Newborn Essentials: A Daily Guide For New Parents

Newborns have four main needs: sleeping, feeding, playing, and crying. Each newborn baby is different, so it's important to be flexible and adapt to their needs. In the first few weeks of life, a newborn will sleep for around 16 hours a day, feeding 6-8 times in a 24-hour period, which will take around 2-5 hours in total.

Newborns need plenty of sleep, and their sleep patterns can change regularly, so it's a good idea to be flexible and stay adaptable during the first few months. It can be helpful to establish a simple sleep routine, such as offering a feed when your baby wakes up, changing their nappy during or after the feed, having some cuddle and playtime, and then settling them back to sleep.

Whether a newborn is breastfed or bottle-fed, they will need regular feeds to support their growth and development. Feeding is also a great opportunity for bonding and cuddle time.

Playtime is important for a newborn's growth and development. Interacting with your newborn is key, and this can include making eye contact, smiling, talking, singing nursery rhymes, taking them for a walk, or reading them a story.

Crying is a newborn's way of communicating, and it's normal for them to cry frequently. When a baby is crying, it's important to check if they are hungry, tired, or uncomfortable. They may need feeding, settling to sleep, a nappy change, or they could be too hot or cold.

In addition to these daily needs, newborns also require essential items such as clothing, nappies, and equipment for feeding and sleeping.

Feeding essentials

Feeding a newborn can be challenging for new parents, but understanding some basic guidelines can make it easier. Here are some essential tips for feeding your newborn:

Breastfeeding or Formula Feeding

The first decision you'll need to make is whether to breastfeed or formula feed your baby. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that babies be breastfed exclusively for the first 6 months of life. Breast milk is perfectly suited to a newborn's digestive system, containing all the necessary nutrients, and it is easily digested. It also offers protection from infections and may reduce the risk of certain medical problems later in life, such as diabetes, asthma, and allergies.

However, breastfeeding may not be possible or preferable for all mothers. It requires a significant time commitment, as breastfed babies tend to feed more frequently than formula-fed babies. Some mothers may also need to return to work or have other reasons for wanting more flexibility. In these cases, formula feeding can be a nutritious alternative that allows other caregivers to share feeding responsibilities.

Feeding Schedule

Whether you choose to breastfeed or formula feed, it's generally recommended to feed newborns on demand. In the early days, this may be as often as every 2 to 3 hours, although this will gradually increase over time. By the time they are a few weeks old, your baby may start sleeping for longer stretches at night, giving you more time between feedings.

As your baby grows, the amount they eat at each feeding will also increase. Newborns will drink around 1 to 2 ounces of breast milk or formula per feeding, gradually increasing to 2 to 3 ounces by the second week of life. By the time they are 1 month old, they will need at least 4 ounces per feeding.

Hunger and Fullness Cues

It's important to pay attention to your baby's hunger and fullness cues. Signs that your baby is hungry include moving their head from side to side, opening their mouth, sticking out their tongue, placing their hands or fists in their mouth, and puckering their lips as if to suck.

When your baby is full, they may slow down their feeding, spit out the bottle or unlatch from the breast, close their mouth, or turn away from the breast or bottle.

Solid Foods

Introducing solid foods is typically recommended around 6 months of age. However, it's important to ensure that your baby is ready for solids by looking for certain signs of readiness, such as mastering the grabbing skill, developing head and neck control, and losing the tongue-thrust reflex that automatically pushes food out of their mouth.

When first introducing solids, offer your baby about 1 to 2 tablespoons of food twice a day, gradually increasing the amount and frequency as they get older. Remember that breast milk or formula should still be their primary source of nutrition during the first year of life.

Nutritional Supplements

Breast milk and formula provide all the necessary nutrients for your baby during the first 6 months of life. However, breastfed babies should take vitamin D supplements during this time, and breastfeeding mothers who follow vegetarian diets should take vitamin B12 supplements. Formula-fed infants may also need vitamin D supplements if they are drinking less than 1 liter of formula per day.

Diapering essentials

Diapering a newborn can be a daunting task, but with the right essentials, it becomes much easier. Here is a detailed list of diapering must-haves to make diaper changes quick and simple:

Dresser & Topper Set/Changing Table:

The first essential item is a dedicated space for diaper changes. You can opt for a dresser with a removable topper or a traditional changing table. A dresser provides storage for your baby's clothes and can be used for years to come. On the other hand, a changing table often comes with storage options and a comfortable pad for diaper changes.

Changing Pad:

A changing pad is crucial for your baby's comfort and safety. Look for a pad with a three-sided enclosure and a safety belt to prevent your little one from rolling over or falling. This adds an extra layer of security during diaper changes.

Changing Pad Cover:

To ensure your baby's comfort, invest in a soft and cosy changing pad cover. It should be comfortable for your baby's delicate skin and easy to clean in case of any messes.

Waterproof Changing Pad Liners:

Protect your changing pad from getting wet by placing waterproof liners over it. These liners are a must-have to prolong the life of your changing pad and prevent excessive laundry.

Diaper Organizer, Storage Baskets, or Diaper Caddy:

Keep all your diapering supplies organised and within easy reach. A diaper caddy or storage baskets can help you stay organised and efficient during diaper changes. It's also a great way to have everything you need in one place, making diaper duty less stressful.

Diaper Pail:

A diaper pail is essential for containing dirty diapers and preventing odours from escaping. Look for one that is easy to use and has a secure lid. Some diaper pails also come with odour-neutralising features to keep the nursery smelling fresh.

Diapers:

Of course, diapers are the most crucial item on this list. Newborns tend to need their diapers changed 10 to 15 times a day, so stock up on plenty of diapers. You can choose between disposable diapers and cloth diapers, depending on your preference and lifestyle.

Baby Wipes:

Baby wipes are another essential item for keeping your little one clean and fresh. Look for gentle, hypoallergenic wipes that are safe for your baby's sensitive skin. You may also want to invest in a wipe warmer to keep those wipes nice and cosy.

Diaper Cream:

Diaper rash is a common occurrence in newborns, so it's important to have a soothing diaper cream on hand. Look for creams that help prevent and heal rashes, providing a protective barrier for your baby's delicate skin.

Grooming Kit:

Keep a grooming kit nearby for all your baby's hygiene needs. It should include items like nail clippers, a thermometer, and a comb. You may also want to add a nasal aspirator to your kit to help clear your baby's stuffy nose.

Hand Sanitiser:

Last but not least, don't forget to keep a hand sanitiser or soap nearby to ensure proper hand hygiene before and after each diaper change. This helps maintain a clean and safe environment for your baby.

Bath essentials

It is recommended that newborns are bathed 2-3 times per week. This is because their skin is sensitive and can easily dry out, which can worsen conditions like eczema. However, if your baby enjoys baths, it is fine to bathe them daily.

You can bathe your newborn at any time of day. Pick a time when you are relaxed and won't be interrupted. Avoid bathing your baby when they are hungry or straight after a feed. If bathing relaxes your baby, you can use it as part of a bedtime routine.

Where?

You can bathe your newborn in a small plastic bath or in the kitchen sink. The kitchen sink may be the easiest option in the first few weeks. A plastic baby bath is probably best once your baby gets bigger.

You can bathe your baby in any room that is warm, safe and clean – it doesn't have to be a bathroom.

Setting up a newborn bath:

• Take the phone off the hook or turn off your phone to avoid distractions
• Have everything you need within reach, e.g. a towel, washcloth, mild baby cleanser, cream or ointment, clean clothes and a clean nappy
• Avoid using soap as this can dry out your baby's skin. Use a mild baby cleanser instead
• Position the bath somewhere stable and at a height where you can comfortably hold your baby, like on the kitchen table
• Fill the bath with just enough warm water to wash your baby. If you are bathing your baby away from the tap, use jugs of water to fill the bath
• Take off your watch and jewellery and wash your hands
• Check the water temperature is 37-38°C before putting your baby in the bath. If you don't have a thermometer, use your wrist or elbow to test the temperature – it should be comfortably warm, not hot
• Before bathing your baby in a sink, briefly run cold water through the tap once you've finished filling the sink
• Don't add extra water while your baby is in the bath

Steps for bathing your newborn:

• Before undressing your baby, wipe their eyelids (from inner eye to outer eye) with cotton wool or a soft washcloth dipped in lukewarm water. Squeeze out extra water. Use a new piece of cotton wool or a clean part of the cloth for each wipe. Then wash the whole face. Be careful not to put anything into your baby's ears or nose
• Undress your baby, taking the nappy off last
• Cradle your baby's head and shoulders with one arm, and support their body with your other arm. Gently lower your baby into the bath, feet first. Keep a close hold on your baby at all times
• Gently wash your baby using a soft washcloth and warm water. Use a mild baby cleanser if needed. Clean your baby's neck and body first and their genitals and bottom last. Also, clean out any bits of poo, vomit or milk from your baby's body creases
• Wash your baby's hair once or twice a week. It's best to do this after you wash the rest of your baby's body, so your baby's head doesn't get cold. While you support your baby in the bath, gently splash water onto their head and wipe their head with a clean washcloth. You don't need to use shampoo
• Never leave your baby alone in the bath, even if you're using a bath seat or cradle. Never leave older children or siblings to supervise

Drying and dressing your newborn:

• Supporting your baby's head and neck, lift your baby out of the bath then place them on their back on a clean, dry, soft towel. If possible, dry your baby on the floor so they can't fall. If you're changing your baby on a raised surface like a table, always keep one hand on your baby
• Wrap your baby in a soft towel, and pat them dry. Dry your baby's skin creases, including armpits, groin, under the chin, around the neck and behind the ears
• If your baby's skin is dry, apply a non-perfumed cream or ointment to their skin
• If your baby has nappy rash, apply a thick barrier cream like zinc paste to the nappy area
• Dress your baby, putting their nappy on first
• Place your baby in a safe place, like a cot or bassinette
• Empty the bath water

Helping newborns enjoy bath time

To help your newborn baby enjoy bath time, you can try placing your hand gently on their tummy. You can also place a warm, wet washcloth on their chest and tummy. This can help your baby feel safe and secure in the bath.

Generally, babies get used to baths by around 3 months.

Health essentials

Grooming and Hygiene

Babies need to be groomed and kept clean, so you'll need to stock up on baby nail clippers or a baby nail file. You can also get an electric nail trimmer, which some parents find easier to use. You'll also need a baby toothbrush—this will be needed when your baby's first teeth erupt.

First Aid and Baby Care

It's important to have a well-stocked medicine cabinet for your baby. You'll need an infant pain reliever, a nasal aspirator or snot sucker, an electrolyte drink such as Pedialyte for dehydration, and anti-gas medicine or gripe water. A bulb syringe for suctioning mucus is also useful, and the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests keeping a baby thermometer in your first aid kit.

Circumcision Care

If you're circumcising your baby, you'll need petroleum jelly and sterile gauze for care.

Nappy Changing

You'll need to change your baby's nappy frequently—expect at least six to eight soaked cloth nappies or four to five heavy disposable nappies in 24 hours. You'll need a changing table or change pad, and a waterproof changing table pad with two or three covers. You'll also need four or five waterproof pads to place under your baby's bottom, or you can use a towel or doggy pee pad.

Bathing

You'll need a plastic infant tub, or you can use a large dishpan in the sink, or bathe with your baby. You'll also need baby shampoo and body wash, two to four hooded baby towels, and a baby lotion (optional).

Feeding

Whether you breastfeed or bottle-feed, your baby will need about six to eight feeds in a 24-hour period, which will take around two to five hours a day in total. If you're breastfeeding, you may want to get a breastfeeding pillow, nipple cream, and nursing pads. If you're bottle-feeding, you'll need eight to ten bottles and nipples, and a bottle-cleaning brush or a dishwasher basket.

Nursery essentials

Sleeping

A newborn baby has two sleeping options: a crib or a bassinet. A crib will be a more permanent fixture in the nursery, whereas a bassinet is a good option for keeping the baby close by during the first few months. Whichever you choose, ensure it follows current US Consumer Product Safety Standards. This means the slats should be no more than 2 and 3/8 inches apart, top rails should be at least 26 inches above the mattress, and corner posts no more than 1/16 of an inch above the frame.

You'll also need a firm, flat mattress that fits snugly in the crib (you shouldn't be able to fit more than two fingers between the mattress and crib). Get 1-3 washable crib mattress pads and 2-4 fitted crib sheets.

Feeding

A rocking chair or glider is a great option for feeding. It gives you a comfortable place to sit, and the rocking motion helps to soothe your baby. You'll be spending a lot of time feeding, so make sure it's a comfortable chair. A nursing pillow will also help you to support your baby safely in your lap.

Diaper Changing

You'll need a dresser/changing table and a soft, comfortable changing pad to place on top. The essentials for diaper changes—like wipes, diapers, and creams—can be stored in the top dresser drawer or in baskets. Always use security straps according to manufacturer guidelines to keep your baby safe.

Storage

Storage bins or baskets are ideal for keeping baby essentials easily accessible but neatly stored. Place them in strategic locations, such as by the rocking chair and within arm's reach of the changing area.

You'll also need a bookshelf for all those picture books. A hanging wall bookshelf is a great option to save space.

Playing

A play mat is a perfect first toy for your baby, and it gives your arms a break! You'll also need a baby seat to give your little one a chance to play, learn, and observe their surroundings. Age-appropriate toys can be stored in a basket.

Safety

A baby monitor is a must-have to keep an eye on your baby while they sleep.

Electrical outlets should be covered, and it's a good idea to anchor tall or heavy furniture to the walls.

Frequently asked questions