Baby market essentials: a practical newborn checklist

Sleep: keep it simple

A firm, flat mattress and a fitted sheet are the whole setup. Fitted sheets are the item you will wash most, so three is a sensible number. Skip bumpers, pillows and loose blankets — they are not recommended for infant sleep.

• Three fitted sheets that match your mattress size.
• Two lightweight sleep sacks in the current size.
• A dim, warm light for night feeds.

Feeding: buy for the method you are using

If you are breastfeeding, start with a pump only if you need one; many people buy before they know what their supply and routine will look like. If you are formula feeding, a set of bottles and a drying rack covers the basics.

Whichever route you take, buy two extra bottles rather than a twelve-piece set. You will learn quickly which shape your baby accepts.

• Four bottles in the size you will use first.
• A bottle brush with a separate teat brush.
• Muslin squares — buy more than you think.

Bath and changing

A baby bath is useful for the first few months, but a clean sink works too. What matters is a stable surface, a towel within reach and never leaving the baby unattended.

• A small bath or a bath support.
• Two hooded towels.
• A changing mat with raised edges.
• Fragrance-free wash for the first months.

Travel and outings

You need one bag that works for quick trips, not a suitcase. Pack a change of clothes, two nappies per hour of travel, wipes, a muslin and a spare bag for soiled items.

For the pram, a rain cover and a sunshade are worth having before the first long walk. Everything else can be added later.

What to skip until you need it

Skip newborn shoes, a full wardrobe in newborn size, and any gadget that promises to solve sleep. Babies grow through sizes quickly, and sleep tools are highly individual.

Keep receipts and do not remove tags until you have used an item once. Returns are easier when the packaging is intact.