Your essential shopping checklist

Essentials for baby

   Disposable or fitted cloth nappies
   Receiving blankets for warmth and swaddling
   Babybag (once baby is 3 months)
   Bottles (for when you go back to work or for a night-time feed)
    Steriliser (if you plan to use bottles)
    Breast pump (especially if you plan to go back to work)
    Dummy
    Facecloths
    Baby toiletries: Soap-free baby wash, baby lotion, bum cream, sensitive wipes
    Hooded towels
    Burp cloths 
   A digital thermometer, medicine dropper and spoon, nasal aspirator
    Newborn toys (eg. rattles and teethers)

Clothing

    Vests (long or short-sleeve, 4 to 5)
    Babygro’s (4 to 6)
    Beanie (1 or 2)
    Leggings (3-4 pairs)
    Socks or booties (4-6 pairs)
    Jersey (1 or 2 depending on season)
    T-shirts (4-6, short- and long-sleeve)

Essentials for baby’s room

   Bassinet for first 4 months
    Cot, breathable mattress and linen
    Changing table and/or
    Dresser
    Glider or rocking chair
    Baby bath and bath seat
    High chair
    Play mat
    Mobile for stimulation and music
    Nappy bin
    Bumbo seat

Baby transport

    Rear-facing car seat
    Pushchair – preferably a travel system  or baby jogger
    Baby carriers or sling
    Nappy bag

Safety items

    Night light
    Baby monitor
    Baby manicure set
    Plug protectors
    Safety gates

Handy extras

    Digital camera
    Camcorder
    Life insurance
    Will
    Education policy