Newborn essentials: an honest checklist

Expecting a baby and the lists online have sixty items? Breathe. A newborn needs surprisingly little — and most of it is textile.

What you'll actually use

• 6–8 muslin cloths — burping, covering, everything.
• 2–3 blankets — muslin for summer, minky or knit for winter.
• 1–2 swaddles, 2 hooded towels, 4–6 bibs, 2 fitted sheets, a beanie and mittens.

What to skip

Wipe warmers, ten size-50 bodysuits — and cot bumpers and nests, which paediatricians advise against for safe sleep.

Where not to cut corners

Anything touching baby skin. Look for OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 — independent testing for hundreds of harmful substances. All our products carry it.