Must-Have Baby Items for the First 3 Months (and What You Can Skip)
When you’re preparing for a new baby, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer amount of baby products out there. Shops and lists often make you believe you need everything under the sun, but the truth is, your newborn only needs a handful of carefully chosen essentials for those first three months.
This guide breaks down what’s truly necessary, what you can hold off on, and how to simplify your prep with ready-made gift bundles. For a more detailed checklist, see our main article: Newborn Essentials Checklist for First-Time Mums: Peace of Mind through Preparation.
Baby Must-Haves for the First 3 Months
1. Sleepsuits
Zip sleepsuits are lifesavers. They’re cosy, breathable, and make those endless night-time nappy changes much easier. Having 5–7 in rotation means you won’t run out too quickly between washes.
2. Sleepsacks
Loose blankets aren’t safe for newborns, which makes a breathable sleepsack a must-have. With different TOG ratings, you can adjust for warmer days or cooler nights, ensuring your baby is always comfortable.
3. Kimonos
Simple kimonos are easy to slip on and gentle against baby’s skin, perfect for short outings or welcoming visitors at home.
4. Sleeveless Kimonos
Sleeveless kimonos are a breathable option for warmer days, keeping little ones cool without compromising on comfort. Thoughtfully designed, they ensure the baby stays at ease even in humid climates.
5. Bodysuits
Bodysuits are a staple for every newborn wardrobe—soft, versatile, and made for layering. Whether worn alone or paired with other essentials, they provide comfort that lasts all day.
6. Zip Playsuits
Zip playsuits are crafted for fuss-free dressing, with smooth zips that make changes quick and effortless. Practical without losing their charm, they are suitable for both nap time and playtime.
7. Rompers
Rompers bring a touch of elegance to dressier outings while remaining breathable and gentle on delicate skin. Designed for comfort, they allow little ones to look their best while staying at ease throughout the day.
8. Nappy and Changing Supplies
Nappies, wipes, barrier cream, and a portable changing mat are everyday essentials. A second nappy caddy in your living area will save you from running back and forth.
9. Feeding Essentials
If breastfeeding, you’ll want nursing pads and muslin cloth alternatives, while bottle-feeding parents will need sterilised bottles and a brush for cleaning. Regardless of feeding style, stock up on burp cloths and bibs to keep spills under control.
10. Baby Bathing Basics
A gentle baby wash, hooded towel, and soft sponge are more than enough. You don’t need a large baby bath tub—many parents find a simple sink insert or a smaller basin works just fine in the early weeks.
11. Comfortable Sleep Aids
A well-prepared sleep space makes a world of difference for both baby and parents. Consider soft, breathable additions like our bamboo pillow with case and cot sheet. Both are crafted from bamboo for extra softness, helping to reduce irritation on delicate skin and keeping your little one cool and comfortable through the night.
12. Gift Bundles for All-in-One Support
If you’d like to simplify shopping altogether, consider a curated bundle.
Both sets feature newborn essentials crafted from bamboo—soft, breathable, and OEKO-TEX® certified. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or gifting a new mum, these bundles offer a thoughtful and practical solution for the first months.
What You Can Skip (At Least for Now)
- Too Many Outfits: Fancy baby clothes are cute, but in reality, sleepsuits are what your baby will live in for the first few months.
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Expensive Toys: Newborns don’t need much beyond a rattle or soft comforter at this stage.
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Shoes: Babies don’t need shoes until they’re walking. Soft booties or socks are more than enough.
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Large Furniture: Items like high chairs and walkers won’t be used until later, so there’s no need to clutter your space early on.
Final Thoughts
Your newborn’s first three months are about simplicity—feeding, sleeping, and bonding. Focus on versatile essentials and hold off on extras until you know what truly fits your family’s routine.
For more preparation tips, don’t miss on Bringing Baby Home: What to Prepare in the First Week.
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FAQ
How many sleepsuits do I need for a newborn?
Around 5–7 zip sleepsuits are ideal for the first months, as babies often need multiple changes a day.
Are gift bundles worth it for new parents?
Yes, gift bundles save time and money by bringing essentials together, making them perfect for both parents and gift-givers.
What baby products are unnecessary in the first 3 months?
Items like shoes, large furniture, and too many fancy outfits can wait until later stages.