Your honest baby essentials list

When you’re pregnant, it can feel overwhelming with all the checklists and shopping advice for your baby. Keep in mind that many of those lists from shops are designed to make you buy as many (often unnecessary) items as possible. Below you’ll find our practical list of things you really need for the first days and weeks after your baby is born:

• Digital thermometer (preferably one that reads the temperature within 10 seconds)
• Changing mat + cover
• 1 hooded towel (bath cape)
• Nappy bin
• 10 muslin cloths
• Baby bath
• Baby oil or soap-free wash gel
• Crib, cot or co-sleeper (You can also rent one, for example via Tinylibrary)
• 3 fitted sheets
• 3 flat sheets
• 2 blankets (preferably wool or thick cotton)
• 1 pack of size 1 nappies
• Baby wipes or 6 soft washcloths
• Hot-water bottle (metal or electric)
• Pram or stroller (Also available to rent via Tinylibrary)
• Maternity kit (check with your health insurer whether you’ll receive one automatically around 36 weeks, or if you need to purchase it yourself at a pharmacy)
• Baby clothes in size 50 and 56:
  • Rompers – at least 6
  • T-shirts and trousers or all-in-one outfits – at least 6
  • 5 pairs of socks or tights
  • Jacket or cardigan for outdoor use

For clothing sizes, read our article: Baby wardrobe.
You might also enjoy these related blogs:
– What we advise you not to buy
– The 5 best baby purchases
– Buying baby things... what a hassle!