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What to buy for your newborn baby

There are lots of things you may want to buy before your baby arrives, but you don't need everything straight away.

Start with the essentials and add other items as you need them. Some parents include baby slings or carriers. If you plan to use one, make sure you read the safety advice first.

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Newborn essentials

Not everything needs to be brand new, except the cot mattress and the car seat.

It's worth checking if there is an NCT nearly new sale in your area for second-hand baby clothes, toys and essentials.

Nappies
  • a few packs of newborn disposable or reusable cloth nappies
  • cotton wool or gentle, non-scented, alcohol-free wipes
  • changing mat or towel
  • barrier cream to protect your baby's skin and prevent nappy rash
Baby clothes
  • at least 6 all-in-one sleepsuits or babygrows
  • 4 to 6 vests or bodysuits with poppers that close under the nappy
  • 2 cardigans - choose wool or cotton, rather than nylon
  • a snowsuit if the weather is cold
  • scratch mittens, socks or booties
  • a sun hat for summer, or a wool or cotton hat for the colder months
Bedding
  • a portable crib, carrycot, or moses basket
  • a firm, flat mattress that fits snugly, leaving no gaps
  • waterproof mattress cover
  • at least 4 fitted sheets
  • 2 sleeping bags, or sheets and a cellular blanket - do not use duvets or pillows as there is a risk of suffocation
Bathing
  • a baby bath or you can use a washing up bowl
  • towels
Out and about
  • an infant car seat, rear-facing
  • a pushchair with a fully reclining seat so your baby can lie flat
  • a blanket or shawl to wrap your baby in
  • a bag for nappies and other essentials
Breastfeeding
  • nursing bras – try to get measured at around 36 to 38 weeks pregnant
  • breast pads
  • nipple cream
  • a breast pump
  • muslin squares for burping
Formula feeding
  • bottles with teats and caps
  • sterilising equipment, such as a cold-water steriliser, microwave or steam steriliser
  • brushes to clean the bottles and teats
  • formula milk powder or ready-to-feed liquid formula
  • muslin squares for burping

Baby slings and carriers

A baby sling lets you carry your baby close to you while keeping your hands free. They come in different styles, from soft wraps to more structured carriers.

If you decide to use one, it's important to know how to use it safely as a small number of deaths from suffocation have been linked to them.

Using a baby sling safely

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) advises the safest slings or carriers are the ones that hold your baby solidly against your body, in an upright position.

Make sure you can see your baby, that their face is not restricted, and their airways are always clear.

You can use the "TICKS" rule to help keep your baby safe:

T: Tight

I: In view at all times

C: Close enough to kiss

K: Keep chin off the chest

S: Supported back

Read more about sling safety and the "TICKS" rule on the RoSPA website.

Important

Do not breast or bottle feed your baby while they are in a sling or carrier. Take them out of the sling first so they're in a safe feeding position.

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Baby basics

From the essentials of caring for your baby to understanding their sleep, find out all the baby basics you need to know about your newborn.