Baby's first 3 months: a simple list of what you really need

The first three months are a period when a baby can do with very little. The real needs revolve around sleep, feeding, nappy changes and safe travel. Keeping the list simple helps both your budget and your home.

For what to pack for the hospital, see the “hospital bag list” article in the Guide. Here we focus on the days after you come home.

Sleep

• A cot, bassinet or crib with a flat, firm mattress that fits the baby
• A tight-fitting sheet, plus 2–3 spares
• A sleeping bag or blanket suited to the season (see safe sleep rules)
• A night light to make night care easier

You do not need a pillow, duvet or soft toys in the cot. Our “baby room preparation” article has more details.

Clothing

• Front-fastening bodysuits and vests: usually 5–8
• Sleepsuits or pyjamas: 4–6
• Hats, thin socks and mittens/booties: 2–4 pairs
• One or two warm layers, depending on the season

See the “newborn clothing sizes” article for sizes and quantities.

Nappies and care

• Nappies: many babies use around 8–12 a day in the early weeks, so buy a small pack first
• A changing mat or washable cover
• Cotton wool or soft wipes and warm water
• A moisturiser and nappy-rash cream (your pharmacist can advise)
• Soft nail scissors or a file

Bathing

• A small baby bath or bath support
• Soft towels (hooded ones are handy)
• A mild, fragrance-free baby wash if needed; plain water is often enough in the first weeks
• A mercury-free bath thermometer

Feeding

• If breastfeeding: nursing bras, breast pads, a few muslin cloths
• If formula feeding: a few bottles, a bottle brush, a sterilising method and the formula your doctor recommends
• In both cases, plenty of muslin cloths or burp cloths

We cover breastfeeding and bottles without judgement in “nursing pillow, bottle and dummy choices”.

Going out

• A rear-facing infant car seat suited to your car, for the first trip home
• A pushchair or a baby carrier
• A changing bag with nappies, wipes and a spare outfit

See “pushchair and car seat choice” for help.

Health

• A thermometer (non-digital, mercury-free types exist); talk to your doctor about what to do about fever
• Saline for stuffy noses (ask your pharmacist)
• A small care and first-aid kit

What may be unnecessary in the first days

• Lots of clothes in one size, since babies grow quickly
• Fancy cot sets (pillows, bumpers and duvets are not safe)
• Many toys; in the early weeks babies love your face and voice
• Every brand and type of bottle or dummy; see your baby’s preference first

Buying second-hand

• Clothes, blankets and toys can usually be used safely after a good wash.
• For cots and high chairs, check for missing parts, breaks, peeling paint and recalls.
• Car seats are best not bought second-hand: past crash damage may not be visible and the seat’s history is unknown.
• It is safer not to buy breast pump parts or items that go in the mouth, such as dummies, second-hand.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to buy everything before the birth? No. A sleep space, a few clothes, nappies and a car seat are enough for day one; you can add the rest as your baby’s needs become clear.

What should I prioritise on a tight budget? The two safety items: a safe sleep space and a car seat. Borrow the rest from friends and family.

This is a general guide; every family’s needs differ.