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Becoming a parent for the first time is a very special experience – both amazing and overwhelming. Of course, you want to be well prepared and ensure that your little one gets the best start in life. But what exactly should you get for a newborn baby?

To make things a little easier, we've put together a handy baby checklist to get you ready for life with baby. Whether you're a first-time parent or just need a refresher, here's a complete overview of what you'll need for your newborn.

Baby clothes for the first time

When choosing baby clothes, it's a good idea to go for soft, breathable materials like organic cotton. It's gentle on your baby's delicate skin and ensures maximum comfort. We can guarantee that at LouieLouie.

Newborns grow quickly, so it may be an advantage not to buy too many in the smallest sizes. On the other hand, it is a good idea to have enough clothes to change into, as little accidents happen all the time.

Here is a shopping list of baby clothes for the first few days:

✔ Cloth diapers (at least 15 pieces) – You simply can't have too many – and it's nice not to have to think about washing all the time.

✔ Bodystocking (8 pieces) – Long and short sleeves depending on the season. But we always recommend having a piece with long sleeves so that baby is kept warm. Bodysuits with a wrap-around closure are easiest to get on and off, so we recommend that for newborns. Buy 4 in size 50 and 4 in size 56, then you are on the safe side – baby's size is unknown.

✔ Jumpsuits (5-7 pieces) – Jumpsuits are perfect for both day and night. It's nice to have a few pieces, as a change can occur during the night, should a fly or diaper rash occur.

✔ Soft leggings orloose pants (8 pieces) – Comfortable and easy to combine with bodysuits. Accidents often happen, so it can be convenient to have a small stock of either leggings or pants.

✔ Cardigans or sweaters (2-3 pieces) – To keep baby warm, especially during the cold months.

✔ Hats (2 pcs.) – A thin cotton hat for indoor use and a warmer hat for outdoors. Choose a pair of hats with and without drawstrings.

✔ Socks and mittens (4-5 pairs) – Little feet get cold quickly, so good socks are a must!

✔ Warm driving suit or woolen suit (1 piece) – If baby is born in the cold months.

✔ Drool bibs (5-6 pieces) – Bibs protect clothes from drool and spit-up, especially when baby starts teething.

✔ Thin mittens (1-2 pairs) – Newborns can easily scratch their faces, so soft mittens are a good idea.

Size guide for baby clothes

When buying baby clothes, it is important to choose the right size so that the clothes fit well and are comfortable for your baby. Baby sizes are typically measured by the child's height in centimeters, but since babies grow at different rates, age can also be a good guide.

Baby sizes – what do the numbers mean?

Baby clothes have size numbers like 50, 56, 62, etc. These numbers refer to the child's height in centimeters. For example, if your baby is 56 cm tall, size 56 will fit best.

Baby clothes size chart:

With this size guide, you are well equipped to choose the right baby clothes for your baby.

Tips for choosing size

• Always choose a slightly larger size – Babies grow quickly, so it can be beneficial to buy a size larger, especially if you are buying clothes for the coming months.
• Check elastic and closures – Baby clothes should be easy to put on and take off. Snaps, wrap-around bodysuits, and pants with elastic waists make changing easier.
• Think about the season – If you buy baby clothes well in advance, consider what season they will be used in. For example, a size 68 may be appropriate for summer or winter depending on when your baby is born.
• Go for soft materials – Cotton and bamboo are good choices as they are breathable and gentle on baby's delicate skin.

Other things that are good to have for baby

When you're expecting a baby, there are a number of things that need to be in place. Here's an overview of the most important things so you can be well prepared.

Sleeping space

Your baby needs a safe place to sleep. Many parents choose a cradle or a bedside crib in the first months, so that baby sleeps close to mom and dad. Alternatively, you can use a cot with a baby nest, so that the little one feels safe. Also remember a good mattress, fitted sheets and a sleeping bag or duvet adapted to the season.

Changing area

Diapers will become a regular part of everyday life, so a functional changing area is a must. You will need:

• A changing pad
• Diapers (starting with sizes 1 and 2)
• Foam cloths or wet wipes
• Zinc ointment for red butt
• A change of clothes for baby (read our guide further up so you are guaranteed to be sure of the number of different items of clothing).

Feeding

Whether you breastfeed or bottle feed, there are some things you will need:

• Nursing pads (if you are breastfeeding)
• Bottles and pacifiers if you are giving formula
• Shoulder cloths for fly
• A good nursing pillow for better support

Equipment

When you leave the house, there is also some equipment you need to have ready:

• A good car seat
• Baby carriage or stroller
• Baby carrier or wrap for safe transport close to the body

Bath and care

Your baby will also need to be bathed and cared for. Make sure you have:

• A baby bathtub or a bath support for the sink
• Soft towels (preferably with a hood)
• A mild baby shampoo and oil
• A soft hairbrush and nail scissors for baby