Practical Guide

Preparing for a Newborn

Exciting, emotional, and overwhelming. This guide focuses on the essentials you truly need, helping you feel prepared without overspending.

What You Really Need

Clothing Essentials

  • 6–8 sleepsuits (babygrows)
  • 4–6 vests/bodysuits
  • Socks & scratch mittens
  • Warm cardigan or jumper
  • Hats suitable for season

Tip: Babies grow quickly; avoid buying too many 'newborn' size items.

Sleeping Essentials

  • Cot, crib, or Moses basket
  • Firm, flat mattress (New)
  • 2–3 fitted sheets
  • Cellular blankets

Safety: Always back-to-sleep on a clear mattress. No pillows or soft toys.

Feeding Basics

If Breastfeeding: Nursing bras, breast pads, muslin cloths.
If Bottle-feeding: Bottles, teats, formula milk, sterilising equipment.

Changing & Hygiene

  • Newborn nappies
  • Cotton wool (water only first few days)
  • Nappy cream
  • Changing mat
  • Baby bath or bowl (optional)

Travel & Safety

  • Infant car seat (Essential)
  • Pushchair or pram
  • Baby carrier or sling (Optional)

Note: If you’re travelling home by car (including taxis), you’ll need an infant car seat.

Getting Home Ready

  • Safe sleep space in your room
  • Simple changing area setup
  • Baby clothes washed
  • Batch cook meals for freezer
Printable

Checklists

Save this list to your phone or print it out.

Hospital Bag

For Mum

  • Birth plan & maternity notes
  • Loose, comfy clothes for labour
  • Dressing gown
  • Slippers or flip-flops
  • Nightwear (front-opening for feeding)
  • Loose going-home clothes
  • Big knickers (5–6 pairs)
  • Nursing bras & breast pads
  • Maternity pads (2 packs)
  • Toiletries & lip balm
  • Eye mask (wards can be bright)
  • Towel & your own pillow
  • Fan or water spray
  • Phone & long charging cable
  • Snacks & water bottle
  • Spare bag for washing

For Baby

  • 2–3 sleepsuits
  • 2–3 vests/bodysuits
  • Going-home outfit
  • Hat, scratch mittens & socks
  • Snowsuit or warm layer (if cold)
  • Nappies & cotton wool/wipes
  • Muslin squares
  • Blanket or shawl
  • Car seat (for trip home)

For Birth Partner

  • Change of clothes
  • Toiletries
  • Phone & charger
  • Camera (optional)
  • Snacks & drinks
  • Swimwear (if using birth pool)
  • Any medicines they take
  • Cash for car park/vending

Home Essentials

  • Cot / Moses basket
  • New firm mattress
  • Fitted sheets (2–3)
  • Sleepsuits & vests
  • Nappies & wipes
  • Feeding supplies
  • Muslin cloths
  • Changing mat
  • Baby cellular blanket
  • Thermometer
  • Nappy cream

What hospitals provide can vary by NHS trust — check with your midwife.

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Budget-Friendly Tips

Buy Second-Hand

Clothes and prams are often barely used. Avoid used mattresses/car seats for safety.

Don't Overbuy

Babies grow fast. Start with the basics and only buy more if you actually need it.

Borrow First

Baths, bouncers, and slings are used for a short time. Ask friends if you can borrow.

Needs vs Trends

Your baby doesn't need designer outfits. Practical items often work better.

The First Few Weeks

The early weeks are about adjustment. Feeding may be unpredictable, sleep will come in short stretches, and crying is normal.

There is no "perfect" way to prepare. Having the essentials, a safe environment, and support around you is what matters.

Common Questions

How many baby clothes do I need?
Newborns need less than you expect. Aim for 6–8 sleepsuits and 4–6 vests. This allows for frequent changes without constant washing.
When should I pack my hospital bag?
Aim to have your bag packed by 36–37 weeks. It helps to have it ready by the door or in the car just in case.
Do I really need a pram straight away?
You essentially need a car seat to get home. While a pram is very useful, you can use a baby carrier or sling for walks in the first few weeks if you are spreading the cost.