Baby essentials checklist: newborn baby must-haves

Any new parent knows that the first few months are an endless back and forth to the sink to wash, dry, sterilise, repeat. From breast pump parts to bottles and teats and dummies, the endless cycle of sterilising and the fear around dirt it is relentless. But the Tommy Tippee 3-in-1 UV steriliser makes it all so much easier. Just pop clean, wet items inside and let it do its thing, safe in the knowledge everything will come out baby safe in 35 mins. It’s even been tested against Covid and the flu virus so, you know, it will have its uses even after the baby stars eating dirt and sterilising goes out the window.

Our Cosmo tester would consider this their number one recommendation for any new parent: it fits neatly onto the kitchen counter and makes life enormously easier.

Planning on breastfeeding? The single most important thing you can buy for your new lactating boobs is a comfortable nursing bra. This wire-free one is super soft and stretchy so it will adjust to your changing shape, while drop down cups will keep your hungry baby in check.

Mum hack: use washable nursing pads to mop up leaks while your milk supply regulates. And if your nipples start to crack, pop some Lansinoh nipple cream in your shopping cart.

Feeding you precious new baby is a going to be non stop. Whether you're going for bottle or breast or a combi approach, a great nursing pillow is a must.

We are obsessed with this bbhugme one which we recommend to all our pregnant friends . But the truth is it can also hurt like hell, and not just your nipples. To stave off back pain and provide a perfect little shelf for your hungry baby, treat yourself to a nursing pillow. This one comes with a beanbag filling to mould gently round your body, so your newborn can snuggle up at 4am.

Mum hack: if you're struggling with breastfeeding, you don't have to soldier on. It can take time to master the art of breastfeeding, and it can be painful. For some women it's a smooth ride and for others its hard-won. Whatever you do, know it's entirely your decision whether you continue or not. Visit La Leche League for advice, support and insight from other mothers.

Sure, newborns are cute, but don't forget they're also pooping, puking, dribbling machines that ruin all soft furnishings within a mile radius. To mop up spills, stash a spare muslin square in every single pocket you own. This cute set from John Lewis makes the whole process a little cheerier. They also make a great makeshift sun shade, an emergency bib, a comforter and a good old game of peekaboo.

Mum hack: muslin cloths can get a bit rough for baby's skin, so for bath time or face wipes, we're a big fan of these reusable microfibre washcloths from Cheeky Wipes.

The perfect baby bed debate is a hot topic for all new parents. Should you go for a traditional Moses basket, a side crib or save your pennies and co-sleep? The truth is, the ideal sleeping arrangements for your tiny tribe is a personal choice that only you can make. But if you're on the fence, a Moses basket is a great option. This classic crib has been crafted with palm leaf and comes with a knitted lining. The simple stand makes it easy to assemble right by your bed, while handles mean you can transport your sleepy cherub easily about the house.

Bored of pink and blue? Stick two fingers up at generic baby clothes and let your little one stand out in this pure cotton little sun and baby bear print sleepsuit. It's more than just a cute best seller though, zip-up rompers are game-changing when it comes to speedy late-night nappy changes.

Mum hack: for affordable baby stuff, check out John Lewis' Anyday range. It includes loads of cost-effective essentials including this tiger inspired sleeping bag and cot bedding.

Working mamas take note! Expressing is a great way to store milk supplies for future use and keep your baby fed when you go back to the office. But with meals to cook and Tiktoks to watch, how do you find time to sit about and pump milk in this modern world? Fortunately technology has raised the booby bar. Now you can buy a whisper-quiet wearable electric breast pump that is so discreet, you can pop it into your bra and express milk on the move. Genius. We've tried this one and it really does take the stress out of pumping.

Baby bath time is arguably one of the most pleasurable aspects of becoming a new parent, but navigating splashing water plus temperature control can be a bit scary for everyone. To sidestep anxiety, this clever seat will gently cradle your little one in the tub without fully immersing them in water, leaving your hands free to tickle their tiny toes.

Mum hack: to get the temp just right, pop a baby bath thermometer in your shopping cart while you're here (and you definitely need this adorable hooded duck towel too).

New babies don't tend to move about too much, but before you know it the world becomes their playground and they're ready to explore. If you have a hard floor, curious pets, or you simply want to create a safe space for your little one to practise tummy time, play mats are essential kit for energetic rug rats. This one features 5 sensory toys, a comfortable play surface, and a unique water mat to allow for portable, mess-free aquatic play to support your baby's sensory development while they roll happily about.

Once your tiny person is able to support their own head and sit up unaided, they will be able to join you at the dining table. But this clever baby chair is no ordinary piece of kit. It also works as a play-station, a booster seat for when they get older and a highchair for learning how to eat.

Mum hack: Pop these silicone bibs in your shopping cart while you're here for (marginally) less messy mealtimes, and don't forget the sippy cup!

Bouncers are more than just a handy place to park your bubba while you have a kitchen disco/hang out the laundry. They're also rather useful for soothing fussy tots, and they can help little ones develop spacial awareness too. This one's suitable from birth up to 9kgs, plus it comes with dangling elephants to provide a welcome distraction from your dodgy Mum dancing skills.

Sophie la girafe might not sound like an essential piece of kit. But trust us, when your baby's first gnashers start to emerge, you'll be relieved you joined the fan club. Produced in the same small factory in eastern France for over 60 years now, the teething toy is so universally popular, annual sales often exceed the local birth rate where it's made. The rubber toy is a big hit with babies and parents alike, thanks to its perfectly sized knobbly ears, squeaky neck, and magical sore gum soothing properties.

Mum hack: during the summer, pop some Nuby Puree Moulds filled with juice and water into the freezer for a cooling fruity teether.

Investing in a special cocoon purely for baby chill-time might sound wildly extravagant – but trust us, when you're juggling a newborn at home and desperate to shower/pee/make some tea, you will be very grateful for this ingenious product. It's essentially a pod with raised sides to prevent your little one from rolling over, but the peace of mind this clever piece of kit provides is priceless.

Desperate for some kip? Swaddling is said to mimic the feeling of still being in the womb, so it's a great option for keeping fractious babies cosy and calm. However, perfecting your burrito-wrapping skills late at night can also be a total faff. Thankfully, this pre-made breathable cotton swaddle comes with Velcro fastenings, so you can wrap up your tot in milliseconds and (hopefully) all get some shut-eye.

Mum hack: if your mini-me prefers freedom of arm movement, we're also big fans of this classic cellular blanket.

Spoiler alert: babies poo a lot. And once it starts coming thick and fast and your little one learns to wriggle, you'll be grateful for a safe (and wipe-clean) space to perch them while you change a multitude of nappies. This jazzy leaf print mat has slightly raised sides to prevent your tot from rolling off. Not a fan of the tropics print? There's 19 designs to choose from.

Mum hack: for biodegradable and hypoallergenic nappies, check out Kit & Kin, the eco brand co-founded by Spice Girl Emma Bunton – AKA Baby Spice!