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Figuring out what to buy for your newborn can be a daunting task. From thermometers to special socks, here is a simple guide to some of the important items to care for your baby.
Thermometers
Accurate temperature measurement is critical in infants under 3 months of age. Making sure to use reliable thermometers for your baby is really important. It’s a very good way of checking that your newborn isn’t feeling unwell or running a fever.
A Pediatric Digital Thermometer
Sejoy Infrared Forehead Thermometer DET-306
A Bath Thermometer
Floating Giraffe Bath thermometer
A Room Thermometer
Milk and Nursing
Microwave steriliser
Steam Microwave Sterilisers can kill viruses and up to 99.9% of bacteria with no chemicals or rinsing required. Steam also gets into the harder to reach areas that may still hold lingering bacteria after being washed. This protects your baby and saves you time!
Tommee Tippee Micro-Steam Microwave Steriliser
Mam Bottles
I used Mam Bottles as they are anti-colic and self sterilising. The shape of the teat also mimics a nipple for a more familiar experience for the baby.
Nursing pyjamas
It is worth getting specific nursing pyjamas if you are breastfeeding as they make the night feeding process a lot simpler. Loads of brands do lovely nursing pyjamas, here are a few to get you started!
I used The Nancy – Mumma Loungewear and they were amazing!
Nipple Pads
I would recommend washable nipple pads as they tend to be more comfortable, as well as being more sustainable. Jubblies has a fantastic range of reusable, washable bamboo breast pads. Although Medela Disposable Breast Pads are not reusable, they are particularly good for heavier leaking, especially soon after giving birth.
Travelling
Car seat
The 360 Joie is what I went for since it swivels and saves your back when in tight car parking spaces!
Pram
I would recommend a three-wheeler since they are easier to push. We went for the Baby Jogger.
A Baby Carrier
You can get loads of different styles of baby carriers that can hold your baby on your back, side or front, depending on your preference. Baby Carriers are great for encouraging bonding with your baby, as well as comforting them by maintaining physical contact.
If you are getting one for your baby, check that it is suitable for use with your newborn!
Ergobaby Omni 360 Baby Carrier All-In One Cool Air Mesh
Car Mirror
Royal Rascals Lockable Baby Car Mirror
A Sun Shade
During the summer months, it is worth having a sunshade for your pram to protect your baby.
Baby Clothing
Changing table
Save your back! We changed on the bed or the floor and our backs suffered. I would definitely get a changing table at standing height if you can.
ANYDAY Elementary Changing Table, White Obaby Maya Changing Unit
Baby clothes
Depending on what time of year your baby is born, you’ll need a range of vests, sleepsuits, hats, jumpers and pramsuits to get started.
Check out our blog on choosing baby clothes for more information!
Sleep
We used the Tutti Bambini next to me crib. Some cots have adjustable mattress heights or a side rail that can dropdown. These features make it easier to get your baby in and out of the cot. Once you have your cot, it is crucial that you get the right size and type of mattress. Which has a comprehensive guide on Cot mattress and baby bedding safety.
Dimmable touch lamp for the nursery.
In the middle of the night, you don’t really want a full-on lamp. You want a soft light that doesn’t wake you or the baby up too much. You’ll also want one which you touch to turn on rather than fiddling around trying to find the switch. So we have a lamp which you touch to turn on, it has three settings and with each touch gets brighter.
Baby blanket
Make sure to get a cellular blanket as they keep your baby warm but allow airflow – for when your baby pulls it over their face. This means it is a far safer option than standard blankets.
Claire de Lune Soft Cotton Cellular Pram Blanket
Bathtime and Wellbeing
Baby bath seat
The Angelcare Soft Touch Baby Bath Support can be used from birth up to 6 months of age.
The BabyDam Orbital Bath Seat can be used at 5 months +
Muslin Squares
People tend to get white muslin squares – I went for for bright colours so they are easier to find. We use these Bright Bots Unisex Combo Muslin Squares.
Cotton Wool
It is recommended to use cotton wool and water rather than wet wipes due to their sensitive skin when born.
Baby Nail File
I would recommend the Baby Nails New Baby Pack as it is suitable from birth onwards and has been tested for safety from 0+ months. It is a filing system invented by a British Mum that was struggling to care for her baby’s nails.