Baby essentials checklist: what you really need

The excitement about a baby is huge – and with it often comes uncertainty: what do I really need? Lists online are endlessly long and seem to want you to buy half the baby shop. We take a different approach here. This checklist draws an honest line between what you need from the start and what can comfortably wait until your baby arrives and you’ve found your own rhythm.

One principle from the outset: less is more. Babies grow quickly, and much of what’s considered essential often ends up unused in the cupboard. Go for a few high-quality pieces made from natural materials that can accompany multiple children, rather than buying in large quantities.

Clothing for the first weeks

Newborns grow incredibly fast in the first few months – they often jump to the next size after just three or four weeks. So don’t buy too much in size 50/56. As a rough guide for the early days, you’ll need:

• 6 to 8 bodysuits (mix of short and long sleeve) – the foundation under every outfit
• 5 to 6 babygrows or all-in-ones
• 2 to 3 warm tops or cardigans to layer over
• 2 hats (depending on the season)
• several pairs of socks
• 1 to 2 sleeping bags in the right size

When it comes to clothing, it’s worth looking at the materials. Organic cotton and fine merino wool sit gently on sensitive baby skin without harmful finishes. Our bodysuits and the full newborn collection have been chosen with exactly that in mind.

Sleeping

Your baby will spend most of their time sleeping, so it’s worth prioritising safety and good materials here. What you need:

• a bedside crib or cot with a firm mattress
• 2 to 3 fitted sheets
• a sleeping bag instead of a blanket or pillow (safer for newborns)
• a few muslin cloths – probably the most versatile helpers of all

For safety reasons, avoid pillows, thick blankets and nest inserts in the cot for the first few months. A cosy baby blanket is still lovely though – for the pram, snuggling on the sofa or out and about.

Nappy changing

Nappy changing equipment can quickly pile up. What you really need at the start:

• a changing mat or pad
• nappies in newborn size (don’t stock up too much – this size is quickly outgrown)
• flannels or wet wipes
• a gentle nappy cream
• muslin cloths to place underneath

A dedicated changing unit is practical but not essential – a safe, easy-to-reach surface works just as well to start with.

Feeding

Whether you breastfeed or use a bottle has a big influence on this list. If breastfeeding, you’ll need little at first: comfortable nursing bras, breast pads and perhaps a nursing pillow. With a bottle, add bottles, teats and a cleaning brush. A dummy is part of many families’ setup too – but doesn’t have to be there from day one. Our selection of dummies will help if you’re thinking about it.

On the go

For your first outings you’ll need a way to transport your baby – a pram, car seat, or a sling or baby carrier. Many parents particularly appreciate babywearing in the first weeks, as it gives closeness and keeps your hands free. A well-packed changing bag rounds out the basics for time away from home.

What can wait

These things are often bought in advance but are rarely needed from day one: a baby monitor, bottle warmer, room heater, play gym, most skincare products and of course toys. Much of this only makes sense once your baby is a few weeks or months old. You can buy it calmly when the time comes – and avoid unnecessary purchases.

The short checklist

If you want to get only the bare essentials, this is enough to start: plenty of bodysuits and babygrows, a safe sleeping space with a sleeping bag, muslin cloths, the basic changing kit, a way to get around and – depending on how you feed – breastfeeding or bottle accessories. Everything else can follow in due course.

The most beautiful things don’t come from any checklist anyway: time, closeness and patience. The rest you’ll gather gradually, in whatever way works for you.

At Littlies + mums you’ll find a carefully chosen selection of sustainable baby essentials – fairly produced and curated with love. Have questions? Come and visit us in our stores in Klingnau and Frick, or get in touch.