
The perfect baby essentials: A guide for expectant parents
The birth of a child is a wonderful and exciting moment that brings with it many changes. You may be wondering: What things do we really need for our baby? The selection is vast, but not everything that comes onto the market is necessary. In this blog post, we at sandiia Babycarrier want to help you get an overview of the essential baby essentials. We'll focus on the most important categories: clothing, sleeping, care, mobility, and breastfeeding.
1. Clothing for the newborn
Newborns grow incredibly quickly in the first few weeks of life, so it's important to keep their wardrobe practical and manageable. Basics should be made of skin-friendly materials like cotton to avoid irritating their delicate skin.
Clothing checklist:
- Bodysuits : 6-8 pieces, ideally with side snap fasteners to make it easier to put on and take off.
- Rompers : 4-6 pieces, comfortable and without scratchy labels.
- Tops and pants : 3-4 sets, with wide cuffs and soft fabric.
- Hats : 2-3 pieces, for indoors and outdoors.
- Socks : 4-5 pairs to keep your feet warm.
- Jacket or overalls : Depending on the season, either a light overall or a warm winter jacket.
- Pajamas : 3-4 pieces, preferably with foot parts.
Tip: It's better to choose clothes in size 56 or 62, as babies often grow out of size 50 faster.
2. Sleeping: Safe and secure
In the first few months, your baby spends most of his or her time sleeping. A safe and comfortable sleeping environment is therefore especially important.
Sleep checklist:
- Baby bed or side bed : A side bed is particularly practical because the baby sleeps close to you but still has its own protected space.
- Mattress : A firm and breathable mattress without chemical additives.
- Sleeping bag : 2-3 sleeping bags of the appropriate size. Sleeping bags are safer than blankets because they can't slip.
- Bed sheets : 2-3 fitted sheets that fit the mattress exactly.
- Baby monitor : A baby monitor provides security when your baby is sleeping and you are in another room.
Tip: Make sure to keep the sleeping environment free of stuffed animals, blankets and pillows to minimize the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
3. Care: Hygiene and well-being
Proper care is crucial for your baby's well-being. Especially in the first few weeks, caring for them can be challenging, but with the right equipment, it's much easier.
Care checklist:
- Changing table or changing mat : A stable changing place at a comfortable working height.
- Diapers : A supply of newborn diapers, either disposable or cloth.
- Wet wipes or washcloths : Gentle, fragrance-free wipes or washable cotton washcloths.
- Changing mats : 2-3 for on the go.
- Baby bathtub or bath bucket : A small bathtub or bath bucket to bathe the baby safely.
- Bath thermometer : To check the water temperature at about 37 degrees.
- Baby towels : 2-3 soft hooded towels.
- Care products : A mild baby soap, baby oil and possibly diaper rash cream.
- Brush and scissors : A baby brush for the first hair and baby scissors for the fingernails.
Tip: Less is more! Avoid unnecessary care products, as your baby's skin is still very sensitive.
4. Mobility: Safe on the road
Whether it's a walk in the park or a trip to the pediatrician, a good transport system makes life with a baby much easier. A combination of a carrier and stroller is particularly practical.
Mobility checklist:
- Baby carrier : An ergonomic baby carrier like our sandiia baby carrier offers your baby closeness and security while you have your hands free.
- Stroller : A combination stroller with a carrycot or baby bath is ideal.
- Car seat (Group 0/0+) : A safe car seat for newborns is required by law.
- Diaper bag : A spacious bag with compartments for diapers, wipes, a change of clothes and bottles.
- Rain and sun protection : A rain cape and parasol for strollers and baby carriers.
- Play arch or grasping toy : For entertainment on the go.
5. Breastfeeding and nutrition
Whether you are breastfeeding or bottle feeding, some aids are useful in both cases.
Breastfeeding checklist:
- Nursing pillow : A nursing pillow supports a relaxed posture.
- Nursing pads or absorbent bras : To protect your clothes from leaking milk.
- Breast pump : Optional, but helpful for expressing milk.
- Bottles and teats : If you want to supplement or are not breastfeeding, you should have 3-4 bottles ready.
- Sterilizer : For cleaning bottles and teats
Tip: Breastfeed when you need to and ensure a comfortable breastfeeding environment – good preparation makes the initial period easier.
Extras for comfort and fun
In addition to the categories mentioned above, there are other products that can enrich everyday life with a baby. These include:
- Baby toys : rattles, fabric books and grasping rings for the first sensory experiences.
- Cuddly blanket : A soft blanket for on the go or for cuddling.
- Playpen : A safe play