Newborn checklist

Shopping for your baby can be rather overwhelming - there is so much attractive baby equipment to choose from that making a decision on the items that would be most suitable for you and your lifestyle can be difficult. You may find it helpful to talk to other mums about the more expensive products you'll need to buy, such as a pram and a car seat, to find out what they recommend.
Before you go shopping take a look at the checklist on this page and then, if you can, compare prices on some of the nursery equipment websites. Even if you decide to order online, it's a good idea to visit a nursery shop before you buy. Specialist stores have advisers who will be able  to talk you through the benefits of different products and help you select the ones that are right for you.


Clothing

• 8 undershirts or onesies (mix of short-sleeve and long-sleeve)
• 5 nightgowns (for use until the cord falls off)
• 8 one-piece stretchy sleepers (go for ones with zippers; new moms swear by them!)
• 5 pairs of pants
• 2 newborn hats
• 8 pairs of socks or booties, to wear with nightgowns and outfits
• 2 pairs of scratch mittens, to keep baby from scratching his face
• 2 cardigans or jackets, more in winter
• Bunting bag or snowsuit for winter baby
• Laundry detergent for infants
• 4 outfits for dressing up (optional)

Diapering
If you are using re-usable cloth diapers:

• Several dozen (4 or 5) cloth or re-usable diapers
• 8 waterproof covers
• 1 diaper pail
• Changing pad
• Baby ointment or other barrier cream to prevent rash
• Snaps, Velcro or safety pins to secure re-usable diapers
• Disposable wipes or a couple dozen washcloths for cleaning baby's bottom

If you are using disposable diapers:

• Two boxes of newborn-size diapers (it's better not to buy too many in advance in case your baby is large or grows quickly)
• 1 diaper pail
• Changing pad
• Baby ointment or barrier cream to prevent rash
• Disposable wipes or a couple dozen washcloths for cleaning baby's bottom

Other stuff:

• Cot (plus mattress, sheets and blankets)
• Car seat
• Pram/buggy/travel system
• Bottles/teats/bottle brush (only needed if not breastfeeding)
• Nursing bra and breast pads 
• Loads of bibs
• Plenty of towels/ flannels/ muslin squares (for bathing and dribbles!)
• Loads of kitchen roll and cotton wool pads
• Brush and comb