With so many baby products on the market, it can be hard to know what you really need and what is just a nice extra. Here is a list of items you may find useful for the first year of your baby’s life.

Baby clothes

  • Small babies tend to live in all-in-one suits during their first few months.
  • Babygros or vests can be worn under all-in-ones if it is cold or on their own if it is hot. Short and long-sleeved versions are available for different times of the year.
  • One or two cardigans provide an extra layer of clothing.
  • If it is winter, your baby may need a coat. If you spend a lot of time in the car, choose one that is not too thick, otherwise there is a risk your baby will get too hot.
  • A soft, cosy cap will be essential when the weather is cool. If your baby was premature or the weather in summer is cool, a cotton jersey pull-on hat is also useful.
  • If you choose all-in-one suits that cover your baby’s feet, you will not need socks. They are very fiddly on newborn babies and tend to keep falling off anyway!
  • Cotton gloves prevent your baby from scratching their face. Some babies are born with long fingernails and you should wait until your baby has reached five or six weeks before cutting them. Burp cloths or cotton bibs come in handy to remove spills. You will also need a baby bath, soap, lotion, hooded towels and nappy liners.

Nappies

  • Newborn babies will need their nappies changed 10 to 12 times a day. Buy enough to keep you going for at least the first few days.
  • You will need a changing pad or table, as well as nappy sacks and wet wipes (or cotton wool).
  • If you are planning to use reusable nappies, you will need at least 15 of them. It is a good idea to have a packet of disposable nappies handy too, in case you get behind with the laundry during the early weeks.

Breastfeeding products

  • If you are breastfeeding, you will need nursing bras and breast pads.
  • You may want to use a nursing pillow to give you and your baby support while breastfeeding.
  • Lanolin cream helps with sensitive or dry nipples.
  • Hot/cold gel packs can help soothe sore or cracked nipples.

Breast pump, milk storage and feeding

  • If you choose to express your milk you will need a breast pump.
  • Breast milk storage bags or bottles are needed when using a breast pump.
  • To feed expressed milk to the baby, you should use a baby bottle. Calma by Medela may be the perfect option.
  • For cleaning bottles, teats and all parts that come into contact with your breasts, your breast milk or your baby’s mouth, sanitising is vital.

Feeding after six months

  • Bowls, baby utensils, sippy cups, bibs and a high chair are essential equipment for feeding your baby after six months.
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