The Ultimate New Baby Shopping List: What You Actually Need (and What You Don’t)

The Ultimate New Baby Shopping List: What You Actually Need (and What You Don’t)

Preparing for a new baby is one of the most exciting — and overwhelming — parts of pregnancy. From tiny clothes to bottles and bassinets, the list seems endless. But the truth is, you don’t need everything.

To help you feel calm, confident, and ready, here’s a realistic new baby shopping list — all the essentials you’ll actually use (plus a few nice-to-haves if you want to make life a little easier).

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🏠 Baby Essentials for Home

👶 Sleep & Nursery

Your newborn will sleep a lot — though not always when you’d like! Create a safe, cozy space for rest.
Must-haves:

• Moses basket, cot, or bedside crib (with firm, flat mattress)

• 2–3 fitted sheets

• 2–3 baby blankets (lightweight, breathable cotton or muslin)

• Baby monitor 

• Room thermometer

💡 Tip: Keep the nursery simple — you’ll spend the first few months mostly in your bedroom anyway.

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🧺 Nappy Changing

You’ll change around 10–12 nappies a day in the early weeks, so preparation is key.
Must-haves:

• Newborn nappies (or reusable cloth nappies)

• Baby wipes or cotton wool & warm water

• Nappy cream

• Changing mat

• Nappy bin or wet bag for reusable nappies

🌿 Optional: Portable changing mat for on-the-go changes.

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🍼 Feeding

Whether you’re breastfeeding, pumping, or formula-feeding — having the right setup makes a world of difference.
If breastfeeding:

• Nursing bras & breast pads

• Nipple cream

• Breast pump (manual or electric)

• Milk storage bags or containers

• Muslin cloths (you’ll need lots of these!)

If formula feeding:

• Bottles & teats (4–6 to start)

• Steriliser (microwave, steam, or cold water)

• Bottle brush

• Formula milk (always follow your midwife or health visitor’s advice)

💊 Don’t forget: If you’re breastfeeding, keep your postnatal supplements handy to support energy, recovery, and milk production — like The Mom Club’s Breastfeeding & 4th Trimester formulas.

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🧼 Baby Bathing & Care

Newborn skin is delicate, so less is more.
Must-haves:

• Baby bath or sink insert

• Gentle baby wash (unscented)

• Soft washcloths

• Hooded baby towel

• Baby brush or comb

• Nail scissors or emery board

• Baby thermometer

💧 Tip: Babies only need a few baths a week at first — daily isn’t necessary!

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👕 Baby Clothes

It’s tempting to buy every cute outfit — but babies grow fast and live in comfy basics.
Essentials:

• 6–8 sleepsuits (with zip or poppers)

• 6–8 bodysuits (short or long sleeve)

• 2 hats (soft, cotton)

• 4 pairs of socks or booties

• 2–3 cardigans or jumpers (depending on season)

• Scratch mittens

• 1 going-home outfit

🧺 Tip: Choose soft, breathable fabrics like cotton, and wash everything in fragrance-free detergent before baby arrives.

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🚗 Out & About

Getting out of the house with a newborn can feel like an expedition — but having the right gear makes it easier.
Must-haves:

• Car seat (Group 0+ suitable from birth — check it’s installed correctly!)

• Pram or travel system

• Baby carrier or wrap

• Changing bag stocked with nappies, wipes, spare clothes, and a muslin

☀️ Optional: Pram rain cover and sunshade depending on the season.

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💛 For You (The New Mum Essentials)

You’ve just done something extraordinary — so don’t forget to look after yourself too.
Essentials:

• Maternity pads

• Postpartum underwear or disposable briefs

• Nipple balm

• Comfortable pyjamas & loungewear

• Peri bottle (for gentle cleaning after birth)

• Water bottle (hydration is key, especially if breastfeeding)

• Healthy snacks

• The Mom Club’s 4th Trimester Support Supplement — to restore nutrients, balance hormones, and help you feel like yourself again 💊

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🛍️ Nice-to-Haves (If You Want to Treat Yourself)

• White noise machine

• Swaddle wraps

• Baby bouncer or rocker

• Nightlight for night feeds

• Soft play mat for tummy time