mom holding bump and standing in nursery

7 Must Have Baby Items For Your Shopping List

Congratulations, mama-to-be! As you prepare for the arrival of your little one, you may find yourself feeling overwhelmed with the seemingly endless amount of baby products on the market. With so many options to choose from, it's hard to know what items are truly essential and what items are just nice-to-haves.

We know that you have enough on your plate already, and the last thing you want is to be spending your time and money on items that won't actually be useful. That's why we've put together a must have shopping list for a new baby. 

Don't worry, we've simplified it for you! We've considered all the important things you may or may not have thought about, so you can rest easy knowing that we've got you covered. From feeding and sleeping to diapering and safety, we've included everything you'll need to ensure a smooth and comfortable transition into parenthood.

So, take a deep breath and relax, mama. With our essential baby shopping list, you'll have one less thing to worry about. Let's dive in!

1. Baby Pram

baby sleeping in pram

As a new parent, choosing the perfect baby pram is a must have item on your baby shopping list. Not only will it be your trusty companion when it comes to transporting your little one around town, but it will also serve as a convenient storage space for your shopping and baby essentials.

When it comes to selecting the right baby pram, there are a few key factors to keep in mind. Firstly, consider the space underneath the pram for storing your shopping bags and diaper bag. You'll want to make sure you have enough room for everything you need.

Next, ensure that the pram is easy to manoeuvre, lightweight, and easy to fold and store. It's important to practice folding and storing the pram before your baby arrives so that you're comfortable doing it on the go.

When shopping for a pram, physically see it and play with it in the store before you buy it. This will give you a feel for how easy it is to use and how comfortable it is for your baby. You may even want to consider customising it with different colours to match your personal style.

It's also important to think about accessories such as a rain cover or sun cover, which can come in handy during different weather conditions. Additionally, some prams offer an attachable bassinet that keeps your baby safe and cozy while they sleep.

Finally, pick a pram that will grow with your baby so that you can use it for years to come. With these factors in mind, you'll be sure to find the perfect baby pram for your needs.

2. Baby Cots and Cribs

baby sleeping in cot

A must have item on your baby shopping list is a baby cot or crib. It's one of the most important investments you'll make for your new arrival. This cozy space is where your baby will spend most of their time sleeping and getting the rest they need to grow and develop.

When selecting a baby cot or crib, there are a few key factors to keep in mind. Firstly, you may decide to get a bassinet, which is smaller and more portable than a full-sized cot. This can be a great option for parents who want to keep their baby close by at night or during naps.

Regardless of which option you choose, it's important to ensure that the cot or crib is approved for sleeping and meets all relevant regulations and safety standards. Safety is paramount when it comes to your baby's sleep environment.

Look for cots or cribs with adjustable heights, which can be raised or lowered depending on your baby's age and development. This will help you ensure that your baby is always safe and secure while they sleep.

Finally, consider investing in a cot or crib that can grow with your baby. Many cots can be converted into toddler beds by removing the sides, which means you'll be able to use it for years to come.

With these factors in mind, you'll be able to select a baby cot or crib that is safe, comfortable, and perfect for your little one's needs.

3. Baby Car Seat

baby in car seat

A baby car seat is one of the most important purchases you'll make as a new parent. It's how you'll safely transport your baby home from the hospital and how you'll travel with them in the car.

When selecting a car seat, there are a few key factors to keep in mind. Firstly, you might choose a capsule-style car seat, which allows you to easily take your baby in and out of the car without waking them up. This can be especially convenient for parents who are always on the go.

Regardless of which type of car seat you choose, it's important to have it fitted by a professional. This ensures that the car seat is installed correctly and will keep your baby safe in the event of an accident.

Remember that car seats should always be rear-facing when your baby is little. You might also consider installing a mirror so that you can see your baby while they're in the car seat.

Finally, make sure that the car seat you choose fits in your car. Some cars have an iso-fix system that makes it easier to install a car seat, but it's always best to have a professional install it to ensure that it's done correctly and safely.

By keeping these factors in mind, you'll be able to select the perfect car seat for your baby, ensuring their safety and security on every car journey. It's an essential item to include on your first baby shopping list, providing you with peace of mind.

4. Baby Clothing

folded clothes in baby drawer

When it comes to newborn clothes, it's important to remember that babies go through a lot of them! From spit-ups to diaper leaks, you'll be changing your baby's clothes constantly. And since newborns grow so quickly, it's important to have plenty of clothes on hand to keep up with their changing size.

When shopping for newborn clothes, focus on the essentials. You'll want to have plenty of singlets to keep your baby's chest warm, as well as onesies that are easy to put on and take off. Look for onesies with zippers or buttons for convenience, and consider buying full suits that cover your baby's feet to keep them cozy and warm.

It's also important to have beanies and mittens on hand to keep your baby's head and hands warm. Baby fingernails grow quickly and can be surprisingly sharp, so mittens can help protect your baby from accidentally scratching themselves.

Finally, don't forget about socks! Your baby's feet can get chilly quickly, so make sure you have plenty of warm socks to keep them comfortable.

By stocking up on these essential items, you'll be well-prepared for your baby's arrival and can focus on enjoying those precious early moments together.

5. Nappies and Wipes

mom changing baby's nappy

When it comes to nappies and wipes, you'll soon realize that you can never have too many! Your baby will go through a lot of nappies in the first few months, and you'll quickly become an expert at changing them. However, when creating your newborn shopping list, it's important not to go overboard and overstock on nappies before your baby is born. Newborns grow quickly, and they may outgrow the newborn size nappies faster than you expect.

Make sure you have a good amount of nappies and wipes to get you through the first week or so after you bring your baby home from the hospital. It's better to be prepared and not have to worry about running out of supplies. Wipes are also multipurpose, and you'll find yourself using them for more than just nappy changes. They're great for wiping up spills, messes, and even cleaning your baby's face and hands.

Investing in a changing mat is a good idea to keep your baby clean and hygienic during nappy changes. You can use it on any clean surface, and it's easy to wipe down if there are any messy accidents. You may also decide to invest in a changing table, but it's not an essential item on your baby shopping list. As long as you have a clean, flat surface to change your baby on, you're good to go!

6. Baby Manchester & Towels

baby with hooded towel after bath

Baby Manchester, or baby bedding, is an essential part of preparing for your little one’s arrival. Fitted sheets are a must-have for your baby’s cot or crib, but make sure they meet safety standards and are the right size for the cot. A waterproof cover is also a great idea in case of messy nappies. It’s a good idea to have a few fitted sheets on hand, so you can quickly change the sheets if needed without worrying about washing them straight away.

Remember, safety is key when it comes to baby bedding. Ensure that the mattress fits snugly in the cot or crib with no gaps in between. By investing in good quality baby Manchester, you can create a comfortable and safe environment for your little one to sleep and grow in.

When it comes to bath time, you will need some soft baby towels to keep your little one warm and dry. Hooded towels are great for keeping baby’s head warm and protected after a bath. Don't forget to grab some soft face towels too, as they are multipurpose and can be used for bath time as a sponge or to wipe up spills and messes.

7. Baby Book

mom holding baby book

A baby memory book is often an overlooked item when preparing for a new arrival, but it is a must have item on your baby shopping list and is essential to cherish memories from the newborn stage. This stage only lasts for a short time, and you will want to look back and reminisce on those fleeting moments. Many moms receive a baby book as a gift at their baby shower and think they will have time to write in it. However, when the baby arrives, they soon realize that time flies by so quickly, and there is little time to fill in the pages.

Moms are often hesitant to write in the book because they want it to be perfect, so they keep avoiding it, and then end up with an empty book. That's where the Dujourbaby Memory Book App comes in handy. You can record memories at any time from anywhere, whether you're sitting on the couch or feeding your baby in the middle of the night. The best part is you can always go back and change answers, and you get timely reminders when your baby reaches a milestone to record memories. Download the app now and start recording your baby's precious memories.

Tips To Help You Buy the Best Baby Items

mom buying baby items on phone

Preparing for a new arrival is an exciting time, but it can also feel overwhelming when it comes to buying the best baby items, especially considering their milestones at one month old. To help you make the right choices, it's important to do your research. Read reviews from other parents and talk to friend moms who have been through the same experience. But ultimately, the best way to know if a product is right for you and your baby is to give it a go.

When you're shopping, go to the store and test out the product. This is especially important for items like strollers and car seats, which can be a big investment. Take the time to compare prices, value, and features to ensure you're getting the best product for your budget.

Remember that the cheapest or even the most expensive item doesn't always mean it's the best. Sometimes, a mid-range product can offer the best value for money. Finally, don't forget to trust your gut. If something doesn't feel right or doesn't suit your needs, it's okay to keep looking until you find the right item for you and your baby.

Preparing for a new baby can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience, but with these helpful tips and insights, we hope you feel confident in your purchases and can focus on enjoying the precious moments with your new bundle of joy.

Capture moments before they become blurry.

Beautiful moments with your precious baby won’t be ingrained in your memory forever. Ensure you document the wonderful early moments with your little one before it’s too late.

The Dujourbaby Memory Book App is a much easier way to build a baby book.

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