The arrival of a newborn brings joy to any home, but it also means a lot of preparation. To help first-time parents welcome their little one with peace of mind, we've put together a comprehensive list of newborn essentials, covering feeding, cleaning, clothing, and sleep, with a few Aussie twists to help you meet your baby's needs.
I. Feeding Essentials
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Baby Bottles:
- For breastfeeding families, have 2-3 bottles (around 120ml) on hand as a backup.
- Formula-feeding families will need more. Wide-neck bottles are recommended for easier cleaning.
- Tip: When choosing bottles, prioritise quality and safety, especially for newborns.
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Dummies (Pacifiers):
- Choose the right dummy for your baby's age and have different sizes ready for their growth.
- Tip: Look for silicone and BPA-free options.
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Infant Formula:
- If breastfeeding isn't possible or milk supply is low, have infant formula designed for newborns ready.
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Bottle Brushes and Sterilisers:
- Use brushes suitable for your bottle material (e.g., fibre brushes for glass, sponge brushes for plastic).
- Have a steriliser or pot for regular sterilising of bottles and dummies.
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Bottle Warmer:
- Makes warming milk quick and easy, especially at night or when out and about.
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Baby Wipes and Cotton Wool:
- For daily cleaning of baby's hands, face, and bottom.
- Tip: Choose alcohol-free, hypoallergenic wipes with a soft texture, and use 100% natural cotton wool for gentle cleaning.
II. Cleaning and Care Items
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Newborn Nappies:
- Have several packs of newborn (NB) and small (S) sizes ready.
- Choose soft, comfortable nappies to avoid skin irritation.
- Nappies should leave the umbilical area exposed to prevent friction and inflammation.
- Tip: Nappies with a U-shaped umbilical cord cutout are ideal.
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Baby Wipes and Cotton Wool:
- As previously mentioned, alcohol-free and hypoallergenic wipes are very important.
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Baby Bathtub and Towels:
- Choose a safe, medium-sized baby bathtub.
- Have several pure cotton towels for drying baby after baths.
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Baby Shampoo and Body Wash:
- Use baby-specific shampoo and body wash.
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Baby Oil and Powder:
- For baby's skin care, to keep it dry.
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Change Mats:
- Use these under baby during nappy changes to protect surfaces.
- Also useful for protecting the cot (crib) mattress.
III. Clothing Items
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Bodysuits and Pyjamas:
- Have 8-10 of each, and choose long or short sleeves depending on the season.
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Jackets and Socks:
- Have different thicknesses for varying weather.
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Wraps and Sleeping Bags:
- For swaddling or as warm sleepwear. Sleeping bags prevent baby from kicking off blankets.
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Baby Nail Clippers:
- For regular trimming of baby's nails.
IV. Sleep Items
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Cot (Crib):
- Choose a sturdy cot with non-toxic paint.
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Mattress, Sheets, and Blankets:
- Ensure baby's comfort and cleanliness during sleep. Pure cotton, soft, and breathable options are recommended.
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Dummies and Soft Toys:
- Help soothe baby and promote sleep.
V. First-Aid Kit
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Thermometer:
- For monitoring baby's temperature.
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Cotton Buds and Sterile Gauze:
- For daily cleaning and wound care.
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Common Medications:
- Such as fever reducers and anti-diarrhoea medicine, but use only under medical supervision.
VI. Toys
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Musical Mobile:
- For use with the cot, essential for newborns. Promotes hearing and attention.
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Musical Carousel and Rattles:
- Exercise baby's hand-eye-ear coordination.
Conclusion
This list covers all the items a newborn might need for feeding, nappy changes, clothing, sleep, bathing, and play. We hope it helps future parents reduce anxiety and prepare in advance to welcome their baby in the best possible conditions. May all families enjoy this beautiful time!
