Baby Essentials Checklist

Baby Bottles (set of 4-6)

Anti-colic bottles are recommended. Start with 150ml for newborns and 250ml for later.

Bottle Steriliser

Microwave or electric steriliser. Essential for keeping bottles germ-free for at least the first 12 months.

Breast Pump

Manual pumps are more affordable (R350-R700). Electric double pumps save time but cost more.

Nursing Pillow

Supports baby during breastfeeding and helps with positioning. Can also be used for tummy time.

Bibs (pack of 5-10)

Drool and milk bibs for newborns. Bandana-style bibs are popular and absorbent.

Burp Cloths (pack of 5)

Muslin burp cloths are soft and absorbent. You will go through several a day.

Infant Formula (if needed)

Only if not exclusively breastfeeding. NAN, S-26, and Infacare are widely available in SA. Consult your clinic sister or paediatrician.

Bottle Brush Set

Includes bottle brush and teat brush. Essential for thorough cleaning before sterilising.

Bottle Drying Rack

Keeps sterilised bottles, teats, and caps organised and drip-dry after washing.

Breast Milk Storage Bags

Pre-sterilised bags for freezing expressed breast milk. Useful for building a freezer stash before returning to work.

Baby Cot

Ensure it meets safety standards. Bar spacing must be 50-95mm. Many SA parents start with a camp cot or co-sleeper.

Cot Mattress

Must be firm and fit snugly in the cot with no gaps. A new mattress is recommended for each baby.

Waterproof Mattress Protector

Protects the mattress from nappy leaks and spit-up. Get at least two so you have a spare.

Fitted Cot Sheets (x3)

Cotton fitted sheets. Buy at least 3 as they need frequent washing.

Baby Sleeping Bag

Safer than loose blankets. Choose the right tog for the season: 0.5 for summer, 2.5 for winter in SA.

Swaddle Wraps (x2-3)

Helps newborns feel secure and reduces the startle reflex. Velcro or zip swaddles are easiest to use.

Baby Monitor

Video monitors give peace of mind. Audio-only monitors are more affordable. Check Wi-Fi range for your home.

Bedside Co-Sleeper / Camp Cot

Keeps baby close for night feeds. Many SA parents use a camp cot (R800-R2000) as a versatile and affordable option.

White Noise Machine

Helps babies sleep through household noise. Many parents use a phone app as an alternative.

Blackout Curtains / Blind

Helps create a dark sleep environment, especially during SA summer when daylight hours are long.

Short-sleeve Bodysuits / Vests (x6-8)

The staple of a newborn wardrobe. Buy in newborn and 0-3 month sizes. Poppers at the bottom are easiest.

Sleepsuits / Babygrows (x6-8)

All-in-one suits with feet. Zip-up styles are easier for night changes than poppers.

Baby Hats (x2-3)

Newborns lose heat through their heads. Beanies for winter, wide-brim sun hats for SA summer.

Socks / Booties (x5 pairs)

Stay-on socks are a lifesaver as babies kick them off easily. Buy in bulk as they disappear in the wash.

Scratch Mittens (x3 pairs)

Prevents newborns from scratching their faces with sharp little nails.

Cardigans / Jerseys (x2-3)

Layering is key in SA where temperatures can change quickly. Cotton or knitted cardigans work well.

Going Home Outfit

A special outfit for leaving the hospital. Make sure it is comfortable and easy to get on and off.

Receiving Blankets / Muslin Wraps (x3-4)

Multi-use: swaddling, burping, breastfeeding cover, pram shade. Muslin is breathable for SA climate.

Leggings / Pants (x4-5)

Soft cotton leggings with elastic waist. Easier for nappy changes than jeans or stiff fabrics.

Pram Suit / Snowsuit (winter babies)

For winter babies, especially in Gauteng, Free State, and other cold regions. Not needed for summer births on the coast.

Baby Bath

A standard baby bath or bath with built-in support. Bath seats are for older babies only.

Bath Support / Seat Insert

Frees up both hands during bath time. Towelling or mesh supports are popular for newborns.

Hooded Towels (x2-3)

Keeps baby warm after bath. Hooded design prevents heat loss from the head.

Face Cloths / Wash Cloths (x5-6)

Soft cloths for gentle washing. Also useful for wiping up milk and drool throughout the day.

Baby Wash / Shampoo

Fragrance-free and gentle on newborn skin. Popular SA brands include Oh So Heavenly Kids, Johnson's, and Earthbound Baby.

Baby Moisturiser / Lotion

Keep newborn skin moisturised, especially in dry SA winters. Fragrance-free options are gentlest.

Baby Oil / Massage Oil

Great for baby massage which promotes bonding and can help with colic. Grapeseed or coconut oil also work.

Baby Nail Clippers / Scissors

Baby nails grow surprisingly fast. Rounded-tip scissors or special baby clippers prevent accidental nicks.

Cotton Wool / Cotton Pads

Used with warm water for cleaning newborn skin in the first weeks. Gentler than wipes for fresh belly buttons.

Bath Thermometer

Ideal water temperature is 37°C. Useful until you are confident testing with your elbow.

Infant Car Seat (Group 0+)

LEGALLY REQUIRED in South Africa. National Road Traffic Act mandates car seats for children. Hospital will not discharge without one. Must be rear-facing for infants.

Pram / Travel System

A travel system that includes car seat and pram is often the best value. Consider the terrain you will use it on.

Nappy Bag / Diaper Bag

Look for multiple compartments, insulated bottle pocket, and a changing mat. Backpack style is popular.

Portable Changing Mat

Foldable and wipeable changing mat for nappy changes on the go. Many nappy bags include one.

Car Seat Mirror

Attaches to the back seat headrest so you can see your rear-facing baby in the rearview mirror.

Car Window Sunshade (x2)

Protects baby from harsh SA sun through car windows. UV-blocking shades are recommended.

Baby Carrier / Wrap

Great for hands-free carrying. Stretchy wraps suit newborns; structured carriers are better for older babies. African-style back carrying is also popular.

Pram Rain Cover

Essential for Cape Town and KZN rainy seasons. Universal fit covers work with most prams.

Car Seat Protector Mat

Protects your car seat upholstery from dents and marks caused by the baby car seat.

Pram Organiser / Cup Holder

Handy for holding your phone, keys, and coffee while pushing the pram.

Disposable Nappies (newborn size)

You will use 8-12 nappies per day in the beginning. Pampers, Huggies, and the more affordable Cuddlers are all available in SA.

Baby Wipes

Fragrance-free and alcohol-free wipes are gentlest. Use cotton wool and water for the first 2 weeks.

Nappy Rash Cream

Zinc-based barrier creams protect against nappy rash. Sudocrem and Bepanthen are popular in SA. Apply at every change.

Digital Thermometer

Forehead or ear thermometers are quickest. A fever in a newborn (38°C+) requires urgent medical attention.

Nasal Aspirator

Babies can only breathe through their noses. A bulb or suction aspirator clears congestion safely.

Saline Nasal Drops

Used with the nasal aspirator to loosen mucus. Safe for newborns and available over the counter.

Medicine Syringe / Dropper

For administering medicine accurately. Most pharmacies include one with baby medicines.

Gripe Water / Colic Drops

Woodwards Gripe Water and Telament Colic Drops are SA favourites. Consult your clinic sister before using.

Nappy Bin / Disposal System

Seals in odours from dirty nappies. Useful but not essential. A regular bin with a lid also works.

Hand Sanitiser (baby-safe)

For visitors and when you are out and about. Keep one in the nappy bag.

Cloth Nappies (if choosing reusable)

More eco-friendly and cost-effective long term. You will need 20-25 for full-time use. SA brands like EcoNaps and BumGenius are available.

Changing Mat / Table

A wipeable changing mat on a dresser is the most practical option. Dedicated changing tables are also available.

Storage Baskets / Organisers

Keep nappies, wipes, creams, and clothing organised and within reach during changes.

Night Light

A dim, warm-toned light for night feeds and nappy changes without fully waking baby or yourself.

Chest of Drawers / Small Wardrobe

Dedicated storage for baby clothes. The top can double as a changing station if you add a changing mat.

Nappy Caddy / Organiser

Portable organiser for nappies, wipes, and creams. Carry it room to room as needed.

Wall Art / Decals

Removable wall stickers and prints to decorate the nursery. Fun but entirely optional.

Room Thermometer

Ideal nursery temperature is 16-20°C. Important for SIDS prevention and choosing the right sleeping bag tog.

Baby Laundry Detergent

Gentle, fragrance-free detergent for sensitive newborn skin. Skip the fabric softener for the first few months.

Baby Bouncer / Rocker

A safe place to put baby down while you shower, cook, or eat. Gentle bouncing can help soothe a fussy baby.

Play Mat / Activity Gym

Stimulates development from about 6 weeks. Hanging toys encourage reaching and grasping.

Maternity Pads (x2-3 packs)

Thicker and longer than regular pads. You will need them for 2-6 weeks after birth. Available at Clicks and Dis-Chem.

Nursing Bras (x3-4)

Clip-down cups for easy breastfeeding access. Buy towards end of pregnancy when your size has stabilised.

Breast Pads (disposable or reusable)

Absorb milk leaks between feeds. Disposable are convenient; reusable are more eco-friendly and cost-effective.

Nipple Cream

Lanolin-based creams soothe and protect sore nipples. Apply after every feed in the early weeks.

High-Waist Recovery Underwear (x5-6)

Soft, high-waisted cotton underwear that sits above a C-section scar. Buy a size up from your pre-pregnancy size.

Perineal Spray / Sitz Bath Salts

Soothes soreness after vaginal birth. Epsom salts in a warm bath are a more affordable alternative.

Large Water Bottle (1L+)

Breastfeeding makes you very thirsty. A bottle with a straw is easiest to use while feeding.

Nursing-Friendly Snacks

Energy bars, lactation cookies, and nuts. Stock up before baby arrives so you always have something to grab.

Postpartum Belly Wrap / Support Band

Provides abdominal support, especially after a C-section. Some women find it helps them feel more secure.

Hospital Bag (packed by 36 weeks)

Pack by 36 weeks: nightgown, slippers, toiletries, going-home outfit for you and baby, snacks, phone charger, ID, and hospital/clinic paperwork.