Baby Cot / Crib with Mattress

We used two different cots as they were both handed over to us. The first one was a modestly priced model from Carrefour, and it was only good while the baby was small. Once she grew older, it got a bit squeezy even for a small baby. The only advantage of this was that it was lightweight and had wheels, so we could push it around our small bedroom.

Much prefer the bigger American sized one - it was big and sturdy. Very important if you plan to sleep train your baby because the baby will stand up as he gets older and you want to know he is in a safe place.

A mosquito net is also very helpful, especially if you do not plan to sleep in an air-conditioned room. We saved our babies from some mosquito bites as a result.

Moses Basket

This is not a necessity, as it is bulky to carry around, and baby outgrows it in a matter of four weeks! However, my cousin passed me hers and we used it during baby's first month celebration. Quite charming :) Baby outgrew it in 2 months.

Crib bumper

This needs to be put on only when baby starts to roll around, by about the third month.

Pillow and bolster

Infant pillow and bolster comes in handy by baby's second month.

Blanket

Baby tends to kick it aside with ease. I found it much easier to have baby wear a full-length romper if it gets chilly.

Waterproof mat / matress protector

Waterproof mat is absolutely necessary, and can be obtained cheaply. Place it between the mattress and the mattress cover.

Receiving Shawl

Most hospitals give these away as a gift for baby, so don't bother purchasing one. In any case, a good-old piece of nappy can perform the same function.

Baby bath / tub

A simple one will do. Check for the edges - I notice that some cheaper tubs have very rough edges which may cut baby's little fingers by the time he starts to hold on to the edges for support.

Non-slip pad

Useful only when baby starts to sit up. However, make sure you clean them thorough and not allow mold to grow underneath! Most tubs are good enough as they are.

Very soft face towel

Good to invest in high-quality ones.

Bath towel

These days, hooded towels are readily available. They are useful especially when baby is still very small. However, baby soon outgrows them by the time they hit three months.

Baby lotion and bathing lotion

No need for shampoo at this early stage. Most top-to-toe ones are enough.

Baby oil

I didn't really use these, though I know some mothers use natural baby oils to massage their babies.

Baby powder

Good for keeping baby dry and cool, but take care not to over-use.

Baby nail-clipper / blunt-ended scissors

Extremely important. Babies scratch themselves alot and you want to spare yourself the heartache of seeing baby's faces scratched. The blunt-ended scissors were very easy and safe to use on an infant's tiny and tender finger-nails. Many mothers swear by them. You can then progress to using the baby nail-clipper as you become more confident.

Comb and brush set

Depends on your baby's needs...all my babies were nearly bald so there was no need for such.

Cotton balls / buds

You need to keep baby's little ears clean...remember to soak them in water before using on baby.

Changing Mat

1

This is an essential to prevent urine from soaking through while changing the nappy.

Nappy Liners

1-3 box

You'll need lots of these if you are using nappies. Even if you are not, it is good to have some box handy as you will find the absorbent nature of the liners useful. (Tip: can be used as a shield between your nipple and the breast pad in the beginning, if you cut them out into round shapes.)

Clothe diapers

12 - 24

Two dozens at least if you are planning to use nappies. Even if not, again it is extremely to purchase a box of them - can be used as blankets on warmer days, or to swaddle the newborn. Or as a base for any surface when going on outings etc. It is soft and multi-purpose.

Safety pins

6

To fasten the clothe diapers. Otherwise, no need for it.

Plastic pants

0

To cover clothe diapers, but I didn't use any as they are too hot for baby. Parents I know also do not have use for these.

Disposable diapers

1 big pack

Even for newborns. Pampers Premium, though expensive, does indeed feel more delicate against the skin, and is not bulky.

Wet tissue

3 big packs

Extremely handy. Pigeon brand - good textured surface. Tolly-joy is more economical but the wipes are also smaller.

Diaper rash cream

1

Favourite brands include Drapolene and Pureen (which has a nice thick texture for good coverage and is extremely affordable).

Baby powder

1

Do not overdo it. Also, you may want a powder puff.

Cotton balls

2-3 rolls/
Packets

More economical to buy the cotton in a roll and tear it into pieces yourself.

Buckets

2

One for dirty nappies that need soaking, other other for cleaner items that don't require soaking, together with baby clothes.

Short-sleeve button front or tie-front / wide necked cotton tee shirts

6 - 8

About 6 is enough, and you'll find your collection suddenly enlarged after the gifts start streaming in after baby's birth, so go easy on them. Button-fronts or tie-fronts are usually easier on little babies.

Long-sleeve button front

3

Depending on your baby's tolerance for heat. But really useful for going out to air-conditioned places.

Long pants

4

At least 4.

Rompers/stretch suits

4

Useful especially as baby grows older and is not swaddled when sleeping. Ensures that baby's tummy does not get exposed, as might happen with two-piece sleep wear.

Baby Socks and Mittens

3 sets

Mittens absolutely necessary, to prevent baby accidentally scratching his face. Personally have found baby socks much more effective than booties.

Shorts

2

Basically to cover the disposable diaper when going out...I was happy to have baby wearing just her diapers when at home.

Sleep Suits

3

Optional. Advantage: covers baby from neck downwards, including his little feet.

Steriliser

1

You can buy a steam sterilizer or sterilise by boiling or immersing in solution.

Milk Bottles

2

Needed even if you are breastfeeding, for the expresesd breast milk. Start with the smallest size available. If you are not breastfeeding, 4 bottles.

Bottle teats (extra)

2 - 4

Depending on the frequency of your bottle-feeding and sterilizer.

Milk Powder

1 - 2

Even if you are breastfeeding it is good to have a can on stand-by.

Milk Powder container

1

For travelling.

Thermos flask

1

Essential to keep water warm, especially appreciated in the middle of the night.

Pacifier with cover

1

Depends on whether you are keen to have baby take to a pacifier, but useful to have around anyway.

Bottle and nipple cleaning liquid

1

Important - used for cleaning bottles.

Bottle and nipple brushes

1

Important - used for cleaning bottles.

Breast pads

1 box

You'll need them especially in the first few months where the milk supply is not yet regulated. Useful to have some cloth ones (three sets should suffice) to wear at home. Saves cost.

Breast pump

1

You have a choice of either a manual one or an electric one. Many new mummies swear by the manual pump (Avent) for the first time as it allows for more control.

Cream

1 tube

Usually given to you by the hospital.

Breast shells

1 set

Life-saver during the first few days, when your nipples are sore. Helps provide a barrier between your nipple and your bra. Also, good for collecting milk from your other breast when letting down, so every drop of expressed breast milky is not wasted. Absolutely necessary.

Nursing bras

4

Get a range - from those with good support and molded pads for going out, to soft, non-padded ones for wearing at home.

Nursing tops

3 - 4

Definitely makes the nursing experience when you are outdoors much more enjoyable and discreet.

Stroller

1

With so many models out there, you are spoilt for choice. One thing to watch out for - its weight! Some may be cheap but they weigh a tonne and that makes you reluctant to use them.

Car seat cum carrier / rocker

1

There are some convertible ones that can take baby from infancy all the way up till 4 years of age!
If you prefer an infant car seat, make sure it is detachable from the car easily to be doubled-up as a rocker indoors.

Diaper bag with changing pad

1

Firstly, the hospital will probably give you one as a send-off gift. Secondly, you can simply use your backpack or any tote-bag you have.

Baby carrier / sling

1

Very useful as it frees your hands to do other things, such as pressing button of lift, locking door etc. Also, slings are perfect for breastfeeding discreetly!

Baby rocker

1

Get one which is lightweight and durable. Some can be converted into sit-up position, which baby will appreciate as he gets older.

Baby monitor

1

Compulsory if you plan to have baby sleeping in a separate room. Otherwise, not a must.

Infant toys

Depends

Not too many are needed - save your money for buying books and other stuff for baby as he gets older. Developmental toys in red, black and white are readily available around.

Night light

1

Useful.

Antiseptic soap powder / liquid baby clothes detergent

1 box

Pigeon brand is popular. Napisan too, for soaking nappies.