When you’re preparing for your baby’s arrival, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Shops, websites, and social media are full of lists telling you what’s “essential”, but do you really need all of it? The truth is, during those first 30 days, babies need far less than the baby industry would have you believe.
What matters most are the basics: safety, feeding, and comfort. Everything else is either optional or can wait until your baby is older. In this guide, we’ll walk through what’s truly essential, what’s nice to have if you want it, and what you can skip for now.
What New Parents Really Need in the First Month
Safe Sleep Essentials
Sleep can feel like the holy grail in those early days, but setting up a safe space is simple:
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A cot, crib, or Moses basket with a firm, flat mattress.
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Fitted sheets that fit snugly and are easy to change. Have a few. Babies tend to spit up or vomit or have nappy blow outs quite regularly. Having a few to rotate can ease the stress.
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No pillows, bumpers, or loose bedding. These aren’t safe for newborns.
A basic baby monitor can be handy, especially if you are having a well deserved shower, but in the first weeks you’ll often keep your baby in the same room as you (as per NHS safe sleep guidelines), so it’s not strictly essential yet.
Feeding Basics
Whether you’re breastfeeding, formula feeding, or a mix, keep it simple:
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Bottles and teats if you’re using formula, plus a steriliser or a way to sterilise them.
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Formula (if not breastfeeding). Don’t stockpile too much as babies’ needs and preferences vary.
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Breast pads and nipple cream for breastfeeding comfort.
- A nursing pillow can be helpful but isn’t a must. It can be a life saver for your back and neck though.
Top Tips:
- You don’t need to buy a breast pump straight away, unless you are planning to express from the beginning.
- It can also be really helpful to have a small amount of formula and a clean bottle at home, even if you’re planning to breastfeed exclusively. This isn’t about “giving up” or “failing” , it’s simply about having a back-up. Sometimes in the middle of the night, breastfeeding can be painful, supply can feel low, or baby may not latch. In those moments, knowing you have another option can take a huge weight off your shoulders.
- Having formula as a safety net doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong. It just gives you breathing space when you need it most. Feeding your baby isn’t about perfection, it’s about nourishment and connection, and however you get there is okay. Fed is best.
- Have a way to contact your local breastfeeding support group. Knowing who (and how) to contact before you get to desperation point is really handy
Clothing and Nappy Essentials
Babies grow quickly, and newborn sizes may be outgrown in just weeks. Stick to the basics:
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6–8 sleepsuits and vests/bodysuits. These are easy to wash and practical for constant changes.
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Hats and scratch mittens (though many sleepsuits have built-in mittens). And remember socks can be great scratch mittens too!
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Plenty of muslin cloths - they’re useful for spills, spit-up, and feeding.
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Nappies and wipes (newborn size to start, but don’t buy boxes and boxes (babies grow fast). Or a supply or reusable nappies and wipes and a place to store them until they are washed.
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A changing mat - portable ones are ideal. A small towel can also be useful, as the changing mats can be cold on little one's backs.
Skip elaborate outfits in the early days. They’re fiddly, uncomfortable for the baby, and usually end up worn once for a photo.
Everyday Comfort Items
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Car seat (non-negotiable if travelling in a car. It’s a legal must).
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Pram or pushchair for outings.
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Baby sling or carrier - brilliant for soothing babies and freeing your hands.
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Basic bath setup - a baby bath is useful but not essential; you can wash your baby in the sink or with a support in the tub.
Parent Self-Care Items
Your needs matter too. In fact, looking after yourself is key to looking after your baby:
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Snacks and a water bottle nearby for late-night feeds.
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Comfortable clothing that’s easy to nurse in if breastfeeding. Loose comfortable bottoms and high waist underwear can be a life saver post caesarian section.
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Postnatal pads or period pants for recovery. Even better if they are put in the freezer!
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A cosy corner with a chair or cushion for feeding sessions.
Remember, small comforts can make those long nights easier.
What You Don’t Really Need (Yet)
Fancy Sleep Gadgets
From rocking pods to sleep positioners, the market is full of devices promising longer stretches of sleep. Many aren’t safe and most aren’t necessary. Your baby simply needs a firm, flat surface and your reassurance.
Too Many Outfits
It’s tempting to stock up on tiny dresses, dungarees, or shoes, but babies are happiest in soft sleepsuits. Save your money (and washing pile) for practical clothes.
Big Toys and Entertainment Gear
Newborns don’t need play gyms, bouncers, or heaps of toys. They’re far more interested in your face, your voice, and cuddles. These items become more useful around 2–3 months.
Over-the-Top Sterilising/Prep Gadgets
Electric prep machines and large steriliser units are handy later, but in the first 30 days, a simple method (like boiling bottles or a basic steriliser) is all you need.
Nice-to-Have Extras (Optional, Not Essential)
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Baby bath - convenient, but not a must if you’re happy using the sink or tub.
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White noise machine - some babies love it, but you can also use an app or household fan.
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Nursing chair or rocker - cosy but any supportive chair works.
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Extra storage baskets/organisers - nice for tidying baby gear but not urgent.
Think of these as “upgrades” you can add if you find you’d benefit from them.
Common Questions
How many nappies will my baby use in a day?
Expect 8–12 changes daily in the newborn stage. It sounds like a lot, and it is! Stock up, but don’t overbuy one size.
Do I need a breast pump straight away?
Not unless you want to express milk immediately. Many parents wait a few weeks to see what works best before buying one.
Is a baby monitor necessary from day one?
Not always. In the early weeks, your baby should sleep in the same room as you, so you may not need one yet.
How many sleepsuits should I buy?
6–8 is usually enough if you do regular laundry. You’ll likely go through 2–3 a day with spit-ups and nappy leaks.
What can I do to prepare for my own recovery?
Stock up on maternity pads, loose clothing, and snacks. Accept offers of help from friends or family - it really does make a difference.
The first 30 days with a newborn are less about stuff and more about support. Babies need warmth, food, and safety - not the mountain of gadgets and gizmos the industry often suggests.
By focusing on the essentials and ignoring the pressure to buy everything at once, you can save money, reduce clutter, and feel less overwhelmed. And remember, if you discover later that you’d benefit from a gadget, shop, or extra, you can always add it as you go.
Parenting isn’t about having the perfect set-up, it’s about being responsive, gentle, and present. Start simple, and trust that you’ll work out what you need along the way. And whatever your feeding journey looks like, always remember: fed is best.