Knowing which baby things to buy before birth saves you time, money and a lot of last-minute stress. Newborns arrive fast and need a lot. Getting the essentials sorted before your due date means you can focus on resting and bonding, not running to the shops at 2am.
This guide covers the key products every new mum needs, from sleep and feeding through to postpartum recovery. Browse our 0 to 3 month baby starter range if you want everything in one place.
Nappies, Wipes and Changing Essentials
Newborns go through around 10 to 12 nappies per day in the first few weeks. Stock up before your due date so you are never caught short.
- Buy two sizes. Newborn and Size 1. Some babies skip newborn entirely, others stay in it for weeks.
- Choose fragrance-free wipes. Newborn skin is sensitive and fragrance is a common irritant.
- Keep a nappy change mat and a small caddy stocked with wipes, nappies and barrier cream on every level of your home.
- A portable change mat is worth having from day one. You will use it everywhere.
Sleep Setup: What Baby Actually Needs
Safe sleep is the priority. The Red Nose Australia safe sleep guidelines recommend babies sleep on their back, on a firm flat surface, with no loose bedding, pillows or soft toys in the sleep space.
- A bassinet or co-sleeper for the first few months. Keep it next to your bed for night feeds.
- A firm, well-fitting mattress. No gaps between the mattress and the sides.
- Fitted sheets only. Two to three is plenty to start.
- Swaddles or sleep bags rated to the right tog for your climate. Avoid loose blankets.
- A white noise machine or app. Not essential, but many mums find it genuinely useful for settling.
You do not need a full nursery set up before birth. Focus on the bassinet and safe bedding first. The cot can wait a few months.
Feeding Essentials for New Mums
Whether you plan to breastfeed, bottle feed or both, having a few basics ready before birth takes the pressure off those first exhausting days.
If You Are Planning to Breastfeed
- Nursing bras in your late-pregnancy size. Buy two or three. Your size will change after birth, so do not overbuy upfront.
- Breast pads, both reusable and disposable. Leaking is common in the early weeks.
- Nipple cream. Lanolin-based creams are widely recommended.
- A manual pump as a backup, even if you plan to hire or buy an electric pump later.
- Burp cloths. You will go through more than you expect.
For breastfeeding support, the Australian Breastfeeding Association has a helpline and a solid library of practical resources.
If You Are Bottle Feeding
- Four to six bottles in a newborn-flow teat size.
- A bottle brush and steriliser.
- If using formula, check with your midwife or GP on which type to start with.
Clothing: Keep It Simple
Newborns outgrow clothes quickly. Do not go overboard on tiny sizes before you know your baby's build.
- Six to eight onesies in newborn and 0000. Opt for soft, breathable fabrics like cotton or bamboo, both are gentle on new skin.
- A few zip-up or side-snap sleepsuits for easy night changes.
- One or two warmer layers depending on your season and climate.
- Scratch mittens and a few beanies for the first week or two.
Check out our newborn clothing and essentials for pieces designed with those early weeks in mind.
Postpartum Essentials for Mum
You are recovering from birth at the same time as caring for a newborn. Stock your own recovery kit before baby arrives.
- Maternity pads. At least two packs. Hospital-grade thickness for the first few days.
- Comfortable high-waisted underwear in a larger size than usual.
- Easy front-opening tops or nursing singlets for feeding and skin-to-skin.
- A water bottle with a handle or straw. Staying hydrated matters, especially if breastfeeding.
- Healthy snacks that are easy to eat one-handed. Stock the freezer before your due date.
Staying on top of life admin with a newborn is its own challenge. This guide on staying organised in the early weeks covers the products that genuinely help.
The Baby Gear Worth Having From Day One
- A pram or travel system that suits your lifestyle. Test it before birth.
- An approved infant car seat, fitted by a professional. Baby cannot leave the hospital without one.
- A baby carrier or wrap. Hands-free carrying is practical from the first week.
- A bouncer or rocker for awake time.
- A baby bath or bath insert for the kitchen sink.
As your baby grows you will start thinking about what comes next. Our article covering key milestones from newborn through to toddler is a useful reference to bookmark now.
What You Can Buy Later
Not everything needs to be ready on day one. Save your budget by waiting on these until you need them.
- High chair. Not needed until around six months when solids begin.
- Baby monitor. Useful once baby moves to a separate room.
- Toys and activity gear. A newborn needs very little stimulation beyond your face and voice. Ideas for simple newborn activities that cost nothing are worth reading when you feel ready.
- Sippy cups, bowls and cutlery. All for later.
Focus on sleep, feeding and nappy changes first. Everything else can follow. Shop our newborn baby essentials to get a head start on the things you actually need.
