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Ah, becoming a mum for the first time. There’s a lot to look forward to—those tiny baby cuddles, the adorable baby giggles, and the heartwarming moments that make it all worth it. But then there’s the “baby prep” phase, and let’s be honest: it can feel like you’re getting ready for a tiny human apocalypse. What do you actually need? Is there a list of essentials that won’t bankrupt you or overwhelm your soon-to-be overstuffed nursery?
Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Here’s a list of essentials that every first-time mum needs—plus a sprinkle of humor to remind you that it’s okay if you don’t have it all together (no one does).
1. The Cot (or Crib, or whatever you want to call it)
You need something for the baby to sleep in, right?
Yes, the cot (or crib, or bassinet, or Moses basket… there’s a lot of options, and let’s be real, the baby will probably sleep in your arms for the first month anyway). But seriously, when you do manage to get them to sleep in their own bed, this is where they’ll spend a lot of their time. So make sure it’s sturdy and safe. Bonus points if it’s cute enough that you want to take a hundred pictures of your baby snoozing (don’t act like you won’t).
Essential Tip: A good mattress and mattress protector is a must. Babies sleep a lot, so give them somewhere comfy to do it.
2. Nappies, Nappies, and More Nappies
Spoiler alert: You’ll need more than you think.
I know, I know, it seems like the obvious choice. But you’ll probably need a small mountain of diapers—like, you’ll never look at a diaper aisle the same way again. Whether you go disposable or cloth (we’ll leave that debate to the parenting experts), stock up. And then, when you think you have enough, buy a few more packs. Trust me.
Essential Tip: Get a diaper bag that can double as a life-saving survival kit. You’ll need it.
3. Baby Clothes (But Not Too Many)
Tiny clothes are adorable—but don’t get carried away.
The baby clothes section is a dangerous place. It’s full of adorable onesies, tiny socks that will mysteriously disappear, and hats that are basically an Instagram-worthy accessory for your baby. But here’s the thing: babies grow faster than you can say “Sleep-deprived mom.” So, go easy on the newborn-sized clothes. Get a few pieces in larger sizes, and remember: it’s not about quantity, it’s about comfort. Oh, and remember those stretchy onesies with buttons at the bottom — they’re going to be your best friend in Summer and Winter!
Essential Tip: Get 8-10 onesies (they can be bought in packs of 5) and make sure you’re prepared for lots of spit-ups. Trust me.
4. Baby Bottles (Even if You’re Breastfeeding)
Because, yes, sometimes the baby will take a bottle, too.
Even if you’re planning on breastfeeding, it’s a good idea to have a few baby bottles on hand. I get it – with my first I was so keen to try to breastfeed (just for the whole experience), but then he wasn’t getting enough milk, so that plan went straight out the window with the bottles coming straight out of the cupboard! I have friends who introduced bottle feeding for a variety of reasons – pump, travel, rest (happy to share the 3am feed!), or simply comp feeding to top the baby up. I had for each of mine one of each of the two main shapes of bottle nipples – natural – shaped similar to a breast for baby to use their natural rhythm and the anti-colic. I don’t remember a preference, but I do remember that feeling of a happy baby after a feed!
Essential Tip: Don’t forget bottle sterilizers. I mean, the last thing you want is a tiny little germ factory living in your bottles. Also, throw in a bottle warmer while you’re at it. Because babies get hangry. And quickly.
5. Baby Wipes (A Whole Bunch)
Because your life will be full of messes. So many messes.
You can never have too many baby wipes. Seriously, you’ll need them for everything: wiping up messes, cleaning hands, cleaning faces, and sometimes, for wiping up… things that you don’t even want to talk about. Always keep a pack in your bag, car, and nursery. Trust me on this one.
Essential Tip: You’ll probably go through a lot of wipes in the first few weeks. So just keep a stash—like, everywhere. And definitely inside your portable changing pad!
6. A Baby Carrier or Sling
Because holding a baby all day can be a workout. And you’ll need your hands free.
A good baby carrier is your ticket to freedom (or at least, the illusion of it). You’ll be able to hold your baby while getting stuff done—like, you know, eating a sandwich with one hand or answering emails (okay, we’re dreaming, but you get it). Plus, baby carriers are super cozy, and babies love being snuggled up close to you.
I had two types with my boys – the Ergobaby Omni 360 All-In-One was amazing for both the baby and my back! Easy to put on and easy to adjust everything!
My spare baby carrier (my MIL loved this) was the Mother’s Choice Cosy Carrier – she found it much easier and loved taking my youngest shopping in it, or whilst she walked with another grandson to the park.
Another option (which is great for when they’re getting bigger) is the Beideli Baby Carrier with 2 Bibs, 6 in 1 Baby Hip Carrier. The bottom section is like a seat and support the M-position, which is good for baby’s hips, and you can wear it either on the front or the side for the really short trips and for when they get older and just need to be carried.
Essential Tip: Don’t get one that looks too complicated. If it requires a manual, it’s probably not the right one.
7. A Swaddle Blanket (Or 10)
Babies love being swaddled. You’ll love the fact that they sleep longer when they are.
Swaddling is like wrapping your baby in a cozy burrito. It makes them feel secure and helps them sleep longer (hallelujah!). Buy a few soft, breathable blankets and learn the art of swaddling. Don’t stress, YouTube tutorials exist for a reason. And of course, there are always these game-changers: the Baby Swaddle Wrap with Zipper(!) or the Swaddle Up – these are really popular and come in different “TOG”s (Thermal Overall Grade) and where you choose the size based on the baby’s weight, not their age.
Essential Tip: Keep a few extra on hand—because babies are unpredictable, and sometimes swaddles get very messy.
8. Pacifiers
Because sometimes, babies just need something to suck on.
I know, some parents are all, “No pacifiers, we’re going natural!” But let’s face it—sometimes a pacifier is just what you need to survive that 3 am meltdown. They’re handy for soothing babies and sometimes help them fall asleep. After finally, completely getting rid of dummies this last year, I’m possibly have PTSD, so would suggest not to overdo it. But at the time, I had to sleep because I had to work, soooo… I guess we just really choose which year we want to lose sleep.
Essential Tip: Get a couple of different kinds. You’ll quickly learn which one your baby prefers. (Or they’ll refuse all of them, and there’ll be something else they prefer.)
9. A Baby Monitor
For those moments when you need to hear your baby’s every little sound.
A baby monitor is essential for those naps when you’re trying to do literally anything but stare at your baby. It’ll give you peace of mind while your little one snoozes. Plus, many models now come with features like temperature sensors, night vision, and the ability to soothe your baby remotely with a lullaby (because, why not?).
Our first baby monitor was the VTech full colour and tilt. Unfortunately our second son showed us it was not water-proof. In case we were wondering.
Another option is the Owlet Smart Sock with the monitor/app, camera and the smart socks (for up to ~18 months!). You can receive video clips when sound, motion or crying are detected.
Essential Tip: Test the monitor setup before baby arrives. You’ll thank me when you’re too exhausted to figure out how to make it work in the middle of the night.
10. The best breastfeeding chair
We had a rule: whoever had the baby had priority over the breastfeeding chair. We had a swivelling, glider chair and ottoman. There was nothing like it! Easy and so comfortable to sit down and relax in whilst feeding and cuddling the baby. And, you know, they do say that when mum is relaxed and happy, baby will be relaxed and happy. There is you’re reason!
11. A rocker and swing
The geniuses over at Ingenuity have created my (and my sons) absolute favourite piece of baby furniture: the Portable Swing. All 3 of my sons loved this – if I had to have a quick shower and they were unsettled, at one point, I sat it near the doorway so my eldest and I could see each other whilst he swung to music and I washed my hair. This rocker ticked all the boxes – folded slim and neatly, all of the covers were easy to wash and the batteries lasted a reasonable amount of time. My youngest managed to still get his time in it before I eventually gave it away.
12. A Sense of Humor (and a LOT of Patience)
This might not be on the shopping list, but trust me, you’ll need it.
There’s no manual for being a first-time mum, and things won’t always go according to plan. You’ll have days where nothing makes sense, and you might wonder if you’re doing it all wrong (spoiler: you’re not). Laugh at the chaos, ask for help when you need it, and know that you’re doing an amazing job.
Essential Tip: When in doubt, call your mum. She’s been through it. And yes, she probably has some very important advice for you.
Wrapping It Up
There you have it: your first-time mum survival guide, full of the essentials (and some humor to help you through the madness). The truth is, babies don’t need much. What they really need is love, attention, and a few trusty items to make life easier for you. So, relax, stock up on these basics, and get ready for the beautiful (and occasionally chaotic) adventure ahead.
Good luck, mum—you’ve got this!