A calm start here page for the first days and weeks with your baby in the UK. Save this hub and return whenever you want simple answers, trusted links, and checklists you can use today.
Parent Tip: Everything here follows trusted UK guidance. When in doubt check NHS advice or speak to your midwife or health visitor.
In this guide
Essentials Checklists
Newborn Baby Essentials Checklist
Start with the list that shows what you need now, what can wait, and what to skip, so you save money and head into week one feeling steady.
👉 Newborn Baby Essentials Checklist 2025
Hospital Bag Checklist
Pack once and relax. This simple list covers you, your birth partner, and baby. Aim to be ready by week thirty six so there is no rush.
👉 Hospital Bag Checklist 2025
Sleep Basics
Safe sleep is about a clear cot, the right room temperature, and a firm flat mattress. Set up the space to match your room and routine, then keep it simple.
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NHS safer sleep overview: NHS Start for Life safer sleep
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Trusted charity guidance: The Lullaby Trust safer sleep
Pro Tip: Keep a small room thermometer by the cot and dress baby in light layers that you can adjust through the seasons.
Feeding and First Weeks
Whether you breastfeed, bottle feed, or mix feed, a tidy feeding station and a short cleaning plan will save your energy. If you plan to express, choose a pump that fits how often you expect to pump and how much time you have.
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Your pick list: Best Breast Pumps 2025
When you want to add gentle play and bonding, simple toys and face to face time are perfect.
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First toys: Best Baby Toys for Newborns to 6 months
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Next stage: Best Baby Toys for 6 to 12 months
Parent Tip: Night feeds feel easier when you set up a small tray with water, muslins, and a soft light so you can move quietly without waking everyone.
Bathing and Changing
Short calm baths are perfect in the early weeks. A stable bath support keeps both hands free while you wash and rinse. Keep towels, a fresh nappy, cotton pads, and cream within reach before you start.
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Setups that work: Top 10 Baby Bath Seats and Supports
For changing, a small caddy with nappies, wipes or warm water and cotton pads, barrier cream, and spare clothes will cover most moments.
Pro Tip: If skin looks red or sore, review care basics and adjust your routine. See NHS nappy rash.
Getting Out and About
Before you buy a car seat, check UK safety guidance and make sure the seat fits your car well with the correct recline for your baby’s airway. Practice the harness steps at home so you can buckle in safely even on busy mornings.
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Read first: NHS choosing a baby car seat
When childcare starts or baby groups begin, this list helps you pack in minutes.
Parent Tip: Keep a small grab bag by the door with nappies, wipes, a spare vest, and a muslin. Replace items as soon as you get home so you can leave in one step.
Learn and Play
Keep a tiny basket of toys and rotate a few items each week. Your voice, face, and simple games do a lot in the early months. When you want ideas or simple gear that really helps, use these guides.
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Tummy time and play mats: Best Baby Gyms 2025
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Soothing seats for short spells: Best Baby Bouncers and Swings 2025
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Age based toy picks:
Bonding resources you already have on site:
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For single fathers: Practical Advice for Single Fathers Raising Newborns
Pro Tip: Babies learn best from your voice and face. Add a few minutes of songs and rhymes each day and talk through simple actions like getting dressed and going out.
Parent Wellbeing
You matter. Newborn care takes real energy. Use tiny habits that protect your rest, hydration, and headspace, and ask for help when you need it.
Expert Tip: Pick one five minute reset that works for you such as a warm drink by a window or a short stretch on the floor. Put it on your daily checklist so it happens.
FAQs
When should I pack my hospital bag
Aim to be ready by week thirty six so there is no rush if baby arrives early. See the checklist above.
How warm should the room be for sleep
Follow NHS safer sleep basics and use light layers. A small room thermometer helps through the seasons.
What health kit do I need at home
A simple thermometer is enough at first. When you want to compare options, see your guide to Best Thermometers for Babies and Kids 2025.
Free printable
Get the Newborn Essentials Checklist PDF and keep it on the fridge for quick checks.
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About Ozlem
Ozlem is a mum of two and the voice behind HelloBaby101. She writes UK focused guides that turn research into simple checklists for new parents.
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