

• A baby bath or bath support

• Soft towels or hooded baby towels

• Gentle, fragrance-free baby wash

• Soft washcloths or sponges

Tip: Keep the room warm and have everything you need within reach before you start the bath.

Grooming and Health

It’s also handy to have:

• Baby brush and comb

• Nail clippers or emery board

• Digital thermometer

• Saline nasal drops (for stuffy noses)

• Infant paracetamol (for later, once advised by a doctor)

Travel Essentials for Baby

From hospital trips to first outings—here’s what you’ll need on the move. Getting out and about with your baby means having the right gear to keep them safe and comfortable.

Car Seat

This is a non-negotiable if you have a car. Choose a Group 0+ rear-facing car seat suitable for newborns, and make sure it's correctly fitted before baby arrives.

Reminder: You’ll need a car seat just to bring your baby home from the hospital.

Pram, Pushchair or Travel System

A newborn-friendly pram or travel system with a lie-flat seat or carrycot is essential. Some systems include a detachable car seat and are perfect for easy transitions.

Look for:

• Adjustable handle height

• Good suspension

• Easy fold and storage features

Baby Carrier or Sling

A baby wrap or carrier keeps your hands free and helps with bonding. It’s also ideal for quick errands or navigating crowded areas.

Hospital Bag Must-Haves

Pack these essentials well before your due date

Having your hospital bag packed by around 36 weeks gives you peace of mind. Here’s what to include:

For Baby

• 2–3 sleepsuits and bodysuits

• Hat and socks

• Nappies and wipes

• Blanket or wrap

• Going-home outfit

For Mum

• Maternity notes

• Nightdresses and dressing gown

• Maternity pads and toiletries

• Nursing bras and breast pads

• Snacks, charger, and water bottle

Extras That Make Life Easier

Not strictly essential—but very handy in the early days. Some items aren’t absolutely necessary but can be game-changers for your routine.

White Noise Machine

Helps soothe your baby to sleep by mimicking the sound of the womb.

Baby Bouncer or Swing

Gives you a safe place to put baby down during the day.

Room Thermometer

Helps you maintain the ideal temperature (16–20°C) in your baby’s room.

Night Light

Perfect for those middle-of-the-night feeds or nappy changes without fully waking the baby.

Staying Organised Before Baby Arrives

One final tip—prep your space and your mindset. Before baby arrives, take time to organise your home:

• Wash and fold baby clothes

• Sterilise bottles and dummies

• Set up sleeping and changing stations

• Stock up on easy meals and snacks

If you’ve got older siblings, get them involved in preparing for their new brother or sister—it helps the whole family adjust.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I start buying baby items?

It’s a good idea to begin shopping for essentials during your second trimester. By 28–32 weeks, try to have all the major items like a car seat, cot, and baby clothes ready.

How many clothes does a newborn need?

Start with around 6–8 bodysuits and sleepsuits. Babies often need multiple changes a day due to nappy leaks or spit-ups, so having a few extras is helpful.

Do I need a baby monitor if my baby sleeps in the same room?

For the first 6 months, your baby should sleep in the same room as you. A monitor becomes useful when they nap in another room or move to their own nursery.

Do I need to buy everything brand new?

Not always. Some items like clothing, blankets, and toys can be passed down or bought second-hand. However, car seats, mattresses, and breast pumps should always be bought new for safety and hygiene reasons.

Conclusion

There’s no need to buy everything at once. Start with the basics, and you can always add to your setup as you learn what works for you and your baby.

At Bambinos & Beyond, we help new parents feel ready and reassured. From travel systems to baby clothing and feeding accessories, our wide selection has everything you need—all in one place. We’re always happy to help you prepare for the journey ahead.