Putting together a baby outfit can be overwhelming. What do you really need and what is unnecessary? As an experienced neonatology nurse, I share a complete baby gear list with practical tips, cost overviews and must-haves. So you can make the best choices for your little one. Read the blog and find out everything you need to know!
The ultimate baby essentials list: what do you really need and what does it cost?
As a neonatology nurse and baby coach with 26 years of experience, I have guided hundreds of parents through the first few weeks after their baby is born. One of the most frequently asked questions I get is: what do I really need for my baby?
Many parents feel overwhelmed by the endless lists you find online. But baby essentials don't have to be complicated or unnecessarily expensive. In this blog, I'll help you with a practical, no-nonsense baby essentials list based on my knowledge and experience with newborns.
what is a baby kit?
A baby kit includes all the essential items you need to care for your baby safely and comfortably. Consider clothing, sleep essentials, care products and transportation equipment such as a stroller or baby carrier.
💡 My advice as a baby coach: don't buy too much ahead of time. Every baby is different and some products seem convenient but are hardly ever used.
what does a complete baby kit cost?
The cost of a baby outfit varies from family to family, but here are the average amounts:
basic outfits: €834 (clothing, care and nursery)
comprehensive outfits: €1,846 (including stroller, car seat and accessories)
🔹 cost by category:
- clothing: €178
- care: €213
- baby room: €443
- stroller: €520
- car seat: €115
- playpen + mattress: €109
- high chair: €120
- baby carriage: €100
- additional accessories: €882
💰 how do you save?
✔ choose durable materials like merino wool, which last longer.
✔ buy second-hand (especially large items like a playpen or dresser).
✔ ask friends and family for useful maternity gifts instead of toys.
how much money do you need for a baby outfit?
Many parents wonder how much to save. It depends on your choices and whether you buy products new or used:
💸 saving for a baby:
- minimum: €1,000 for basic supplies
- average: €2,000 if you also buy furniture and a stroller new
- wider budget: €3,500+ if you choose high-end brands
💡 My advice: the first few months are all about safety, warmth and security. An expensive nursery or designer stroller makes no difference to your baby, but skin-to-skin contact, regularity and rest do.
the complete baby outfits list
Below is an overview of everything you need for your baby, based on my experience as a neonatology nurse.
sleep
✔ crib or crib with a firm, breathable mattress
✔ 2-3 fitted sheets
✔ 2-3 sleeping bags (safest option, blankets can be dangerous)
✔ merino wool cap for newborns (important for temperature regulation)
✔ baby monitor (preferably with sound, no unnecessary bells and whistles)
✔ hydrophilic diapers (also useful as a sheet or swaddle cloth)
💡 My advice: the first few weeks your baby does not yet have a sleep rhythm. Allow for many short naps and provide a quiet, low-stimulation environment.
food
when breastfeeding:
✔ breast pump (only if you are going to pump, not always necessary)
✔ nursing pads
✔ nursing pillow
for bottle feeding:
✔ 4-6 bottles (note: some babies refuse certain bottles)
✔ bottle warmer (optional)
✔ powdered milk container
💡 my advice: don't buy a supply of bottles or teats until you know what your baby likes. Every baby has a different sucking technique. In fact, there is no such thing as the ideal bottle for every baby. So it can sometimes take some searching to find a bottle that your baby drinks well from.
dressing
✔ 6-8 rompers (skip models, easier to dress)
✔ 3-5 pants and sweaters
✔ 2-3 playsuits
✔ slippers or socks
✔ warm hat for outdoors
✔ jacket or cardigan
💡 My advice: choose soft, breathable fabrics such as organic cotton or merino wool. Avoid hard seams, labels and buttons on the back.
changing
✔ changing table or changing area
✔ 2-3 washable changing pad covers
✔ wipes (washable or biodegradable)
✔ diaper pail
💡 My advice: don't buy a supply of diapers in one size right away. Babies grow quickly and some brands cause diaper rash.
bath and care
✔ baby bath or tummy tub
✔ hydrophilic cloths (min. 8 pieces)
✔ baby brush
✔ nail scissors or file
✔ thermometer
💡 My advice: don't bathe your baby too often - 2-3 times a week is enough. Bathing too often can dry out the skin.
en route
✔ stroller with rain cover
✔ car seat (i-size approved)
✔ sling or ergonomic baby carrier
💡 my advice: a baby carrier can help with crying babies. It provides security and supports a natural position. A baby really enjoys being with you anyway.
how many rompers do you need for a baby outfit?
Many parents wonder how many rompers they should buy.
- For a newborn baby (size 50-56): 6-8 rompers
- from size 62-68: 5-6 rompers
- from size 74 and up: 4-5 rompers
💡 My advice: don't buy too much in size 50, many babies grow out of these within a few weeks. If you do run short, new clothes can be bought in no time. Make sure you buy clothes that fit well. Clothing that is too big can make it harder for your baby to keep himself warm.
what don't you necessarily need?
Some products seem convenient but are rarely used:
❌ diaper waste garbage can with special cassettes (expensive refills!)
❌ shoes for newborns (babies don't walk yet)
❌ too many stuffed animals and toys (your baby barely plays in the first few weeks)
conclusion
A good baby outfit doesn't have to be big or expensive. My advice as a baby coach is: focus on the basics, buy smart and don't be tempted by marketing tricks.
💬 what did you find indispensable in baby essentials? share it in the comments!
want stylish and comfortable baby clothes? check out our moalie collection and discover our merino wool essentials for your little one. ❤️
