Check list: 7 things every mother (and father!) of a baby needs.

So, babies need lots of stuff. But, they also don’t need lots of stuff.

After I emerged from the fog of those first few weeks, I surveyed in dismay several ‘essentials’ I didn’t need after all, and sent my husband on several shopping trips to buy the things I didn’t know I would need.

Yes, it is confusing to know what to buy for your baby, that is, it was confusing, until now.

I have three children and 6 nieces and nephews. It is safe to say I have a pretty good idea of what babies need, particularly during that 3-6 month intense phase when they stop just lying there being cute and start learning how to do things, quickly. It is enchanting. It’s overwhelming.

And it’s made simple thanks to this list of baby essentials. Don’t forget to pass this on to every expectant and new mum you know.

Just as an FYI, you should know that this post is sponsored by Big W. But all opinions expressed by the author are 100% authentic and written in their own words.

1. Black out blinds.

This is THE product every mum doesn’t know they need. Babies sleep well, at first, but they become more wakeful by three months and more importantly, they become capable of learning a sleeping routine. These blinds are affordable and designed so you can hang them yourself.

2. Baby Love and any of the 4 Ingredients range of cookbooks.

These two books should have been given to you at your baby shower but in the event this hasn’t happened, get them for yourself. Baby Love is THE comprehensive baby guide. It comforts you at 2am when you have an issue and makes you feel better instantly. And while you are there, pick up any of the 4 Ingredients cookbook range so you can whip up quick and healthy dinners for your family.

3. Curash Cream and Powder

Nappy rash creams and powders take on new importance after three months. These are the months when nappy rash can get serious, particularly once your baby starts solids. Creams are a good preventative, but, if your baby already has a rash, the last thing you should do is put cream on it. You want to dry it out and that’s when you need the powder. The powder is also useful for any itchy areas of the body no matter how young or old, including nappy rash, sweat rashes and insect bites. 

4. Bumbo Baby Seat.

These seats are just brilliant for babies. They are for older babies learning to sit and the seatbelt is a must. They come in a range of colours. I used to leave one in my car for when I was visiting relatives.

5. Play centre.

As babies start to crawl and walk, a stable activity centre is a brilliant addition to their arsenal of toys. It is half walker, half play pen because it keeps them in one place and helps them practice standing while they play with the toys. I used to make my coffee and sit on the floor next to my babies while they played.

6. Any highchair without padding.

Highchairs are much cuter and more stylish these days. They used to be enormous with lots of padding, and expensive. Now, some of the best ones are way more affordable and without all that unneeded padding and bits and bobs, so much easier to clean.

7. Baby sleeping bag.

Once babies start to roll and kick and struggle against their wraps, you will need to get yourself a baby sleeping bag. Buy one that has no sleeves for comfort. Then all you need to do is put them in a nice, warm onesie and put on their sleeping bag. It’s the blanket they can’t kick off.

Over to you, what advice do you give new mums? What things did you work out every new baby needs?

Our advice? Flick through this gallery and KNOW you aren’t alone…

All featured products available at Big W.

BIG W has a huge range of national brands and the lowest prices on everything baby. View our catalogues online  or shop in store  for all your favourite brands. Visit www.bigw.com.au for more information or sign up to our newsletter here.