2025 Must-Haves for New Parents: Your Essential Checklist for Baby’s Arrival

Preparing to welcome your newborn into the world is an exciting yet sometimes overwhelming experience. Whether you’re in the final stretch of your pregnancy or just starting to plan, knowing what essentials to have in your hospital bag and at home can ease the journey into parenthood. As a newborn photographer and mum of two, I’ve compiled a list of 2025 must-haves for new parents to ensure you’re well-prepared for those first few precious weeks.

Hospital Bag Essentials for Mum and Baby

Packing your hospital bag in advance (by 36 weeks) will ensure you’re ready to go when the time comes. Here’s what you’ll need:

For Mum

1. Important Documents
   
   
   • Maternity notes and hospital paperwork.
2. Comfortable Clothing
   
   
   • Loose-fitting nightgowns or pyjamas.
   • A dressing gown and non-slip socks.
   • Comfortable clothes for the journey home (think stretchy leggings and a loose top).
3. Toiletries
   
   
   • Travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, and deodorant.
   • Lip balm (hospital air can be drying).
4. Postpartum Care
   
   
   • Maternity pads and disposable underwear.
   • Nipple cream and breast pads (whether breastfeeding or not).
5. Snacks and Drinks
   
   
   • High-energy snacks and a reusable water bottle.
6. Extras
   
   
   • Phone charger (extra-long cable is best).
   • Earplugs and an eye mask for better rest.

For Baby

1. Clothing
   
   
   • 3-5 newborn-sized sleepsuits and vests.
   • A hat, mittens, and socks.
2. Feeding Essentials
   
   
   • If bottle-feeding, pack sterilised bottles and formula.
3. Blankets and Muslins
   
   
   • A cosy blanket for swaddling.
   • Several muslin cloths for spills.
4. Going-Home Outfit
   
   
   • Weather-appropriate clothing.
5. Car Seat
   
   
   • Ensure it’s correctly installed in advance. Halfords has a very helpful instruction video I’d highly recommend. 

Home Essentials for a Newborn

Your baby’s arrival will bring immense joy, but having these essentials ready at home can make life much easier:

Sleeping

1. Moses Basket or Cot
   
   
   • Ensure it meets UK safety standards.
2. Mattress and Bedding
   
   
   • A firm, flat mattress with fitted sheets.
   • Baby-safe sleeping bags or swaddle blankets.

Feeding

1. Breastfeeding Essentials
   
   
   • Nursing bras, a breast pump, and milk storage bags.
2. Bottle-Feeding
   
   
   • Bottles, steriliser, and formula.
3. Burp Cloths and Bibs
   
   
   • Stock up on plenty.

Changing

1. Nappies and Wipes
   
   
   • Newborn-sized nappies (at least one pack to start).
   • Sensitive baby wipes or cotton wool.
2. Changing Station
   
   
   • A changing mat and a portable caddy for supplies.
3. Nappy Bin
   
   
   • A nappy disposal system can be a lifesaver.

Bathing and Skincare

1. Baby Bath or Support
   
   
   • A small tub or bath support for the sink.
2. Mild Baby Wash
   
   
   • Gentle, fragrance-free options are best.
3. Soft Towels
   
   
   • Hooded baby towels are ideal.
4. Nail Clippers
   
   
   • Baby-safe options to trim tiny nails.

Clothing

1. Season-Appropriate Outfits
   
   
   • Bodysuits, sleepsuits, and cardigans.
2. Laundry Detergent
   
   
   • A baby-friendly, non-bio detergent.

Travel

1. Pushchair or Pram
   
   
   • Choose one that’s lightweight and easy to manoeuvre.
2. Baby Carrier or Sling
   
   
   • Great for keeping baby close while having hands free.
3. Nappy Bag
   
   
   • A spacious bag with compartments for on-the-go essentials.

Health and Safety

1. Baby Monitor
   
   
   • Video monitors with motion detection are popular.
2. First Aid Kit
   
   
   • Include items like a baby thermometer and saline drops.
3. Room Thermometer
   
   
   • Ensure the nursery is kept at a safe temperature (16-20°C).

Pro Tips for New Parents

• Organisation is Key: Set up stations around your home for feeding, changing, and sleeping. This will save time and reduce stress.
• Lean on Your Village: Don’t hesitate to ask family and friends for help with meals, chores, or babysitting.
• Take It One Day at a Time: Every baby is different, so be flexible and trust your instincts.

By ticking off these 2025 must-haves for new paretns, you’ll feel more prepared to welcome your little one and enjoy those unforgettable early moments. Remember, preparation is essential, but it’s the love and care you provide that matter most!