Everything You Need to Know as a New Mom: Preparing for Your Baby’s Arrival
A fuss-free guide to help you feel ready, supported, and a little more in control.
We have all seen our mothers accomplish multiple tasks simultaneously, from cooking to cleaning, feeding the dog, and finding the lost pair of socks, all while juggling a work call. And while these are mom superpowers, they aren’t something that she picked up overnight. She once started somewhere, too, as a lost first-time mom. A lot of practice (and failures) + a little bit of prior prep is what helped her become the super mom. Becoming a new mom is exciting, emotional, and often….overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together this gentle guide to simplify the chaos with ready-to-go checklists, practical tips, and a few comforting reminders (cause you’re doing great!).
The postpartum phase is essential and usually what new mothers tend to focus on the most. However, the key to a slightly smoother birth journey lies in prepartum preparation. From prepping the hospital bag in advance to meal prepping for the first week postpartum, these tasks can help alleviate a lot of stress from your mind.
| In this article: Baby Essentials |
Things to Do Before Baby’s Arrival
Before you welcome your baby, there are a few things you need to prepare for (both yourself and the baby). It will be a fun, daunting, yet exciting task, and we are here to help make it less daunting to go through.
Baby Essentials
First things first, you will need to prepare some baby essentials. And this is usually the most enjoyable part, but also where most parents tend to get carried away. The cute baby clothes, booties, cribs and accessories can be tempting to overstock on. But what you do need to keep in mind when shopping for your baby is that babies grow QUICKLY. Hence, it’s better to buy in smaller batches to avoid burning a hole through your pocket. But don’t worry, we have a complete list of things you’ll need to prepare for your little one’s arrival.
Clothing
Image: Kinousses | Pinterest
Baby clothes are tiny, super cute and also easy to overstock on. However, keep in mind that cute doesn’t always equal comfy. Your baby will need multiple changes daily, so soft, breathable basics are essential. Choose comfortable styles that are easy to put on and take off, especially during diaper changes. These are our must-haves for newborn babies (for up to 3 months):
- 5-7 onesies (Look for snap-bottom ones with an envelope neck; this allows you to pull them down instead of over the head)
- 4-5 footed sleepers (try to go for zip-up for easier use)
- 2-3 swaddle cloths
- 2-3 hats
- 4-6 pairs of socks or booties
- No scratch mittens
💡Washing Tip: Newborn skin is particularly sensitive, so opt for a gentle, all-natural detergent specifically formulated for babies. Our new Baby-Safe Laundry Detergent Sheets are ultra-gentle, easy to use, and perfect for delicate baby clothes, providing clean, soft results with no harsh residues.
Feeding
Image: Hegen UK | Pinterest
Whether you’re breastfeeding or bottle feeding, start with just the essentials; you can always add on later. Try a few bottle types before committing to a complete set.
- 2-4 bottles + newborn nipples
- Nursing pillow (optional but supportive)
- 6-8 burp cloths
- Bottle brush + drying rack
- Bottle steriliser
If you plan to breastfeed your newborn, you will need a few additional items.
- Breast pump (only if you are planning to pump)
- Milk storage bags (only if you are planning to pump)
- Nipple cream + nursing pads
Diapering
Image: Peachy Bum
Babies go through 8-12 diapers a day, especially during the newborn stage, so comfort, skin-friendliness, and practicality are crucial. It’s best to stock just enough infant size for the first 2–3 months, as babies size up quickly.
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1-3 packs of Diapers (Choose the newborn size, and avoid buying in bulk too early)
Tip: Newborns have extra sensitive skin, so it’s essential to choose diapers that are gentle, breathable, and free from harsh additives. Consider our Cloud Soft Diapers, thoughtfully designed to be hypoallergenic and featuring a plant-based wetness indicator, providing comfort, dryness, and peace of mind with every change. - 2-3 large boxes of baby wipes (fragrance-free and alcohol-free)
- 1 tube of diaper rash cream
- Changing pad + portable mat
- A diaper caddy or organiser for easy access
💡Diaper Tip: Tape-style diapers are ideal for newborns, providing a snug fit and making changes easier. As your little one starts moving more, pants-style diapers can be a game-changer.
Nursery
Image: Babyletto | Pinterest
Baby’s room should be both calming and practical. While cute decor is fun, your focus should be on safe sleep, functional furniture, and tools that make daily care easier and more efficient.
- Crib, mini crib or bassinet (choose what fits your space)
- Firm, flat crib mattress that fits snugly (no more than a 2-finger gap)
- 2-4 fitted crib sheets (for quick bedding swaps)
- Rocking chair or glider (ideal for feeds, cuddles, and wind-down time)
- Baby monitor (helps you keep an eye from anywhere)
- Changing table or dresser with changing pad (multi-use furniture is a plus)
Travel Gear
Image: Emily | Pinterest
Outings with a baby don’t need to be overwhelming. With the right gear, you’ll be ready for anything, whether it’s a quick grocery run or a full day out.
- Infant car seat (a newborn essential for safe travel)
- Stroller (choose one that’s compact, lightweight, and easy to fold)
- Baby carrier will be ideal for hands-free movement
- Diaper bag (One with multiple compartments, wipeable lining, and space for diapers, wipes, clothes, and bottles)
- Portable changing mat (makes diaper changes easy and hygienic anywhere)
- Wet/dry bag (for storing used clothes, burp cloths)
- 2-3 Pacifiers
- Pacifier clip (optional, but helps keep pacifiers clean and off the ground)
💡Travel Tip: Keep your diaper bag stocked with a mini version of your at-home setup, just enough for feedings, outfit changes, and unexpected messes on the go.
Good to have
Image: Lovevery | Pinterest
While not essential from the start, these extras can add comfort, convenience, and a touch of fun to you and your baby’s daily routine. We suggest waiting to see what your baby (and your lifestyle) actually need before investing.
- Baby swing or bouncer (some babies love the motion while others don’t)
- Playmat or baby gym (great for tummy time and early sensory play)
- Teethers (especially helpful when those first teeth start to come in)
- Bottle warmer (convenient, but warm water in a mug can work just as well)
💡Tip: Baby preferences are wildly different. What’s a lifesaver for one parent might be unused clutter for another, so the best advice is to buy as you go, not just in case.
While baby prep often takes centre stage, don’t forget to care for yourself too. Small things like prepping your hospital bag early, sorting out paperwork, meal prepping for the first week home postpartum, or even setting up a cosy corner for feeding and recovery at home can go a long way in helping you feel calm and ready. Taking care of your future self is a form of self-care; treat it like one.
When to Start Preparing Your Hospital Bag?
While it is recommended that parents start packing the bag at 38 weeks, it is also possible that your child may arrive earlier than expected. Hence, as an extra measure, it is better to start packing your hospital bag at 36-38 weeks to avoid any last-minute panics.
Pack your bag along with your partner, who will accompany you to the hospital, so you have someone to double-check the checklist with you and make sure you and the baby have everything you might need. Once packed, keep the bag near the door or in your car, ready to go any time you need it.
What Should I Pack In My Hospital Bag?
There are 4 main things to cover in your hospital cover checklist.
1. Admin Document
- Admission Letter from your doctor
- Identification Document
2. Essentials for Baby
- Bodysuits to wear at the hospital
- Socks. Newborns can get cold easily, so it’s a good idea to bring some socks just in case.
- Newborn hat
- Baby blankets to keep your baby warm, especially on the ride back home.
- Going home outfit.
- Diapers
- Wet wipes
- Tissue box
3. Essentials for Mom
- Nightgown
- Compression socks
- Underwear/bras
- Jacket/cardigan to keep warm at the hospital
- Going home outfit
- Slippers/Flip flops
- Personal toiletries
- Nipple cream
- Breast pump
- Heavy-duty maternity pads
- Snacks and drinks
4. Essentials for Partner
- Phone and charger
- Camera
- Personal toiletries
- Clothes
- Snacks and drinks
It can be easy to get carried away and overpack, especially since this is your first birth. However, I can tell you that you don’t need four pairs of nightgowns or two full packs of diapers in your hospital bag. There may also be certain items that aren’t allowed at some hospitals, so it’s best to check with your hospital before you fully pack.
Bringing a baby into the world is no small feat, and there’s no one “perfect” way to prepare. Every mom’s journey is unique, but having the right essentials, a calm mindset, and a little planning can help you start this next chapter with more confidence and less stress. Be kind to yourself, lean on your support system, and remember: you’ve got this, mama. 💛
Here's a downloadable version of all our checklists above:
