The ultimate baby essentials checklist

Welcoming a new baby is a joyful yet overwhelming experience. From onesies to pram suits, there’s a lot to think about. Keep reading for a baby essentials checklist that covers everything you’ll need for your newborn, including clothing, nursery items, feeding supplies and more.

Before your baby arrives, it's helpful to be stocked up on the basics. Here are the newborn must-haves:

• Baby clothes (bodysuits, sleepsuits, hats, cardigans)

• Nappies (disposable or reusable)

• Baby wipes or cotton wool

• Changing mat

• Blanket or swaddle wraps

• Baby bath or support seat

• Soft baby towels

• Feeding bottles or breastfeeding supplies

• Pram or travel system

• Car seat (group 0+ for newborns)

• Baby monitor

• Baby carrier or sling

• Thermometer

• Scratch mittens and bibs

How many clothes do I need for a newborn?

Wondering how many baby clothes you should buy? Here’s a handy list to help you get just the right number of essentials:

• 6–8 bodysuits and vests: Perfect for layering and everyday wear.

• 6–8 sleepsuits / babygrows: Comfortable for sleeping and daily wear.

• 2–3 cardigans: Ideal for extra warmth, especially in cooler weather.

• 2–3 hats: A soft cotton hat for indoors and a warmer one for going out.

• 1 jacket or pram suit: For outdoor trips, depending on the season.

• 4–6 pairs of scratch mitts: To prevent babies from scratching themselves.

• 10–12 bibs: For feeding time and catching dribbles.

What clothes should a newborn sleep in?

Newborns should sleep in a soft, breathable cotton sleepsuit or babygrow. Avoid overdressing to reduce the risk of overheating – a room thermometer can help maintain the right temperature.

How many sleepsuits does a newborn need?

Plan for 6 to 8 sleepsuits, especially in the early weeks when outfit changes are frequent due to spit-ups and nappy leaks.

How many outfits does a newborn need?

For daily wear and outings, 5 to 7 outfits are generally enough. These can include soft trousers, tops, dresses or all-in-one rompers.

Is a bodysuit good for a newborn?

Yes! Bodysuits are ideal for newborns. They snap at the bottom for easy nappy changes, keep the nappy in place, and provide an extra layer of warmth without riding up.

How many babygrows do I need?

You’ll want at least 6 to 8 babygrows (also known as sleepsuits). These are perfect for day and night wear, offering comfort and convenience. Our easy dress options unzip at the legs, making them ideal for quick nappy changes in the middle of the night.

Baby clothing essentials

Here’s a summary of baby clothing essentials to add to your checklist:

• Short- and long-sleeved bodysuits

• Sleepsuits/babygrows

• Cardigans or jumpers

• Cotton hats

• Socks or booties

• Scratch mittens

• Soft bibs

• Weather-appropriate jacket or snowsuit

Nursery essentials checklist

Set up a safe, comfortable sleep space for your baby with these nursery items:

• Cot or crib with firm mattress

• Fitted cot sheets (2–3)

• Baby monitor

• Changing table or changing mat

• Night light or dim lamp

• Laundry basket

• Room thermometer

• Baby-safe storage for clothes and essentials

Feeding checklist

Whether you’re breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, you’ll need:

• Bottles and teats (4–6)

• Steriliser (electric or cold water)

• Bottle brush

• Breast pump (if breastfeeding)

• Nursing bras and breast pads

• Muslin cloths or burp cloths

• Formula milk (if not breastfeeding)

• Bibs and feeding pillow

Bathtime checklist

Keep your baby clean and comfy with these bath time essentials:

• Baby bath or bath support

• Soft baby towels (hooded are great!)

• Gentle baby wash and shampoo

• Soft sponge or flannel

• Bath thermometer

• Baby lotion or moisturiser

• Soft-bristled baby hairbrush

• Nail clippers or baby nail scissors

Baby sleeping checklist

Help your newborn sleep safely and soundly:

• Moses basket or crib

• Firm, flat mattress

• Fitted sheets (2–3)

• Swaddles or baby sleeping bags

• Baby monitor

• White noise machine (optional)

• Room thermometer

• Night light