Getting ready for your baby’s arrival is an exciting journey, but it can be hard to know where to start with all the available products. In this blog, I’ll cover the essentials every new or expecting mum in the UK should have on their baby registry. While this guide provides a quick, must-have checklist, I’ll be writing in-depth blogs on specific categories (like feeding and sleep essentials) to help you make more detailed decisions.
Sleep Essentials
Ensuring your baby sleeps safely and soundly is a top priority. Here are the must-haves: I am just sharing a quick buying link for each. However for more options, I’ll be sharing a detailed not for each product category
Moses basket or cot: Choose a comfortable, safe space that meets UK safety standards. Many newborns sleep in a Moses basket before transitioning to a cot, which offers more space as they grow. Look for a firm mattress and breathable bedding to keep your baby comfortable.
Swaddles and sleep sacks: Swaddling can mimic the womb and help soothe your newborn. A sleep sack provides a safer alternative to loose blankets as your baby grows. Opt for light, breathable fabrics to prevent overheating. Also try using a wrap around swaddle with a velcro (makes life a lot easier!). The bottom zip function of Aden + Anais Easy Wrap Swaddle helped make night time changes tearfree!
White noise machine: These devices are great for lulling your baby to sleep by mimicking womb sounds or drowning out household noise, helping them settle faster and sleep longer. Dreamegg White Noise Machine
Feeding Gear
Feeding time, whether you breastfeed or bottle-feed, requires a few key items:
Breast pump: For breastfeeding mums, a pump is invaluable for expressing milk. Choose between electric or manual models depending on your comfort and budget. Within electric, you have the option of a hospital grade one like Spectra Breast Pump or a wearable option like Elvie Pump: Wearable
Bottles and steriliser: Even if breastfeeding, having bottles on hand is useful. Select anti-colic bottles for added comfort and a steriliser to keep everything hygienic. Dr Brown's Anti Colic - 0m+. Steam sterilisers work quickly and kill 99.9% of germs. Tommee Tippee Super Steam Advanced Electric Steriliser
Nursing pillow: Designed to support you during breastfeeding, a nursing pillow can alleviate pressure on your neck and back, making feeding sessions more comfortable. Sharing two premium options with different designs, both of which are great. Boppy Pillow Original Support : Ergonomic Nursing Essentials and MY BREST FRIEND Deluxe Nursing Pillow
Muslin cloths: Stock up on these versatile cloths for burping, wiping spills, or draping over your shoulder. Maliton Muslin Cloths for Baby, 6 Pack Burp Cloths for Baby
Nappy Changing Essentials
Be prepared for frequent nappy changes with these must-haves:
Nappies: Whether you choose disposable or reusable nappies, have plenty ready. Bambo Nature Premium Eco Nappies. There are great cloth nappy options also available. Bambino Mio, All-in-One Reusable Nappy
Wipes and nappy cream: Use sensitive wipes and barrier creams like Bepanthen or Sudocrem to prevent nappy rash. Consider eco-friendly, biodegradable wipes as an environmentally conscious option.
Changing mat: Look for one that's easy to wipe clean and provides a padded surface for your baby’s comfort. Babycurls Deluxe Nappy Changing Mat and Nattou Soft Foam Padded Baby Changing Mat . A portable option - Bambino Mio, On the Move Changing Mat
Nappy bin: For disposable nappy users, a nappy bin with odour-locking features can make a big difference in keeping unpleasant smells under control. Tommee Tippee Twist and Click Advanced Nappy Bin
Health and Safety
Keep your baby safe and healthy with these essential items:
Digital thermometer: A baby-friendly thermometer, such as a forehead or ear thermometer, is essential for checking your baby’s temperature during illness. Braun ThermoScan 7 Ear thermometer - Age Precision Technology
Nail clippers: Baby-specific clippers are needed to trim those tiny nails and prevent your baby from scratching themselves. Manual: Tommee Tippee Essentials Baby Nail Clipper 0m+ or Electric: Tommee Tippee Electric Baby Nail File Trimmer
First aid kit: Prepare a first aid kit that includes essentials like plasters, antiseptic cream, saline drops, and a nasal aspirator to help clear blocked noses. Frida Baby NoseFrida the SnotSucker: Nasal Aspirator for Baby
Travel and Outings
Travelling with a newborn requires safety and comfort on the go:
Car seat: A top priority for any parent, your car seat must meet UK safety standards. Some travel systems include a car seat that clicks directly into your pram, making life on the move simpler.
Pushchair: Choose a pram or pushchair that is lightweight, easy to fold, and suitable from birth. Think about how easily it will fit into your car or navigate narrow streets.
Baby carrier or sling: A baby carrier allows you to keep your baby close while keeping your hands free. Look for one that offers good support for both you and your baby. BabyBjörn Baby Carrier Mini
Clothing
You don’t need a massive wardrobe for your newborn, but a few key pieces are essential:
Bodysuits and sleepsuits: Opt for soft, breathable cotton bodysuits and sleepsuits with easy-access poppers for those constant changes. Remember, babies grow quickly, so buy a mix of newborn and 0-3 month sizes. This two way zipper sleepsuit, although slightly steep in price, is very helpful for night changes. MORI Baby Boys and Girls Clever Sleepsuit in White - Unisex Two Way Zipped Organic Pyjama - Comfortable Toddler Footed Nightwear
Hats, mittens, and socks: Keeping your baby warm is crucial, especially during cooler UK months. Ensure you have a few sets of socks, mittens, and hats to regulate their temperature.
Bath Time Basics
Make bath time safe and enjoyable with these essentials:
Baby bath or support seat: A baby bath or a support seat for your regular bath ensures your baby can bathe safely and comfortably. Skip Hop Moby Smart Sling Newborn Baby Bath Tub,
Towels and washcloths: Soft, hooded towels and gentle washcloths are a must for keeping your baby clean and cosy after baths.
Baby soap and body cream: Use a mild, fragrance-free soap for delicate skin, followed by a baby-friendly body cream to keep their skin soft and hydrated. QV Cream with 10% Glycerin (500g) Rich Protective Moisturiser for Sensitive, Dry Skin, Fragrance Free, Noncomedogenic Body Cream. This product worked wonders for my son and I am using it for him till date
Comfort and Play
Keeping your baby comfortable and stimulated is just as important as feeding and changing them:
Teething Toys: As your baby begins to teethe, having soothing toys on hand will provide much-needed relief from the discomfort. Teething toys designed with different textures and safe, chewable materials can help massage sore gums. Matchstick Monkey, Original Teether & Gel Applicator, Antimicrobial Silicone Teething Toys for Baby, Easy to Grip, BPA free. Some teething toys are also designed to be chilled in the fridge, providing extra comfort.
Rattles: Rattles not only entertain but also help develop motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Look for ones that are easy for little hands to grip and shake, adding sensory stimulation through sound and texture.
Bouncer or swing: A baby bouncer or swing can be a lifesaver when you need to soothe your baby or free your hands for a few moments. Many options include vibration or rocking motions for added comfort. BabyBjörn Bouncer Balance Soft
Play mat: As your baby starts to explore the world through tummy time, a soft play mat with stimulating textures and toys will keep them engaged and support their development. Premium option: Lovevery The Play Gym: Stage-Based and Sustainable Baby Play Mat & Tummy Time Mat . In addition, I do suggest getting M.Y Interlocking Foam Play Mat. These foam mats are very helpful to place around the house and can be used through the toddler stage!
By covering these essentials, you’ll be well-equipped for the early days and months with your newborn. Keep an eye out for our blog posts, where we’ll dive deeper into categories like sleep, feeding, and baby safety, helping you choose the best products for your family’s needs. In the meantime, this guide offers a practical and comprehensive overview of the key items that will make your transition into motherhood smoother.
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