Newborn Essentials Checklist: 10 Items You Didn’t Know You Needed
Preparing for a new baby can feel like packing for a trip you’ve never taken—with no idea what’s actually going to be useful. While you’ve likely already checked off the obvious things (crib, nappies, baby clothes), it’s the little things that often make the biggest difference.
Here’s a newborn essentials checklist featuring 10 underrated must-haves that new mums swear by—because trust us, these are the items that can save your sleep, sanity, and laundry pile.
1. Zip Sleepsuits (Not Just Any Sleepsuit)
Forget fiddly buttons and poppers. Zip sleepsuits—especially ones with two-way zippers—make night-time nappy changes a breeze. Look for breathable bamboo fabric that’s gentle on delicate skin and ideal for layering.
💡 Related: Learn how to pick the perfect one in our Gift Bundle Guide for New Mums.
2. Fold-Over Mittens and Footies
Scratchy faces and lost baby socks? Avoid both with sleepsuits that have built-in mittens and footies. These keep the baby’s hands and feet covered—without needing to buy extras.
3. Swaddle That Actually Stays On
Many first-time mums are shocked by how much babies wiggle. A soft, stretchy swaddle that keeps baby snug (but not too tight) helps soothe the startle reflex and promotes longer sleep.
4. Burp Cloths That Double as Everything
You’ll use them for spit-up, milk dribbles, makeshift bibs, quick wipe-downs—you name it. Having a stack of absorbent, quick-dry cloths is a game-changer.
5. Sleep Sack with the Right TOG Rating
Your room temp matters more than the weather outside. A 0.3 TOG sleep sack is ideal for warm climates or daytime naps, while 0.5 TOG works best for cooler rooms or night-time sleep.
6. Muslin Blanket (But Make It Bamboo)
Lightweight, breathable, and endlessly versatile—bamboo muslin blankets are softer than cotton and great for everything from tummy time to nursing cover-ups.
7. A ‘Go Bag’ Ready with All the Basics
Trust us: you’ll want a ready-to-go pouch with nappies, a change of clothes, bibs, and wipes at all times. Even for trips to the GP. Even just to the next room.
8. Skin-Friendly Bibs (Not Just for Feeding Time)
Babies drool—a lot. Stock up on ultra-soft, absorbent bibs that won’t irritate baby’s neck. Bonus points if they come in soft tones that match your aesthetic.
9. Washing Machine-Friendly Fabrics
You’ll be washing everything. Often. Prioritise essentials made from materials like bamboo blends that wash well, dry fast, and don’t lose their softness.
10. A Beautifully Curated Gift Bundle
Instead of piecing everything together, let someone (or yourself) gift a thoughtfully pre-packed bundle that includes all of the above. It’s practical, heartfelt, and takes the stress out of shopping.
Explore These Tiny Things Gift Bundles for newborn-ready sets made with love.
Final Thoughts
Sometimes the smallest things make the biggest impact. While big-ticket items are important, it’s these everyday essentials that truly help mums feel more prepared—and a little less overwhelmed.
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FAQ
What do first-time mums forget to buy for their newborn?
Many first-time mums overlook small but essential items like zip sleepsuits, burping cloths, and fold-over mittens. While big items like prams and cots get plenty of attention, it’s often the practical day-to-day pieces—like breathable swaddles and quick-dry muslins—that make all the difference.
How many sleepsuits does a newborn need?
Most newborns go through 3–5 changes a day, so having at least 6–8 sleepsuits on hand is ideal. Opt for zip sleepsuits to make nappy changes quicker and less disruptive—especially during the night.
What is the most useful newborn gift?
One of the most useful gifts for a newborn is a curated gift bundle that includes sleepsuits, swaddles, mittens, and bibs. These practical items get daily use, and bundles save new mums from having to shop for everything separately.
