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Congratulations, you’re about to welcome a new little one into your life! As parents who are passionate about minimalist travel and simple living, we understand that the journey to parenthood is both thrilling and overwhelming. You’re likely pondering over the essentials for a newborn, wondering what to buy and what to comfortably skip.
If you find yourself leafing through baby magazines, captivated by nursery room inspirations and tempted to stock up on adorable beanies, socks, and mittens, you’re not alone. The trend of new parents splurging on non-essential baby items is increasingly noticeable.
I’ve been there – investing in expensive furniture and baby products, only to resell them later at a fraction of the cost. It’s a lesson many of us learn the hard way. That’s why this comprehensive guide aims to give you the lowdown on things to buy for a newborn that is genuinely necessary.
Our goal is to help you shop smart, save money, and avoid clutter, giving you the peace of mind needed to juggle the chaotic yet beautiful transition into parenthood.
So, let’s dive in.
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The transition to parenthood is a monumental shift, and it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of baby shopping. The allure of adorable baby items can make even the most minimalist of parents question their shopping list.
But let’s face it, newborns are not as high-maintenance as the baby industry would have you believe. So, how do you navigate this new terrain without cluttering your home and emptying your wallet?
Let’s break it down.
Table of Contents
The Best Newborn Clothes to Buy
When it comes to clothing your newborn, less is often more.
Most new mothers will find themselves at home for the initial 4-6 weeks, recovering from childbirth and breastfeeding their newborns around the clock. Given that your newborn likely won’t venture out much during these first few months, a few sets of muslin wraps, onesies & swaddle bags are more than sufficient.
Here’s what you’re looking for:
1. Muslin Wraps
On average, newborns manage about 8 hours of sleep during the day. During this initial month, you can make your life considerably easier by focusing on a few quality muslin wraps for daytime use.
Muslin wraps are incredibly versatile and breathable, making them ideal for swaddling your newborn. Their open-weave design allows for better air circulation, reducing the risk of overheating – a common concern for new parents.
What to Look for in a Muslin Wrap:
Material: Opt for 100% organic cotton muslin for the softest and most breathable wrap.
Size: A larger size offers more versatility; it can be used for swaddling, as a stroller cover, or even as a nursing cover for mum.
Durability: Look for wraps with reinforced edges to ensure they withstand frequent washing.
Ease of Care: Choose wraps that are machine washable and quick to dry.
Design: While aesthetics might be a personal choice, neutral colours or subtle patterns often blend well with other baby essentials.
Practical Tips:
Pre-Wash: Always pre-wash the muslin wraps before the first use to increase softness and remove any manufacturing residues.
Layering: In colder months, you can layer two muslin wraps for extra warmth without worrying about overheating your baby.
Multi-Use: Don’t limit the wrap to just swaddling; it can serve as a burp cloth, changing mat, or even a makeshift bib in a pinch.
By investing in a couple of high-quality muslin wraps and knowing how to use them effectively, you’ll navigate the first month of your newborn’s life with greater ease and simplicity.
2. Organic Cotton Onesies / Sleepsuits / Jumpsuits
Onesies are the staple of a newborn’s wardrobe. Our top picks are soft, stretchy, and supremely comfortable onesies made from 100% organic cotton.
Depending on where you’re located, you may call them jumpsuits or sleepsuits. Whatever you call them, they’re essentially one-piece clothing that offers supreme comfort for your newborn. They are not only easy and quick to change but also gentle on your baby’s delicate skin.
Opt for onesies with a double-zipper design rather than snaps for ease of use. These onesies make nappy changes a breeze, minimising the fuss and keeping your baby content.
The last thing you want during a bleary-eyed, middle-of-the-night nappy change is trying to align multiple snaps. Babies are natural wriggles, so do yourself a favour and opt for organic cotton zipper onesies that take no more than 3 seconds to put on.
What size clothes should I buy for my newborn?
While those prem-000 size clothes might look irresistibly cute, they’re often outgrown in a matter of weeks. For that reason, we recommend skipping preemie sizes altogether and opting for 0-3 months size.
Always buy one size larger than you think you’ll need. Not only does this account for any sudden growth spurts, but it also ensures that the clothing will have a longer lifespan, offering better value for your money.
3. Swaddle Bags / Sleeping Bags
Swaddle bags and sleeping bags are the contemporary answer to traditional swaddling blankets, offering both convenience and safety in one neat package.
These innovative products are designed to keep your baby snug and secure without the complexities of swaddling with a blanket. They’re particularly useful for parents who find traditional swaddling a bit tricky. Plus, they eliminate the risk of loose blankets in the crib, which is a safety plus.
What to Look for in a Swaddle Bag:
Material: Opt for breathable fabrics like organic cotton or bamboo blends to ensure your baby stays comfortable but not overheated.
Zipper Design: A two-way zipper swaddle blanket can make nighttime nappy changes much easier, minimising disturbances to your baby’s sleep.
Size Adjustability: Some products grow with your baby, featuring adjustable lengths or armhole snaps.
TOG Rating: This measures thermal resistance, helping you choose the right bag for the current season.
Ease of Care: As with muslin wraps, look for options that are machine washable and quick to dry.
Practical Tips:
Transitioning: Swaddle bags are excellent for newborns, but as your baby grows and starts to roll, transitioning to a sleeping bag is advisable for safety reasons.
Spare Bag: It’s wise to have a spare in case of nighttime accidents or laundry delays.
Temperature Check: Always feel the back of your baby’s neck to ensure they’re not too hot or cold and adjust room temperature or clothing as needed.
Our Recommendation:
As a mother of two, I can personally vouch for the quality of newborn clothes from Love to Dream. Their products are not only soft and comfortable but also durable and ingeniously designed to adapt to an infant’s growth stages. We used their Swaddle Up series for our little ones, and it’s been a game-changer. My only regret is not discovering them sooner and stocking up!
4. Are Mittens / Socks / Beanies Necessary?
Mittens: While mittens can prevent your newborn from scratching their delicate skin, many babies don’t take well to having their hands covered. So, mittens aren’t a must-have but rather a matter of personal preference.
Socks and Beanies: The need for these items is largely influenced by your geographical location and the prevailing climate.
In subtropical or tropical climates, socks and beanies may be entirely optional. Your newborn is likely comfortable without the added layers.
If you’re in a temperate or colder zone, a moderate collection of socks, hats, and beanies can be beneficial, particularly during seasonal transitions.
How many clothes should I buy for my newborn?
As cute as those baby clothes are, you don’t really need more than 4-6 sets of comfortable cotton sleepwear and a set of going-out clothes in the first few months. Here’s a rundown on the essential newborn clothes you’ll need:
The Essentials:
Onesies & Bodysuits: 4-6 should suffice. These are great for layering under sleepsuits or wearing alone in warmer weather. A few sets of onesies and bodysuits are your go-to for both day and night.
Muslin Wraps: a pack of 4 for swaddling and daytime naps.
Sleeping/Swaddle Bags: 3-4 sets should be enough to cover between laundry days.
Optional Items:
Socks or Booties: 3-6 pairs depending on the climate of your location. But remember, many sleepsuits come with built-in feet.
Beanies: 2-3 should be plenty, especially for the first few weeks.
Mittens: 2 pairs to prevent scratching, although some sleepsuits come with fold-over cuffs.
Special Outfits: Limit these to 1 or 2. Newborns grow quickly, and special outfits are rarely worn more than once.
Blankets: 1-2 are enough for outings or extra warmth.
7 Types of Clothes to Avoid
Clothes with Snaps: While clothes with snaps might seem convenient, they can be a real hassle during those middle-of-the-night nappy changes. The last thing you want is to fumble with snaps when you’re already sleep-deprived.
Clothes with Lots of Velcro: Velcro might seem like a quick and easy solution, but it can be scratchy and uncomfortable against your baby’s delicate skin. Plus, Velcro tends to lose its stickiness over time, rendering the garment less effective.
Small and Tight Clothes: It’s tempting to buy those adorable, tiny outfits, but remember, your baby will grow quickly. Small and tight clothes are not only impractical but can also be uncomfortable for your newborn.
Over-the-Head Shirts: These types of shirts can be a struggle to get on and off, especially when you’re dealing with a squirmy newborn. Opt for shirts with a side or front opening for a smoother dressing experience.
Newborn Shoes: Let’s face it, newborn shoes are more of a fashion statement than a necessity. Your baby won’t be walking for a while, so save your money and skip the shoes for now.
Baby Shorts: Unless you live in a tropical climate, baby shorts are generally unnecessary. They offer little warmth and are not practical for frequent nappy changes. Opt for one piece instead.
Cloth Nappies: While cloth nappies are eco-friendly, they require a significant time investment, especially when it comes to washing. If you don’t have extra help with laundry, you might want to stick with disposable options for the time being.
By being mindful of these items, you can avoid unnecessary expenses and focus on what truly matters during this special time with your newborn.
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The Essentials for Feeding Your Newborn
Navigating the world of newborn feeding can be just as overwhelming as choosing the right clothes. Whether you’re breastfeeding, formula-feeding, or a combination of both, here’s a streamlined guide to what you actually need.
Breastfeeding Essentials
Nursing Bras: Invest in a few comfortable, supportive nursing bras that make it easy to breastfeed.
Breast Pads: These breast pads are a lifesaver for preventing leaks and keeping you dry.
Nipple Cream: To soothe and heal sore nipples, especially in the first few weeks for first-time mothers.
Breastfeeding Nice-To-Haves
Breast Pump: Even if you plan to exclusively breastfeed, having a pump can give you flexibility and a break when needed.
While birthing centres and hospitals often provide electric breast pumps for temporary use, you might want to consider hiring or buying a quality hands-free electric breast pump, especially if you’re planning to return to work.
Don’t compromise on this one. Manual pumps may seem like a budget-friendly option, but they can be physically taxing. I still remember the sore fingers and the intense suction that made manual pumping an incredibly hard task. You’ll feel the pain when you’re pumping in the middle of the night with a hungry baby.
Breastfeeding Pillow: If you’re determined to breastfeed exclusively, a breastfeeding pillow can make those long feeding sessions more comfortable for both you and your baby.
These pillows provide proper support, helping to position the baby correctly for breastfeeding and saving you from back and arm strain.
Bottle Feeding Essentials
Bottles and Nipples: Opt for anti-colic bottles and a variety of nipple sizes to find what your baby prefers.
Burp Cloths: You’ll need plenty of these for spit-ups and spills. But it can be any absorbent cloths, not necessarily baby burp cloths.
Bottle Feeding Optionals
Bottle Steriliser: This is useful for mothers with minimal support. For parents who have help at home, a dedicated bottle steriliser may not be necessary.
A large pot of boiling water can also effectively sterilise baby bottles, teats, and other feeding accessories. Just make sure they’re submerged and boiled for at least five minutes to kill any harmful bacteria.
Bottle Warmer: Again, a bottle warmer can make nighttime feedings easier for mothers with little support.
For those with an extra pair of hands, a bowl of hot water can do the trick just fine. Simply place the milk bottle in the bowl for a few minutes until it reaches your desired temperature.
You can also use a microwave, but be cautious as this can create hot spots in the milk. Always shake the bottle well and test the temperature before feeding your baby.
Feeding Items to Skip
Bottle Drying Rack: A regular dish rack works just as well.
Nursing Cover: Those muslin wraps will work as nursing covers just fine. Alternatively, consider buying a few sets of nursing tops that can be used both indoors and outdoors.
Fancy Bibs: Stick to simple, washable bibs that get the job done.
Sleeping Essentials For A Newborn
When it comes to newborn sleep, less is often more. The early months are the times for both you and your baby to establish good sleep habits. While it may be tempting to stock up on all sorts of sleep aids and fancy gadgets, the truth is, your newborn’s sleep needs are quite basic.
Opt For A Bedside Bassinet Over An Expensive Cot
I wish I’d known a few things about navigating the early sleep challenges with a newborn before becoming a mother. For starters, teaching a newborn to sleep independently is a heart-wrenching experience. It often involves a lot of tears and sleepless nights.
Breastfeeding adds another layer of complexity to the equation. Newborns typically need to be fed every two hours all the time! And while baby cots may seem like a good idea, they can be hard on your back.
A bedside bassinet allows your baby to sleep safely in their own space while being just an arm’s reach away for those frequent feeds and cuddles.
What’s more, many parents find that their babies prefer the closeness of a bedside bassinet for the first several months. So if you’re not ready to co-sleep, investing in a bedside bassinet co-sleeper can be a game-changer, especially if you’re breastfeeding.
As your baby starts to sleep for longer stretches, you can consider transitioning them into a cot or a toddler bed. But for those first few months, a bedside bassinet is one of those things to buy for a newborn that will save your sanity.
On-the-Go Essentials For A Newborn
Navigating the world with a newborn requires a bit more than just a nappy bag, particularly if you’ve always adopted an active, travel-oriented lifestyle like ours. So, what are the essentials for a newborn when you’re planning to take on the great outdoors or simply run errands efficiently?
Sarong: If you’re looking for a more temporary or budget-friendly solution, a summer sarong can work wonders for carrying your newborn. To wear it, simply wrap it across your back and tie a knot over one shoulder. You might need an extra pair of hands to get it just right.
Carrier: If you’re weighing the options between a baby sling, wrap, or carrier, consider opting for a carrier with an infant insert. Newborns may start off light, averaging around 3kg, but they grow quickly. Carrying a baby nearly all day, especially if you’re breastfeeding on demand, can take a toll on your body.
Unlike slings or wraps, which often lack ergonomic support and have a short lifespan of a month or two, a quality baby carrier can serve you well for over a year.
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We Recommend: We’re loyal fans of this premium brand for baby carriers. These carriers have been our trusty companions on many of our adventures around the world, from the mountainous terrains of New Zealand to the arid landscapes of Palm Springs. Impressively, these ergonomic carriers served us well for more than 14 months, right up until our little ones took their first independent steps.
Pram: We recommend choosing a pram that doubles as a portable bassinet. We’re big fans of this premium brand for prams and lightweight travel strollers. Their prams are not only well-designed but also incredibly versatile, making life easier for busy mums.
Clever Parent Hack: Simply add a bassinet mattress to your pram to create a cosy sleep haven for your newborn, suitable for both daytime naps and nighttime slumbers during those initial months. It’s a convenient way to keep your baby comfortable while you’re on the go.
Choosing the Best Toys for Newborns
Introducing your newborn to the world of toys is an exciting milestone for any parent. However, the reality is that a newborn’s needs are surprisingly simple in the first three months.
So, before you fill your shopping basket with every colourful gadget, take a moment to consider the essentials for a newborn that truly enrich those early days and offer developmental benefits.
Before we dive into the world of newborn toys, remember that nothing beats the great outdoors when it comes to a natural playground for your child. The best part? It doesn’t cost a penny.
Sensory Toys
In the early stages, your newborn is exploring the world through their senses. Soft, textured toys that make gentle sounds are ideal. These sensory toys stimulate your baby’s vision, touch, and hearing, making them a smart addition to your list of things to buy for a newborn. Some examples are:
Soft Rattles: Look for ones made of organic cotton or plush fabric. The gentle sound and soft texture are perfect for tiny hands to explore. These wrist rattles will keep newborns fascinated for a very long time.
Teething Rings: Opt for silicone or natural rubber teething rings that are easy to grip and offer different textures for your baby to chew on. These giraffe teethers have been some of the most popular toys for newborns, and for good reasons.
Crinkle Toys: These are usually fabric toys that make a ‘crinkle’ sound when touched. They’re fantastic for auditory stimulation and are often shaped like animals or everyday objects. Additionally, their soft texture makes them ideal as a bedtime ‘lovey’, offering comfort and a sense of security to your newborn.
High-Contrast Cards: Black and white or high-contrast coloured cards can stimulate visual development. You can even find sets that are designed to be attached to your baby’s pram or car seat.
Musical Mobiles: While these should be used with supervision, a musical mobile can provide both visual and auditory stimulation. Choose one with soft melodies and rotating objects.
Textured Balls: Soft balls with different textures and fabrics can stimulate your baby’s sense of touch and are easy for little hands to hold.
Mirror Toys: Babies are fascinated by faces, and a small, baby-safe mirror can provide hours of entertainment.
Fabric Books: These are books made of cloth that often include textures, flaps, and even sounds. They’re excellent for tactile and visual stimulation. This is our son’s favourite caterpillar.
By the way…
Did you know? We have our very own children’s picture book, written based on our real travel adventures.
Our Family’s Top-Pick Toy for Newborns to Tots
If you’re looking for a toy that ticks all the boxes for sensory stimulation and engagement, these smart bunnies are our family’s top pick. These adorable bunnies are not just eye-catching; they’re also multi-functional and grow with your child.
They serve as a night light, storyteller, and music player, all rolled into one. The soft, non-toxic silicone material is perfect for little hands to explore, while the gentle glow provides a soothing ambience for bedtime.
What sets these bunnies apart and makes them our standout choice is their customisability. The smart bunny has the ability to record your own bedtime stories is a game-changer. Imagine not having to read the same story repeatedly every night; instead, your voice can lull your baby to sleep, even when you’re not in the room.
While they might be a bit more of an investment upfront, their versatility and features make them a worthwhile addition to your list of things to buy for a newborn. As mentioned previously, this is a toy that grows with your child, from newborn to school-age. Our children still use it every night, as they can carry my voice with them wherever they go.
It’s a smart, long-term addition to your list of essentials for a newborn, offering both entertainment and comfort in those early months.
Our family bought the model mentioned above for our daughter and took it with us on our trip around the world. However, due to excess baggage, we had to gift it to a friend. So, when we settled into our new home on Australia‘s Gold Coast, we bought this new version of the Bunny. While the two models have slightly different features, both make excellent companions.
Wrapping It Up: A Minimalist Guide to Newborn Essentials
Navigating the early months of parenthood can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. With countless baby products on the market, it’s easy to get lost in the maze of options.
That’s why we’ve curated this comprehensive guide to help you discern what to buy for a newborn. From clothing and feeding to sleeping and playtime, we’ve covered the essentials that will make your life easier and your baby’s life more comfortable.
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For instance, opting for a quality baby carrier over multiple slings and wraps not only provides better support but also lasts longer, saving you both money and storage space.
Similarly, choosing a multi-functional toy like these smart bunnies can eliminate the need for separate night lights, music players, and storybooks. By making smart choices like these, you’ll not only save a considerable amount of money but also avoid the clutter that comes with accumulating too many single-purpose items.
As always, we champion a minimalist approach to parenting. It’s this philosophy that allows us to travel light with our children. By focusing on quality over quantity and versatility over single-use items, we not only simplify our daily routines but also make travel with little ones a breeze. The key is to invest in products that serve multiple purposes and grow with your child, ensuring you get the most bang for your buck and the least amount of hassle.
Thank you for joining us on this journey through the essentials for a newborn. We hope this guide serves you well as you welcome your little one into the world.
We hope to see you again when you’re ready to travel the world, so bookmark us, save the pins and subscribe to stay connected. Happy parenting!
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