Preparing for the arrival of your baby can be daunting, especially when you start drafting that all-important 'to buy' list. Between Google searches, friends' well-meaning recommendations and targeted social media posts - how did Instagram even know you were pregnant?! - the rundown of clothing, (yes, we love a baby boutique too), bathroom cabinet staples and tech you simply have to buy before your baby arrives seems endless, never mind expensive. And you thought sleepless nights would be the tough part.
Whether you're an essentials-only shopper or a sucker for the latest 'it' buy, most of us need a bit of a steer when it comes to deciding what baby must-haves to invest in as that due date draws closer.
Most agree that a pram is a non-negotiable, a baby carrier too, a decent supply of nappies (unless you go down the reusable route), a baby bath, a crib or cotbed, you get the picture. But what about the Owlet Monitor that everyone raves about on TikTok? An electric breast pump? A nursing chair - won't your failsafe sofa do? And to swaddle or not to swaddle? Shopping for your first baby poses quite a conundrum.
To that end, Grazia has come up with the ultimate newborn baby checklist, a guide to help you navigate that baby prep period with a little more know-how. From breast pumps to prams, cribs to car seats, consider this your ultimate buying guide.
Your Newborn Baby Shopping Guide:
Clothing: Sleepsuits with a full zip or poppers, vests (long-sleeved for winter, short-sleeved for summer with poppers that fasten over the nappy), cardigans (wool or cotton), a couple of hats (a sun hat for summer and a warm hat for winter), a snowsuit for pram rides in the winter.
Changing essentials: Multiple packs of newborn-sized disposable nappies, or cloth nappies if you prefer. Cotton wool or gentle fragrance-free, alcohol-free wipes (ideally 99% water wipes) and a barrier cream.
Sleeping essentials: A crib (portable and able to be placed next to your bed), a firm mattress that fits flush to your crib, a waterproof mattress cover, fitted sheets (four), sleeping bags (two) or sheets (to be tucked in at the end and sides of the crib with baby's arms over the top) and breathable cellular blankets.
Bathing essentials: A baby bath and towels.
On-the-go essentials: A baby carrier, a changing bag, a portable changing mat, a pram that allows your newborn to lie down flat, a car seat.
Baby feeding buys: If you intend to breastfeed, a few nursing bras, breast pads, nipple cream, a breast pump. A set of small bottles with stage 1 teats, muslins, formula.
What clothes do I need to buy for a newborn baby?
According to The Baby Academy, your newborn baby's favourite outfit is a vest (long-sleeved in winter, short-sleeved in summer), a babygrow (also known as a sleep suit or a onesie) and a cardigan, depending on the weather. As a rule of thumb, they say that your baby should be wearing one more layer than you would be comfortable wearing. The Baby Academy recommends bringing eight to ten newborn-sized sleepsuits with you if you are planning to give birth in a hospital or birthing suite, as well as eight to ten vests.
Opt for sleepsuits with poppers or zips that run all the way down the body to the leg to make those first few changes as easy as possible. As for sizing, most newborns will be fine with a standard 'Newborn' size, but if you're due to give birth to a relatively large baby bring a few '0-3 months' sizes just in case. The Baby Academy also recommends placing a vest, a sleep suit and a nappy in a separate pouch when packing your hospital bag, to take the guesswork out of that first clothing change.
The likelihood is that your baby will wear sleepsuits, vests (with poppers that close over the nappy) and cardigans for the first six weeks; it's a matter of comfort. The Baby Academy also recommends avoiding tights, dresses or jeans for the most part until your baby is older than six weeks old, and washing all baby clothes in non-bio washing liquid or powder before letting your baby wear them.
As for hats, some hospitals insist on you putting a little hat on your newborn baby before you leave, so it's worth having one or two to hand, especially for outdoor walks in the winter, or sun hats to shield your baby in the summer. The Baby Academy, though, recommends avoiding the wearing of hats inside to stave off overheating.
If your due date falls in winter, consider investing in a snowsuit to keep your baby warm during pram rides.
SHOP: Sleepsuits, vests and cardigans
Moribabymori.com
Made with soft organic cotton and bamboo fabric, Mori is renowned for these Clever Zip Sleepsuits. They not only look beautiful, but they have been designed with your newborn baby's comfort in mind - hence the impressive composition of organic cotton and bamboo fabric. If you think you'll get weary of poppers, you're in luck - the cleverly concealed zips on these sleepsuits make changing a cinch.
Available in Newborn, 0-3 M, 3-6 M, 6-9 M, 9-12 M, 12-18 M, 18-24 M sizes
Pros
- Made from 30% organic cotton and 70% bamboo fabric for ultimate softness
- Two-way zip concealed for safety
- Safety tab on each zip
- Has fold-over scratch mitts
- Can be personalised
Cons
- A pricier option
The Little Tailorwww.johnlewis.com
A soft cotton sleepsuit available in a variety of beautiful prints, all of which feature a full zip to make changes easier.
Available in sizes 0-3 M, 3-6 M, 6-9 M, 9-12 M, 12-18 M, 18-24 M.
Pros
- Made with soft cotton
- Full zip for quick and easy changes.
- Available in a variety of beautiful prints
Cons
- No built-in scratch mitts or covered feet
Mamas & Papaswww.mamasandpapas.com
Made with soft, breathable cotton, these short-sleeved vests are a great buy for summer newborns. Designed with poppers that fix over your baby's nappy, these short-sleeved vests are designed for easy day-to-day dressing under babygrows.
Available in sizes Newborn, Up To 1 M, 0-3 M, 3-6 M, 6-9 M, 9-12 M.
Pros
- Made with 100% cotton
- Features poppers that secure the vest over the nappy
- Available in a variety of prints
- Great value for money
Cons
- Winter newborns may appreciate a longer sleeve for warmth
M&Swww.marksandspencer.com
M&S stocks a great range of pure cotton cardigans, all for around £10 - £12. This particular knitted design features two small buttons at the front and scalloped stitching on the hem and cuffs.
Pros
- Made with 100% cotton
- Breathable
- Easy to wash
- Great value for money
Cons
- Some may prefer a wool design for extra warmth
The Little Tailorwww.selfridges.com
Wrap your newborn up against the cold of the winter months during pram rides with this reversible sherpa pram suit available in cream and tan.
Available in sizes 0-3 M, 3-6 M, 6-9 M, 9-12 M, 12-18 M, 18-24 M.
Pros
- Reversible design
- Hooded and quilted for warmth
- Machine-washable
Cons
- Lighter colourways so not great for muddy days
Seraphinewww.seraphine.com
Available in baby blue, baby pink and cream, these cotton and cashmere mix baby hats are perfect for newborns.
Pros
- Made with an ultra-soft cotton cashmere blend
- Machine-washable
- Lightweight yet warm
- Features a rib fold-over edge
Cons
- Available in one size only
- Likely to be too warm for summer newborns
What do I need to buy for nappy changes before my baby arrives?
Let's start with the changing essentials. According to the NHS, you'll need a few packs of newborn disposable or reusable cloth nappies. The Baby Academy recommends bringing a pack of 20 with you if you plan on giving birth in a birthing unit or hospital. You'll need cotton wool (to be used with water) or gentle (ideally 99% water) and alcohol-free wipes, a changing mat and a barrier cream to prevent nappy rash.
What cots, cribs and bedding do I need to buy before my baby arrives?
As for sleeping, your baby will spend the first few months sleeping in your room, in a crib beside your bed. Invest in a portable crib - whether a Moses basket that you can move around the house during the day, a carrycot or a crib made especially to be placed beside your bed (also known as a next-to-me cot). When you move your baby to the nursery you might want to switch to a cot. Both cribs and cots should come with a flat, firm mattress that, as the NHS states, 'fits snugly, leaving no gaps'.
According to the NHS, you'll also need a waterproof mattress cover, at least four fitted sheets, two sleeping bags or sheets (according to The Baby Academy these should be tucked in over your baby at the sides and end of your crib, with your baby's arms placed over the top), and a cellular blanket. Cellular blankets are lightweight, usually made from naturally breathable materials like cotton or bamboo and made with lots of holes through them to enable air flow and avoid overheating.
What bathtime essentials do I need to buy before my baby arrives?
Bathing-wise, according to The Baby Academy, you should avoid bathing your newborn baby until their umbilical cord has fallen off, which usually takes anywhere between five days and two weeks. After that point, it advises bathing your baby once a week until they are 12 weeks old to avoid stripping their skin of beneficial natural oils and sensitising it.
To that end, don't feel pressured to stock up on baby bath time products until a few months later. Use water only and a gentle, natural emollient like coconut oil at the most. You will need a baby bath, though, and a few towels to wrap your baby up in and dry them. Invest in three or four (you'll have a couple in the wash at a time unless you're unfathomably speedy when it comes to putting on a nappy after their bath). Towels with little hoods work well and stop heat escaping from their heads when they're fresh out of the water.
SHOP: Changing, sleeping and bathing buys
SnuzPodwww.snuz.co.uk
The UK's best-selling bedside crib for good reason, many credit SnuzPods for helping their infant sleep well and stay closer to you. Made especially to sit beside your bed - you can take one side down so you can keep an eye on them - SnuzPods have proved a real hit in recent years.
Pros
- Makes reaching baby easier
- Includes a breathable mattress
- Features a machine-washable mesh liner
- Now includes a panel you can use to gently incline the crib
- Lightweight enough to be lifted off the stand and used around the home
- Available in a variety of colours
Cons
- An investment considering how long it will be used for
Halowww.boots.com
A lightweight bassinet option that can be packed for travel, moved from room to room around the house and positioned next to your bed.
Pros
- Features an easy-lowering bedside wall
- Mesh walls for visibility and breathability
- Legs that slot under most bed designs, bringing you closer to your baby
- Mattress pad included (sheets sold separately)
Cons
- An investment considering how long it will be used for
Stokkewww.stokke.com
The Stoke Sleepi Mini V3 is made for newborn babies through to six-month-old babies, and you can add an extension kit to your order, which will see your child through up until they're five years old.
Pros
- Suitable for 0-6 months
- Optional extension kit
- Lockable swivel wheels for ease of movement
- Adjustable base height
- Available in natural wood, white or hazy grey colours
Cons
- Mattresses, fitted sheets and protected sheets are sold separately
Stokkewww.stokke.com
Your house can constantly feel like it's covered in baby products, so options that can be easily stored away are worth their weight in gold. We think you'll love the Stokke Flexi Bath if you don't have a separate bath in your home or if you'd like to store your baby bath away neatly after bath time is finished. Suitable from birth with the Newborn Support up to the age of four, it has a non-slip base and a clever heat-sensitive plug for peace of mind. A perfect travel option, too, it'll come in handy long after the baby is out of the newborn stage.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Stores away neatly
- Suitable from birth with the Newborn Support
- Available as a standalone tub or bundle
- Heat-sensitive plug
- Also available in an XL version for up to six years old
Cons
- The storage clip can get in the way
- The newborn insert makes it a bit bulkier to store, but it still doesn't take up much space
Nubywww.boots.com
Made especially for newborns, this bath offers the support and grip they need. A soft foam headrest supports your newborn, and there's a built-in seat to stop your baby from sliding. As much support as this offers though, you should never leave your baby unsupervised or not upheld by you in water, even for a minute.
The brand notes that you should never leave your baby alone in the bath and never use this baby bath on an elevated or uneven surface. Always check the water temperature and don't exceed the maximum fill line.
Pros
- Easy-grip handles
- Soft foam headrest to support your newborn
- Built-in seat to stop your baby from sliding
- Anti-slip base
- Good value for money
Cons
- Not the easiest to store
Done by Deerbabymori.com
Changing mats aren't things to get precious over and you may find that you get into the routine of flinging a towel over the top of yours to make cleaning up after each change easier. If you'd like your changing mat to tie into the colour scheme of your nursery, then ranges like these offer plenty of options. Made from soft cotton topped with a water-repellant coating and designed with raised edges to keep your newborn in one place.
Pros
- Water-repellant coating
- Raised edges to keep your newborn in one place
- Available in a variety of attractive designs
- Cover is washable at 40 degrees
Cons
- On the pricier side of the changing mat options available
The White Companywww.thewhitecompany.com
Made with pure hydrocotton - a cotton made to be ultra soft and absorb moisture quickly - these baby towels are real crowd pleasers. They're not a prerequisite, but you really can't beat a set of ears on a baby towel.
Pros
- Absorbs moisturise quickly
- Delightful design
- Available in grey, white, blue and pink
Cons
- More expensive than alternatives on the market
John Lewiswww.johnlewis.com
Available in grey, pink, white and blue, these blankets are made with certified organic cotton and feature a satin trim. Use to tuck your baby into their pram, crib or cot, always keeping their arms out over the top.
Pros
- Made with 100% organic cotton
- Available in grey, pink, blue and white
- Machine-washable at 40 degrees
Cons
- Not suitable for ironing
What prams, carriers and on-the-go essentials do I need to buy before my baby arrives?
One of the first items you should consider buying is a car seat. If you are giving birth in a hospital and you intend on driving there or getting a taxi, you will need a car seat ready for your newborn and the drive home. While hospitals have no legal rights to prevent you from leaving without a car seat, the law in the UK states that infants and children are legally required to travel in a car seat until they are 12 years old or 135cm tall.
You'll also want a baby carrier, something to strap your newborn to you when you are out and about, or even just walking around the house. Many people prefer to use a carrier over a pram during the first month or so back home, while their baby is on the lighter, more compact side. Speaking of prams, there's no denying the freedom a set of wheels can give you and hitting on the perfect one involves interrogating your lifestyle. First of all, as a newborn, your baby will need a pram that allows them to lie flat on their back, as they would in their crib. Babies usually only begin to sit up in a pram at around the six or eight-month mark.
If you live in a town or city or plan to take your baby and pram into a town or city frequently, it might be wise to make a play for a lightweight, compact pram. You'll likely be navigating crowded pavements, doorways and public transport frequently, meaning a smaller, more lightweight model will likely make life easier. If you live in the countryside and plan on walking across uneven ground - say a country path - on a day-to-day basis, a sturdier model may be a must, and then there are the 'off-road' options
Wherever you travel with your newborn, you're going to need a decent changing bag to hand - a bag that can house everything from nappies to a portable changing mat and a fresh set of clothes.
SHOP: On-the-go essentials
BabyBjornwww.babybjorn.co.uk
Suitable for newborns and babies up to a year old, you would use this to carry your baby in the facing-in position up until your baby is strong enough to hold their head up unaided - usually around five months - at which point you can use the same carrier to carry your baby in the facing out position too.
Pros
- Made especially for newborns
- Suitable for 0-12 months
- Easy to put on and take off
- Available in 3D jersey, 3D mesh, satin-woven cotton and a soft woven blend
- Available in a variety of colours
Cons
- Doesn't provide as much back support as some others on the market
Artipoppeshop.artipoppe.com
Artipoppe carriers are an 'it' buy and then some. Beloved by celebrities and fashion experts alike, if you don't mind splurging, you likely already have one of these on your wish list. Artipoppe's Tweed Rose edition is made from 60% cashmere, 25% organic cotton and 15% mulberry silk. Talk about a luxe medley.
Read our full Artipoppe baby carrier review here.
Pros
- Made from 60% cashmere, 25% organic cotton and 15% mulberry silk
- Celebrity-approved
- Available in a variety of colours, prints and silhouettes
- Easy to put on
- Comfortable to wear
- Newborn-ready
Cons
- The price tag - you have to be keen to splurge
Infantinowww.argos.co.uk
The narrow seat position and padded head support make this suitable for infants from 8lbs in weight to the toddler years. You can switch out the narrow seat position to the wide seat position as your child grows.
Pros
- Suitable for small infants from 8lbs
- A convertible design that grows with your baby
- Four different carry positions
- Great value for money
Cons
- Can be difficult to put baby in it without help
Maxi-Cosiwww.johnlewis.com
A real classic in the car seat market and one of Maxi-Cosi's best-selling products. Compatible with the Maxi-Cosi CabrioFix R129 Infant Car Seat Base, which is sold separately.
Pros
- Suitable for newborns and babies to 15 months (or babies with a height of 40-75cm)
- Isofix compatible
- R129 compliant
Cons
- Base is sold separately
Avionautwww.kiddies-kingdom.com
The lightest car seat in the world, weighing just 2.5kg. With skin-friendly upholstery and innovative EPP material, it's designed to effectively protect your child in the event of a road incident. With a modular insert for correct positioning of the baby and made using cotton for circulation, it's a comfortable, supportive way for your baby to travel.
Pros
- Meets i-Size and ECE-R129 safety standards
- Ultra-lightweight
- Made from skin-friendly materials
- Ecological EPP material guarantees the highest level of ergonomics and safety
- Removable upholstery
Cons
- Base sold separately
Joolzwww.very.co.uk
Made with an adjustable headrest and a one-pull harness system that makes it easier and quicker than ever to safely fasten your baby in. Suitable for newborns up with a height from 45cm-75cm and fully compliant with i-Size (R129) car seat regulations.
Pros
- R129 compliant
- Made with a one-pull harness system
- Features isoFix attachment points
- Compatible with Joolz pushchairs
Cons
- Base sold separately
Bugaboowww.bugaboo.com
Billed as the brand's most comfortable and manoeuvrable all-terrain pushchair, the Bugaboo Fox 5 is sturdy yet lightweight and as it comes with a bassinet attachment, it's suitable for newborns.
Pros
- All-terrain model for maximum versatility
- Suitable for newborns
- One-hand fold with a self-standing design
- Reversible seat that can extend by 10cm as your child grows
- Large, puncture-proof wheels with advanced suspension
- Sturdy yet lightweight
- Available in a variety of shades
Cons
- Not ideal for travelling on public transport due to its size
Babyzen Yoyostore-gb.babyzen.com
A versatile stroller renowned for being compact, lightweight and suitable for travel. You can even fold it down to cabin bag dimensions and carry it on your shoulder. Buy the Yoyo 0+ Newborn Pack (pictured), too, or the Yoyo Bassinet, and your Babyzen Yoyo instantly becomes newborn-friendly. The price shown here includes the frame, newborn bassinet and colour pack bundle.
Pros
- Lightweight and portable
- Folds down to cabin bag dimensions
- Renowned for being city and public transport-friendly
- Can be carried on your shoulder when folded
- Features a one-hand fold-down system
- Available in a variety of colours
Cons
- The newborn pack or bassinet must be purchased separately as add-ons
Mamas and Papaswww.mamasandpapas.com
This six-piece bundle includes all your newborn travel essentials.
Items included: The Flip XT pushchair, the Flip XT carrycot, a changing bag with a bottle holder, car seat adaptors, a cup holder and foot muff.
Pros
- Great value for money
- Suitable for newborns
- Practical but stylish
- Suitable for babies up to 22kg
- Built-in storage
Cons
- Available in one shade
Thulewww.pramworld.co.uk
An all-terrain stroller with a chic, lightweight design, perfect for urban strolling or a country walk. Features a swivel front wheel that makes it incredibly easy to manoeuvre.
Pros
- Swivel front wheel for greater manoeuvrability
- Integrated twist hand breaks for greater security
- Lightweight
- Chic design
- One-handed compact fold
- Multi-position canopy with side ventilation
- Great suspension
Cons
- Rain cover not included
Finnsonbabymori.com
A lightweight changing bag designed to be easier and more comfortable to carry than the classic shoulder changing bag. Available in camel, black and leopard print, this is one of the more contemporary changing bag designs you'll see on the market and includes a portable changing mat.
Pros
- Adjustable straps
- Made from 100% recycled PET polyester
- Water-repellant and easy to wipe clean
- Three external pockets with waterproof zips
- Two side zip pockets that are ideal for bottles
- Five internal pockets
- Includes a quilted portable changing mat
Cons
- Only two colourways available
Babymelwww.boots.com
A compact changing bag design made to be attached to the hand bar of your pram. Made from recycled plastic bottles, this dinky design features a water-resistant exterior and lining.
Pros
- Made from recycled plastic bottles
- Water-resistant outer material and lining
- Two side bottle pockets.
- Easy-access wipes pocket
Cons
- On the smaller side
What do I need to buy to breastfeed or bottle feed my newborn baby?
Newborns require small bottles with a stage 1 teat. Stage 1 bottles deliver a slow flow of milk, which is best for newborns. If you intend to breastfeed, take into account your own health and wellbeing when pulling together your shopping list, for example, some parents swear by nursing pillows, designs that help raise your baby to your breast or to the bottle and relieve your arms of strain.
Most who intend to breastfeed consider a breast pump an essential, too, to help you express milk when you are away from your baby. Make sure to stock up on nipple balm and breast pads, too - comfort is key.
If intending to breastfeed, invest in a few nursing bras. The NHS recommends getting measured when you are around 36-38 weeks pregnant.
SHOP: Baby feeding buys
Elviewww.boots.com
A slimline wearable electric breast pump that has garnered rave reviews, the Elvie Pump can be worn in a bra and connected to an app on your phone, allowing you to adjust your pump according to nipple sensitivity and flow.
Pros
- Slimline design
- Quiet
- App-controlled to monitor milk volume in real time
- Bespoke pumping experience
- Easy to assemble
- Tube-free design
- Available as either a solo or double design
Cons
- Some reviews suggest the suction could be stronger
NanobebeNavigating what you actually need for breastmilk or formula feeding can be a bit of a minefield, but that's why we love the Nanobebe Complete Feeding Set. It has everything you need to get started, including four of its award-winning baby bottles, which feature a natural 'mum-like' feel and are anti-colic. You'll also receive two flexy soothers, storage equipment, cleaning equipment, a non-electric bottle warming bowl and more. This makes a great gift if you're shopping for a friend or family member.
Pros
- Easy to clean
- All-in-one set
- Offers smooth transitions between breast and bottle
- 360-degree, triple-vented teats to reduce colic and help baby stay latched
- Great quality bottle brush
Cons
- Sells out regularly
Medelawww.boots.com
Medela's latest release is designed to allow you to multi-task while expressing. The lightweight collection cups fit discreetly inside your bra.
Pros
- Wearable and lightweight
- Easy to clean and assemble
- 2-Phase Expression technology mimics a baby's natural sucking rhythm.
- See-through cups take the guesswork out of positioning your nipple
Cons
- Reviews suggest it's on the bulky side to carry around
BellaMoonwww.johnlewis.com
A multi-tasking pillow designed to see you through pregnancy and the nursing stage, this adjustable pillow has proven to be a real crowd-pleaser. Zip each component together and you have yourself a full-length pregnancy pillow that will support your back and bump during sleep. Zip each end together, and you end up with a compact design that you can rest your newborn on while you feed them, and save your arms a lot of work.
Pros
- Multi-tasking design
- Available in a wide variety of attractive prints
- Extra covers available separately
- Each cover is made from 100% cotton
- Covers are machine-washable at 40 degrees
Cons
- Filling may need redistributing from time to time
DockAToteu.dockatot.com
A nursing pillow that delivers on both style and substance. At first glance, it's a smart accent pillow, but those in the know will recognise this buy for the cradling aid it is. Use to elevate your newborn on your lap during feeding time and relieve your arms of the strain.
Pros
- Chic, compact design
- A variety of prints and fabrics to choose from
- Features a luxe-looking tassel
- Supports both mother and baby during nursing sessions
Cons
- Tassel can get in the way
Aden + Anaiswww.fenwick.co.uk
100% cotton muslin squares made with a high thread count for extra absorbency. Available in a variety of prints and designs, which makes these a great gifting option for soon-to-be new parents too.
Pros
- 100% cotton
- Made with a high thread count for extra absorbency
- Available in a variety of prints and designs
- Arrives in recyclable packaging
- Machine-washable
Cons
- Cold wash only
Elvie
A set of two slip-proof breast milk collection cups. They sit discreetly inside your bra and are perfect for anyone who experiences heavy leakage, catching it and adding to your bottle supplies, instead of absorbing it like breast pads.
Pros
- Slip-proof to keep you leak-free
- Designed to be worn inside your bra
- Can collect up to 1oz of milk on each side
- Reusable
- Easy to clean by hand or in a dishwasher
Cons
- Hard, so difficult to cuddle baby when wearing them
Seraphinewww.seraphine.com
Set of two super soft breastfeeding and nursing bras, suitable for pumping, too. Adjustable and made from super soft bamboo material.
Pros
- Suitable for both breastfeeding and pumping
- Made from soft bamboo fabric
- Easy nursing access
- Fully adjustable
- Available in a variety of colours
- No underwire for maximum comfort
Cons
- Runs large
Bravadowww.very.co.uk
A stretchy, cotton blend, racerback design with bra cups that drop away for skin-on-skin contact. Comfortable and soft with a wide bottom band.
Pros
- A super soft cotton blend
- Racer back design
- Bra cups drop away for skin-on-skin contact
- Easy-to-use nursing clips mean the bran can be opened with one hand
- Tested to hold up to 25lbs
- Available in black, white or grey
Cons
- One per pack
Baby Brezzawww.currys.co.uk
A compact baby formula maker that dispenses 2-10 ounces of body temperature formula. If you make formula part of your newborn baby routine, this compact machine takes the guesswork out of making up bottles.
Pros
- Automatically makes a warm formula bottle
- Dispenses body temperature formula from 2-10 ounces
- Small enough to travel with
- Easy to use
- Simplifies the process of making up bottles of formula
Cons
- Lock tab could be stronger
Il Tuttoiltutto.co.uk
By no means an essential, but if you're looking to go all out in the nursery accessory department and luxe up your feed times, make a play for Il Tutto's range of electric recliner chairs. A comfortable and attractive nursing chair made with an electric recline function and a USB port. Includes a smooth swivel function that allows you to gently and effortlessly glide back and forth to help soothe your baby.
Pros
- Easy. touse
- USB charging port
- Available in a range of neutral fabric colours
- A supportive design that helps you relax and unwind
Cons
- Takes up a lot of space
The non-essentials...
If you're an 'all the gear' shopper, you likely have a few newborn baby buys on your radar already, pieces of kit that your friends have waxed lyrical about, that you've saved on your Instagram feed, that have garnered their fair share of hype. Whether pieces of tech designed to take the guesswork out of that newborn stage or nursery additions that perform and look Instagram-able too, these are all the newborn baby extras you may wish to snap up as well.
SHOP: Newborn baby extras
DockAToteu.dockatot.com
An award-winning multi-functional docking station for babies 0-8 months old. Designed for supervised lounging. Created to mimic a womb environment, these nest-like docks have earned rave reviews from parents worldwide. Designed for supervised sleeping and relaxing only.
Pros
- Available in a variety of chic designs
- Removable covers
- Additional covers can be bought separately
- Accessories can be bought separately.
- Made for supervised lounging and play time
- Provides a familiar spot for babies while travelling
Cons
- Cannot be used for unsupervised lounging or sleeping
BabyBjornwww.babybjorn.co.uk
An ergonomic bouncer available in mesh, 3D jersey, woven and cotton. Suitable for 0-2 years or 8-29lbs.
Pros
- Ergonomic
- Natural rocking motion
- Available in mesh, 3D jersey, woven and cotton
- Available in a variety of neutral colours
- Lightweight and easy to move around
Cons
- Bouncer toys and accessories sold separately
Ewan DeluxeScience-backed and designed to help little ones who struggle to settle at night, Ewan is a cuddly toy with a soft red melatonin-inducing glow that mimics the comfort of the womb. You can choose from various sounds, too, from white noise to a heartbeat recording as it might have been heard in the womb, designed to lull newborns and toddlers to sleep.
Pros
- Emits a soft, melatonin-inducing glow that mimics the environment of the womb
- Multiple soothing sounds to choose from
- Science-backed
- Automatically activates when your baby stirs in the night
- Control pad is removable so Ewan can be washed
Cons
- Unsafe if placed in the cot
Misty The Cloud baby lightA nursery thermometer and sleep inducing night light combined. A multi-tasking product that monitors your baby's nursery temperature and can gently settle them to sleep with a changing light setting.
Pros
- Monitors your baby's nursery temperature
- Can also be used as an ambient night light
- Colour-coded temperature range display
- Adjustable brightness
Cons
- One design available
Owletwww.oxygenboutique.com
An award-winning, app-controlled baby monitor system that tracks your baby's oxygen level and heart rate. Also has a sleep history feature that lets you see how long and how well your baby is sleeping.
Pros
- Track your baby's oxygen level and heart rate
- Notifications to alert if baby needs you
- Fully integrates with the Owlet sleep cam
Cons
- Owlet sleep cam sold separately
43.
Owlet Cam
Owletwww.oxygenboutique.com
Streams HD video with night vision and two-way audio over your phone, meaning you can both hear your child and speak to them. You can hear and see your child from anywhere thanks to the Owlet Cam.
Pros
- Magnetic base
- Mounting kit with cable guards
- Live stream from anywhere via the Owlet app
- Night vision
Cons
- Owlet sock kit sold separately
Binibambawww.johnlewis.com
A sheepskin buggy liner designed to fit most prams. A real 'it' buy that is hypoallergenic and soft. Suitable for newborns and baby-safe. Crafted from Woolmark-certified sheepskin.
Pros
- Suitable for newborns
- Baby safe.
- Crafted from Woolmark-certified sheepskin
- Hypoallergenic
- 100% natural Merino sheepskin
- Available in a variety of neutral colours
Cons
- Sponge-wash or dry clean only
ergoPouchwww.fenwick.co.uk
A zip-up swaddle designed to keep your baby snug and secure without the need for complicated wrapping. The swaddlers of your friends will likely have already recommended one of these to you. A 2.5 TOG like this one can be used on its own in room temperatures between 17-23 degrees, with no blankets in the bassinet or cot.
Pros
- Certified organic GOTS cotton, with elastane on the outer fabric and bamboo in the lining
- Poppers for ease of use
- Bell-shaped design approved by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute
- Two-way zip allows for quick and easy nappy changes
- Available in a variety of colours and prints
Cons
- Not suitable for use in summer or when your room temperature gets over 23 degrees
Main image credit: Instagram @emrata
Annie Vischer is Beauty Director at Grazia. Annie was previously Beauty Editor across a number of lifestyle titles at TI Media (now Future Plc) including Woman & Home magazine and Feel Good You. Annie has over a decade-worth of experience as a beauty journalist under her belt and is an established authority in the beauty industry, known for covering skincare, make-up, hair care, body care, treatments and wellness in print, online and across social media.