Newborn Essentials: What Your Baby Needs from 0–3 Months

Newborn essentials for the first three months are mostly about sleep, feeding, keeping clean and staying close. You do not need a lot of gear, but the right basics make the fourth trimester easier.

Use this guide alongside our newborn checklist to see what you already have and what is left.

Newborn essentials for sleep

A bassinet or co-sleeper keeps your baby close for the early weeks. Follow current safe sleeping guidelines, such as those from Red Nose, when setting up any sleep space.

Swaddles and wraps are a newborn staple, and a baby monitor helps once baby sleeps in another room. See the Nursery Checklist.

Feeding

Whether you breastfeed, bottle feed or combine both, it helps to have a few baby bottles on hand and a steriliser to keep them clean. A nursing pillow and a comfy nursing chair help with long feeds. The Feeding Checklist has more.

Bath time and nappy changes

A baby bath at a comfortable height saves your back, and soft towels and washcloths round out bath time. Set up a change mat where you will use it most. See the Bath and Care Checklist.

Play and bonding

Short, frequent play sessions on the floor are part of the day from early on. A play gym or play mat gives your baby something to look at and reach for. The Play and Bonding Checklist has more ideas.

Out and about

A baby carrier keeps your hands free for short trips, while your pram and capsule handle longer outings. Pack a nappy bag and keep it stocked.

Newborn gifts

Visiting a new baby? Browse gifts for newborns and 0–3 months gift ideas.

FAQs

What does a newborn need in the first week?
A safe sleep space, a car seat or capsule, feeding supplies, nappies and wipes, a few swaddles or wraps, and simple clothing. Most other items can be added over the first few months.

How many swaddles or wraps do I need?
Many parents find three to five is enough to allow for washing and the odd accident. You can add more once you know what your baby settles best in.

When can my baby use a play gym?
Play gyms are generally designed for supervised floor time from the newborn stage. Always check the age guidance on the specific product.

Do I need a baby monitor?
It depends on your home and routine. A monitor is useful once your baby naps or sleeps in a separate room.

Found a lower price elsewhere? Check our Price Promise. Prefer to spread the cost? You can lay-by with us on bigger items like prams, cots and car seats.