Newborn Essentials Checklist: What to Buy and What to Skip

Preparing for a baby makes parents want to buy everything. Most families find that a small set of well-chosen items is enough for the first months. Here is a practical checklist, followed by smart ways to save.

Clothing

• 6 to 8 bodysuits, short and long sleeve according to the season
• 5 to 6 sleepsuits with front zips or snaps, which are easier at night
• 3 to 4 hats and several pairs of socks or booties
• Soft muslin cloths and swaddles

Newborns outgrow clothes quickly, so avoid buying many in the smallest size. Cotton and tag-free fabrics are gentler on the skin.

Sleep

• A cot or bassinet with a firm, fitted mattress
• Two or three fitted sheets
• Light blankets or sleep sacks, depending on room temperature

Follow the safe-sleep advice of your paediatrician, and avoid extras in the cot such as pillows and bumpers.

Feeding

• Breastfeeding: nursing pillow, nursing bras, breast pads, a pump if advised
• Bottle feeding: 4 to 6 bottles, a brush, a steriliser and formula recommended by your doctor
• Bibs and burp cloths

Diapering and bathing

• Diapers in newborn size, but do not stock up before you know what fits
• Wipes or cotton and water, plus a changing mat
• Baby bath, soft towels, gentle wash and moisturiser
• Nail clippers or a file made for babies, and a thermometer

Going out

• A car seat that is correctly fitted and suited to your car, which is essential
• A stroller or carrier
• A changing bag with a spare outfit

What to skip at first

• Large stocks of tiny sizes
• Many toys, since babies need very few
• Wipe warmers and other gadgets
• Gifts you may receive from family, so ask relatives before buying

Where to shop and our codes

• FirstCry: codes SHON (Saudi Arabia) and BF99 (UAE) give 10% for new and existing customers. They exclude diapers, wipes and Dyson.
• Mothercare: code VJ35L gives 5% off.
• MyBaby: a Saudi store; code B25 gives 10% off, up to SAR 100.

Because FirstCry excludes diapers and wipes, buy those from another store or in-store, and use the code for clothes, bottles, bath items and gear.

Saving tips

1. Make a list and shop from it once, in the seventh month or so.
2. Buy big safety items new, and consider borrowing or reusing clothes.
3. Check each store's return policy for unopened items.
4. Wash all clothes before use.
5. Compare totals, including delivery, between stores.

Keep your hospital bag ready from around the eighth month, and leave space on the list for things you only discover once the baby arrives.

Codes, discounts and terms can change at any time. Always check the store's terms at checkout before you pay.