Essential Newborn Items -That You May Not Have Thought About!
Becoming a new parent is full of surprises, and while there are plenty of baby products on the market, the essentials don’t have to cost a fortune. With the right tools, you can keep your baby safe, comfortable, and happy without breaking the bank. With so much advice, it’s easy to feel like you have to buy every product under the sun. But many “must-have” baby items turn out to be less essential than we’re led to believe. We’ve created a more realistic guide with some essential items for your newborn that you may not have thought of, but will definitely make your life a whole lot easier.
1. Baby nail clippers
One thing you might not expect. Your newborn may arrive with tiny but surprisingly sharp fingernails. While they’ve been growing in the womb, so have their nails! Newborns tend to move their hands around a lot, and without realising it, they can scratch their delicate faces.
Cutting those tiny nails might seem intimidating, especially for first-time parents. That’s why a set of baby nail clippers or, even better, baby nail files can be a game-changer. Baby files allow you to gently smooth down your little one’s nails without the fear of cutting too much or accidentally hurting them. These fuss-free files from Thumble are designed specifically for a newborn’s sensitive skin and nails, giving you peace of mind during what might otherwise be a nerve-wracking task.
2. Changing accessories
You might assume that a specially designed changing table is a must-have for nappy changes, but guess what? You can save yourself a lot of money by using furniture you already own! Many parents find that placing a changing mat on top of a sturdy dresser or desk works just as well. A good-quality changing mat, especially one with raised sides (like these ones from Little Bumble Co) to help keep baby in place, is more than enough to create a safe and comfortable changing area. Just be sure to always keep a hand on your little one to prevent any rolling accidents!
On the topic of nappy changes, let’s clear up another myth: nappy bins. Yes, they sound like a good idea, but they are essentially just glorified trash cans. Instead of spending money on a dedicated nappy bin, you can opt for a normal bin with a lid and empty it regularly to keep odours at bay. Many of the team here at The Positive Birth Company have found that using regular bin liners or plastic bags works just as well. Just take the rubbish out frequently, and you’ll have a fresh-smelling home without the added cost and plastic!
3. Baby bath tub
Your baby won’t need a bath after the first few days of their arrival whilst you’re waiting for the umbilical cord to fall off and so the goodness of vernix caseosa can soak in. However you will wash them soon after that, and for many people, your sink or bathtub may be suitable for baby baths, but that’s not always practical. Newborns are so tiny and need extra support, and baby bathtubs are designed with their small size in mind, often featuring ergonomic designs to support their head and body safely.
Look for tubs like the Shnuggle Bath, which are affordable, easy to store, and perfect for making bathtime a stress-free experience. These smaller tubs allow you to bathe your baby comfortably and safely while using less water. Plus, they fit into your home without taking up too much space.
4. Baby bedtime
We’re assuming you’ve already thought of a crib! But what about crib sheets and waterproof mattress covers? It’s a good idea to have at least 4 fitted sheets for your crib so if any accidents happen (and they will) you have a fresh set ready to put on, and a waterproof mattress cover to protect your mattress.
5. Babywearing wrap or carrier
A baby wrap or carrier may not be the first thing you think of when preparing for your newborn, but it can make your life so much easier. Babies love to be close to their parents, and babywearing allows you to keep them snug while having your hands free to get on with day-to-day tasks.
Many parents find that babywearing promotes bonding and often soothes a fussy baby. Look for soft, stretchy wraps for newborns, which allow for skin-to-skin contact and mimic the feeling of being in the womb. Carriers with adjustable straps and good lumbar support are perfect for longer walks or outings. Plus, having a hands-free option means you can move around more freely while keeping your baby close and content.
6. Muslin cloths
Muslin cloths are one of those versatile items you can never have too many of. They’re perfect for wiping up spit-up, using as a breastfeeding cover (if you wish to do so), swaddling your baby, or as a makeshift changing mat in a pinch. Their soft, breathable material is gentle on your baby’s skin, and they dry quickly after being washed, which is ideal for the inevitable laundry pile that comes with a newborn!
Having a stack of muslin cloths on hand will save you countless times throughout your baby’s first few months, and the great news is they don’t take up much room. They’re easy to fold up and pop into your changing bag for when you’re out and about. Psst. See our list of essential items for your changing bag here.
7. zipper sleepsuits
While baby clothes are always a popular baby shower gift, you may find that not all newborn outfits are as convenient as they look! Avoid clothes with too many buttons or complicated fastenings, especially for nighttime changes. Instead, opt for sleepsuits with zippers. These are much quicker to get on and off, especially when you’re changing your baby several times a night and don’t want to be fiddling with poppers in the dark.
Shopping Smart: Newborn Essentials on a Budget
Before you head out to buy everything brand new, remember that there are plenty of ways to shop smart and save money. At The Positive Birth Company, we’re big fans of second-hand shopping—whether it’s for clothes, nursery furniture, or baby accessories, you can often find barely-used items at a fraction of the cost. Websites like Vinted and Facebook Marketplace are fantastic places to browse for baby bargains. Many parents sell items that their little ones have outgrown in just a few months, so you’re likely to find high-quality pieces in great condition.
Good luck, and happy shopping from all of us here at The Positive Birth Company! x
