Baby essentials: helpful things and what to skip

You’re resourceful people! This isn’t a shopping list, it’s inspiration.

Feeding

Healing: silverettes and lanolin cream to help your nipples heal.
Comfort: a nursing pillow to position your baby comfortably.
Clean-up: lots of reusable cloths. Reusable cotton nappy liners are super absorbent and great for any mess.
Pumping: do you want to pump? If so, which kind of pump fits your life?
Catching milk: a silicone manual pump (like a Haakaa) catches the milk that leaks from the other side while you feed, so you can freeze it.

Car seat: if you’re going home from hospital by car or taxi, you need an infant car seat (Babyschale).
Pram: think about where you’ll use it most. Something robust for the forest, or flexible for the city?
Carrier: do you both want to carry your baby? Look for one that adjusts easily to both your bodies.
Nappy bag: spare clothes, nappies and wipes, organised in small clear bags. Always pack a spare bag for dirty clothes.

For you: a waterproof cover for your own bed (soft cotton ones exist, not noisy plastic), so spills and leaks aren’t stressful.
For your baby: a bedside crib (Beistellbett) makes night feeds much easier. Sleep sacks or swaddles keep them warm safely.

Bleeding: the hospital gives you pads and mesh underwear at first; take some home if you like them. Heavy, unscented postpartum pads are best.
Bathroom care: a peri bottle is a lifesaver. Rinse with water instead of wiping while you heal. An old soap bottle works.
Recharging stations: set up two or three spots with burp cloths, snacks, water and a long phone charger next to your favourite chairs. You’ll be very hungry when breastfeeding.

Night lighting: keep it dim so you and your baby can fall back asleep. Motion-activated or USB nightlights work well in hallways and the bathroom.

Changing station: everything in one place, plus a smell-proof nappy bin.
Distraction: a high-contrast mobile above the changing mat.
Nappy rash: a thick barrier cream with zinc oxide.
Nails: newborn nails grow fast and are sharp. An electric baby nail file takes the stress out of trimming.
Clothes: wrap-style bodysuits. Skip tiny buttons and snaps when you’re sleep-deprived.

Baby-proofing: it will be months before they can reach sharp edges or open cupboards.
Toys and activity mats: newborns can barely see beyond 30 cm. Your face is their favourite toy.
Baby shoes: cute, but they won’t walk for a year. Soft socks are enough.
Wipe and bottle warmers: babies adjust to room-temperature wipes and milk just fine.
Cot bumpers: not only unnecessary but considered unsafe for sleep.

This guide is general information, not medical advice. For medical questions, contact your midwife or doctor.