Newborn essentials: What do you need before the baby arrives?

One of the most common questions expectant parents ask is, "What do we actually need before the baby arrives?" And that makes total sense. A whole new world is opening up, and it's natural to want to feel a little prepared before you meet it.

To help you cut through the noise, we've put together a list of products that many parents find genuinely useful in the first weeks and months. This isn't a checklist you need to complete before your baby arrives, and it's definitely not a measure of how ready - or how good - a parent you're going to be. Every family does things differently, and plenty of parents figure things out with far less than what's on this list, or add things later once they know what they actually need. Think of this as a starting point to explore, not a requirement.

Things worth having on your radar

1. A pram

For a lot of families, a pram becomes something they use daily - for naps, for fresh air, for simply getting out of the house. If you decide to get one, it's worth doing a bit of research: try out a friend's, ask around, or test a few in store. A pram you feel comfortable with, that suits your day-to-day life, tends to make the biggest difference.

2. Baby clothes

You'll likely be changing outfits often, so clothes that are quick and easy to put on and take off are a small thing that saves a lot of hassle. What you'll need also depends on the season — warm layers and a beanie for a winter baby, airy fabrics and a sun hat for a summer one.

A gentle heads-up: newborn clothes are irresistibly cute, and it's easy to want them all. Just know that babies outgrow the newborn size faster than most people expect, so buying a little at a time (or accepting hand-me-downs) is a perfectly good approach too.

3. Nappies

One of the few genuinely universal needs on this list - however you choose to feed, dress, or carry your baby, you'll be going through a lot of these.

4. Baby carrier

A baby carrier or wrap is one option some parents love for staying close to their baby while keeping their hands free — handy for everything from cooking to just moving around the house. Many parents also find that babies settle and doze off more easily when carried close. It's entirely a matter of preference, though; some families use a carrier constantly, others barely touch one, and both are completely fine.

If it's something you want to explore, our carriers are designed to be ergonomic and easy to get the hang of. Explore baby carriers here.

5. A baby nest, like the SleepCarrier

Baby nests have become a popular option for parents who want a soft, cosy, portable space for their newborn to sleep or rest in — indoors or out. With a baby nest that has handles, like the Najell SleepCarrier, you can move your sleeping baby without necessarily waking them, and it doubles as a soft carrycot and play mat. It's one of those products that isn't essential for everyone, but that some parents find makes daily life noticeably easier.

Curious whether a baby nest with handles is worth it? Here's a closer look.

6. Car seat

If you'll be travelling by car, a properly fitted car seat is one of the few non-negotiables — this is a safety essential rather than a "nice to have." It's worth comparing models and reading independent product tests before you buy. For guidance on choosing the right seat for your child, this government-backed resource is a good place to start.

7. A cot or bed for baby

Many newborns end up sleeping close to a parent for at least part of the night, whether that's co-sleeping, room-sharing, or using a bedside crib — every family finds its own rhythm here. Even so, it's often worth having some kind of bed sorted out in advance, so you're not scrambling to buy one once the baby's already here. If you like the idea of having your baby nearby without sharing a sleep surface, Najell SleepCarrier is designed for exactly that.

8. Breast pump

If breastfeeding or pumping is part of your plan, a breast pump can be useful for building a milk supply, sharing feeding duties with a partner, or simply having a backup ready. It's not something every parent needs — plenty feed without ever using one — but for those who do want one, they're widely available at pharmacies and baby stores. Medela is a well-known option, and Willowpump offers a portable, wearable design for parents who want to pump on the go.

9. Breast milk alternatives

It's genuinely common for breastfeeding to not go the way you expected, or not happen at all — and that's nothing to feel bad about. Having a backup option on hand means you're not caught out if you need one, whatever the reason.

10. A pregnancy or nursing pillow

An often-overlooked one. A good pillow can support your neck, back, and legs during pregnancy, and later help position your arms and baby comfortably during feeds. It's a small addition that a lot of parents say they wish they'd bought sooner — though of course, plenty manage perfectly well with the pillows they already have at home.

If you do want a dedicated one, Najell's Pregnancy Pillow adjusts in firmness and shape, with two integrated nursing pillows that can be used full-length or separately.

11. Baby bottles

Useful if you're using milk alternatives, sharing feeding with a partner, or just want the flexibility. Comotomo is one popular choice, designed to be easy for babies to handle and simple to clean.

12. Something just for you

Easy to forget on a list about the baby — but worth including. A cosy blanket, a good pair of slippers, whatever makes those long nights and early mornings a bit more comfortable for you. Looking after yourself is part of looking after your baby.

Another list you might find useful

If your due date is getting close, it might be worth packing your hospital bag ahead of time. We've put together a complete checklist here.