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What do I need before my baby is born? The ultimate baby checklist.

What do I need before my baby is born? The ultimate baby checklist.

Preparing for a baby can be overwhelming. With so many possible bits of baby gear, it's hard to know what you really need. If only there was a checklist that you can print and tick off yourself for free…well look no further. 

In this article we compile all the necessary newborn items into an easy to use checklist. Either read them on this blog or download and print the PDF checklist to tick off yourself. 

Download the PDF

Your baby essentials:

For you (because you should still come first):

You deserve to be comfortable both during and after pregnancy. The best pregnancy pillow is one that can adjust to your needs at any specific point. From a softer U shaped pillow for relaxing on the sofa, to a firmer straight pillow that supports sleeping on your side, it should be flexible enough to mould to whatever your pregnant body craves. Najell’s smart and flexible pregnancy pillow can easily be adjusted according to your needs. And don’t think you need to buy a separate nursing pillow when this one offer 2 pillows in one… 

Read more on how to pick the right pillow for you

Maternity clothes should not just be comfortable. They should remind you just how incredible you are every time you get dressed. Whether it's maternity pants, nursing dresses or tops, good maternity clothes can be used from your bump to baby and beyond. The Najell Maternity Collection is designed to make you feel comfortable and confident every time you get dressed. Offering style and support throughout your pregnancy journey.

  • Comfortable underwear

  • Maternity pads

  • Breast pads

  • Nipple cream (trust us on this one).

Baby basics:

  • Diapers

And lots of them. 

  • Wipes

  • Dummy 

It’s good to have one ready, as well as a dummy clip to stop it from getting lost.

Feeding:

  • Bottles

3-5 if you will mostly breastfeed or 8-10 if you will mostly bottle feed.

  • Formula 

  • Breast pump

Muslin is a gentle and breathable material that’s perfect for their delicate skin. Perfect for nursing.

  • Bottle steriliser and warmer

There are other ways to sterilise and warm your bottles without purchasing equipment. Click here for NHS recommendations

  • Bottle brush for cleaning

  • Feeding bibs

Look for silicone for easy cleaning.

  • High chair

For when they are ready for solids.

Like we mentioned above, the best maternity pillows can be used both during and after pregnancy. Ideally you will want the option of two smaller nursing pillows that can be put together to make a larger body pillow. With the Najell Pregnancy Pillow, you can either use the longer pillow when nursing - or two of the smaller pillows inside. Meaning it can cater to whatever you or your baby needs to make nursing run smoothly.

Bath:

  • Baby bathtub

You can also find inserts for your sink.

  • Baby soap and shampoo

Having a soft cotton towel cape to put them in after bath time gets them dry and cozy much faster. 

Soft cotton washcloths are gentle against delicate baby skin.

  • Comb or brush

Clothing:

  • Onesies

As tempting as it is, don't go crazy, they grow out of these fast.

Look for soft materials like cotton or teddy so they will enjoy wearing it.

  • Socks

  • Sleepers

  • Swaddle Blankets

3 should be fine.

Newborn baby bibs or dribble bibs should be soft on the outside and absorbent inside. Look for a cotton or muslin dribble bib with absorbent inside to stay dry.

Nursery:  

  • Crib or bassinet

  • Fitted crib sheets

Be careful of loose material before they are 1 years old. 

Baby sleeping bags or sleep sacks eliminate the need for any blankets or covers. Look for a sleeping bag where you can adjust the temperature ie. removable extra inserts to make it warmer or cooler. The Najell Sleeping Bag is suitable for all seasons when used in combination with the Najell Sleeping Bag Warm Insert.

A crib mobile should be both calming and captivating so your baby can be both engaged and soothed. Calm, neutral  colours and interactive shapes are not only the perfect decorative touch to your baby’s nursery, but can also give them added stimulation.

  • Changing table

Baby nests, often referred to as newborn nests or baby pod nests, provide a secure and snug environment for your newborn. Make sure that the baby nest is breathable to ensure you have a safe space for supervised naps and lounging. Top Tip! Put the baby nest in the bed with you before the baby gets here so it picks up your scent. 

From cozy moments at home to staying on the move with a sleeping baby, Najell’s range of babynests are the best for making life with a newborn baby easier.

Read more common baby nest questions

  • Soft toys or rattles

  • Storage

Read more about how to plan your nursery

On-the-go:

Baby Carriers are a lifeline for most parents as you can keep your baby on your chest but with two free hands . The best baby carrier, or infant carrier, is one that works for your lifestyle. Do you want different carrying positions and be able to use it as a back baby carrier? Do you want to be able to use it as a newborn baby carrier from day 1? Either way, your baby carrier should be ergonomic and hip healthy, for it to be comfortable to use every day. All of Najell's baby carriers are recommended as hip healthy carriers by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute.

Read more common baby carrier questions

Just like a baby carrier, a newborn baby wrap is a great way to keep your baby close but stay hands free. The biggest difference is that baby wraps are usually made of softer fabric and not structured and are used primarily at home for those initial months. Look for a stretchy baby wrap that is either pre-tied or simple to use. Najell's pre-tied baby wrap has the simplicity of a baby carrier with the softness of a wrap. 

Read more reasons to use a wrap

  • Car Seat

    Non negotiable for those with a car. 

  • Pram

    Don’t be afraid to go second hand as long as it's in a good condition.

  • SleepCarrier

    The Najell SleepCarrier is a portable babynest that allows you to bring your sleeping baby wherever you go. It has handles, breathable air mesh sides and fits in all prams. Meaning you can continue to live life on your schedule, with your best friend napping by your side. 

  • Changing bag

    Look for a changing bag with multiple compartments for organisation. Great changing bags will also have thermo pockets, portable changing bags and be chic enough to use as a handbag once your baby is bigger.

  • Footmuff

    Look for a footmuff you will use throughout their early childhood, from day 1 to 3 years old. It should be water repellant, adapt to the weather and have universal fit. Najell's Footmuff is an award-winning footmuff that fits all strollers, and especially in your SleepCarrier, making it the only footmuff you need.

Read more on how to choose the right footmuff for you and your baby 

Remember you deserve to be cosy too! 

Health & Hygiene:

  • Baby thermometer

  • Nasal aspirator

  • Baby nail clippers or file

  • Baby monitor

  • Baby lotion or oil

  • Baby safe laundry detergent

  • Nappy rash cream

Wew! That probably feels like a lot of info. But don’t worry that is why we have compiled everything to an easy to use checklist that you can print and tick off yourself.

Download the PDF here

Najell Baby Essentials