Everything but the Kitchen Sink : A guide to all your baby essentials
A baby checklist can leave you exhausted, overwhelmed and panicking that you need to remortgage the house to afford everything. Whilst you could buy everything on the market to cover all eventualities, it is completely unnecessary and will cost you a small fortune. Unfortunately, there are some things that are non-negotiable but equally there are copious amounts of non-essentials on the market.
Prams, Pushchairs and Travel Systems
A pram is arguably one of the most important items you need to purchase when having a baby, acting as your primary bridge between home and the outside world. Because it is such a significant investment, it’s vital to choose a model that integrates seamlessly into your daily routine. Before buying your buggy, write a list of all the things you need a pram to do to suit your lifestyle.
Your Living Environment
City/Urban: Prioritise a narrow frame for doorways and "swivel" front wheels for nimble steering in tight shop aisles.
Rural/Country: Prioritise large, foam-filled or air-filled tires and robust suspension to handle mud, grass, and gravel
Your Living Space
If you live in a small apartment, it may be essential that the pram you choose can fold up compactly for storage. Conversely, if you live in a spacious house outside the city, a compact fold may not be a necessity for you.
Your Daily Routine
Think about how you will interact with the pram in your day-to-day life:
Travel
Do you travel frequently and require a model that can be taken on an aeroplane?
Car Use
Will you be loading it in and out of a car boot every day? If so, you will need something that can be easily folded away and lifted. The frequency in which you use a car may also affect your decision on whether a travel system is suitable for you or if it would be more cost effective to purchase a pram separately from a car seat. A travel system is an all-in-one "bundle" designed to transport your baby from birth through to their toddler years. Its main feature is a modular frame that allows you to swap different components—like a car seat or a bassinet—in and out with a simple click. Travel systems usually include the chassis [pram frame], a bassinet, a toddler seat, a car seat and an ISOFIX system. Some companies may include nappy bags, pram umbrellas or foot muffs within their travel system sets. Their main selling point is the money saved by buying all the items as a ‘travel system’ rather than buying them separately. By choosing a travel system, you ensure that all components are 100% compatible, allowing for a seamless transition from the pavement to the car without waking a sleeping baby. To leave the hospital by car, they require you to have a car seat that is properly fitted and secured within the vehicle. Whilst an ISOFIX is recommended for superior crash performance, it is possible to secure an infant car seat with a seatbelt alone. Therefore if you do not own a car but want to purchase an infant car seat for occasional use within taxis or a friends car, it is more cost effective buying a pram and car seat separately as opposed to a travel system as you will not need all the items included in one of these sets. If you do choose to do this, ensure that the car seat you buy is compatible with your chassis, you can usually find this information in the buggy manual. Sometimes you will need to buy car seat adapters for the chassis to clip it onto the frame.
Public Transport
Do you live in the city where the tube is your main mode of transport? In this case, you will likely need a lightweight pram that you can easily carry down stairs.
Do you have multiple children who use a buggy
When you are growing your family, choosing the right stroller requires a bit more strategy. Whether you are expecting twins or preparing for a second baby who will still need a seat, your choice of gear becomes a long-term investment in your daily mobility.
Beyond just the number of seats, your specific lifestyle should dictate whether you opt for a tandem (stacking) pram or a side-by-side model:
Tandem (Stacking) Prams: These are ideal for urban living. Because they maintain the width of a single stroller, they are much easier to navigate through narrow shop aisles, busy pavements, and standard doorways.
Side-by-Side Prams: These are often preferred for their stability and the fact that they allow both children an equal view of the world. They are excellent for long walks and all-terrain use, and they make it much easier for you to interact with both children at the same height simultaneously.
Ultimately, the right decision depends on your environment and whether you prioritise the nimbleness of a slim frame or the balanced accessibility of a wider design.
Three of our personal favourite pram models for city living -
The main selling point for this model is it’s compact structure when folded with either the bassinet or the seat. If you are limited on space in an apartment and need to keep the buggy folded up when it is inside, this is the one for you. The Bugaboo Dragonfly is one of the only prams on the market that can fold away with the bassinet still attached and is even extremely easy to fold down one handed. The design of the pram allows it to stand up by itself and it is easy to carry using the built in shoulder strap. An added bonus is that the bassinet on the pram can also be used for overnight sleeping until baby is 20lbs or can sit on their own, removing the need to buy a travel cot until your little on is a bit older.
Comes in five different fabric colours; Midnight Black, Forest Green, Desert Taupe, Dark Cherry, Grey Melange
This one is sleek, folds with one hand and works with Nuna car seats. It’s a brilliant all-in-one option for parents who want minimal fuss without compromising on looks or comfort. This pram is designed specifically for parents who need a stroller that is more substantial than a tiny travel buggy but much lighter and more nimble than a heavy, full-size pram.
Comes in three main fabric colours; Biscotti, Caviar-Chocolate, Rose
Bugaboo Donkey
The main selling point to this pram is its seamless ability to convert from a single to a double pram. It is the ultimate future-proof option, allowing you to switch from "Mono" to "Duo" mode in just three simple clicks, keeping siblings side-by-side. If you’re expecting twins, planning a small age gap, or just want to be prepared for the future without the hassle of upgrading to a double pram down the line, this model has you covered. Despite being a double, it is designed to be narrow enough to fit through standard doorways and is incredibly easy to maneuver with one hand. It features a new breezy bassinet for better airflow and a higher seat position to keep your little ones closer to you. It also offers massive storage capacity with both an under-seat basket and an expandable side luggage basket for when you are in single mode.
Comes in five main fabric colours; Midnight Black, Grey Melange, Stormy Blue, Forest Green, Desert Taupe
Essential Prams Accessories
Once you have selected your primary chassis, the right accessories are what truly tailor the experience to your specific environment. While some items appear purely aesthetic, they often serve a vital functional purpose in maintaining your baby’s comfort and your own peace of mind.
1. Temperature Regulation & Comfort
Maintaining a stable body temperature is crucial for newborns, who cannot yet regulate their own heat as effectively as adults. For those with smaller babies, traditional pram suits can often feel bulky and ill-fitting.
Molis & co Newborn Footmuff: This was a complete game-changer for me. My baby was born prematurely, and I found that even the smallest "newborn" pram suits were far too big and overwhelming for them. I bought this footmuff as an alternative, and it was perfect—it provided that snug, secure "cocoon" feeling they needed without the faff of sleeves and legs. Even now that they are older, I still use it every day. It is much warmer than a standard blanket, and because of the clever tie and zipper system, it is incredibly easy to get the baby in and out quickly when you’re on the move.
John Lewis Sheepskin Liner: If you are looking for a blend of style and science, a sheepskin liner is a brilliant investment. Sheepskin is naturally thermostatic; the hollow fibers allow air to circulate, keeping your baby cool in the summer by wicking away moisture and snug in the winter by trapping heat. This specific edition is gentle on sensitive skin and adds a gorgeous, modern "luxe" aesthetic to your pram. There are many options on the market with varying price points. I personally use a John Lewis own brand one which works equally as well as some of the pricer liners you can purchase.
2. The "Helping Hand" Technology
Rockit Rechargeable Pram Rocker: Every new parent knows the "stop-start" struggle: the moment the pram stops moving or the background noise changes, the baby wakes up. This tool is designed to keep the "sleep environment" consistent, even when you’re out and about. This is quite literally an extra set of hands. The Rockit attaches to your pram handle and creates a gentle side-to-side vibration that mimics the natural motion of a moving buggy. It is a life-saver for those moments when you’re standing in a queue or trying to enjoy a rare hot coffee, as it keeps the baby dreaming without you needing to constantly jiggle the pram.
Portable White Noise Machine: A portable sound machine is the ultimate sleep cue. It masks the sudden, disruptive sounds of the outside world—sirens, barking dogs, or loud chatter—providing a consistent "hum" that mimics the soothing environment of the womb. Most portable versions clip directly onto your pram frame and are rechargeable via USB, making them an essential part of your "travel sleep kit."
To truly optimize the benefits of white noise, consistency is key. Rather than using it as a last resortfor a fussy baby, try to incorporate it as a permanent sleep cue for every single rest period. By using white noise for every nap in the pram, every daytime snooze in the cot, and throughout their entire night-time sleep, you are building a powerful auditory association. Over time, the moment your baby hears that familiar hum, their brain will begin to register that it is time to wind down.
Pumps
The decision to purchase a pump is deeply personal and depends entirely on your feeding journey. Whether you plan to express occasionally to allow a partner to take over the "dream feed," or you need a robust system for returning to work, the right technology makes a world of difference.
Our personal favourite-
The Spectra pump: If you require a "workhorse" pump, the Spectra is widely regarded as a gold standard in the parenting community. As a hospital-grade pump, it is engineered with a powerful motor that is effective at both stimulating and maintaining a healthy milk supply. Unlike some jarring traditional pumps, the Spectra uses a unique "vibration" suction pattern that many mothers find far more comfortable, as it more closely mimics the natural rhythmic nursing of a baby. It is an excellent choice for those who want efficiency and quiet operation.
Bottles
Your need for buying bottles will depend on your personal plan to feed your baby. First consider if you will be breastfeeding, formula feeding, or 'combi' feeding? You may also choose to pump milk for bottle feeding to allow for more flexibility. If you are planning on exclusively breastfeeding buying bottles is not something you need to include on your list of baby essentials. However, be mindful that whatever your plan is, things may not follow that path. Even those who want to exclusively breastfeed may end up wanting to pump occasionally so their partner can share the feeds during the night. Some babies also develop reflux and may be advised to add special additives to breastmilk in a bottle to thicken the liquid to ease their reflux symptoms. If you don’t think you need to buy any bottles, you don’t need to buy them. Luckily we live in a world where you can order a set of bottles online and have it arrive at your house the next day so even when you are in the thick of the newborn trenches and find yourself in desperate need for bottles you won’t need to worry about trying to leave the house. However if the thought of being unprepared for all eventualities terrifies you, you can always buy a small set of three to have in the house just in case they are needed. Look out for freebies online and in-stores such as boots as they offer new parents a free Tommee Tippee Natural Start® 0+m Bottle and Newborn Soother 0-2m Sample Pack through their advantage card parenting club.
Two of our personal favourite bottles -
These are our all time favourite baby bottle. MAM teats are unique because they are flat and symmetrical rather than round. They are designed to mimic the shape of a nipple during breastfeeding, which often makes them a "last resort" success for babies who refuse other bottle brands. Arguably their biggest selling point is that you can sterilise a MAM bottle in the microwave in just 3 minutes using only a little water. This is a game-changer when you’re traveling or at a relative's house without a bulky steriliser. Additionally, the base of the bottle has a vented valve system designed to reduce symptoms of colic. The vented base works by preventing air bubbles from mixing with the milk, reducing the amount of air your baby swallows.
Things to consider with this bottle-
Extra Parts: Because the bottom unscrews for the anti-colic vent, there are more parts to wash and assemble compared to a standard bottle.
Tight Seals: You must ensure the silicone ring at the bottom is pressed down firmly; otherwise, the bottle can leak from the base.
Heating: Because of the plastic/silicone base, they can sometimes take a minute or two longer to warm up in a traditional bottle warmer compared to thin-walled bottles.
High chair
Around the six-month mark, weaning becomes a major part of your daily routine, marking an exciting, if slightly messy, new chapter in your baby’s development. Choosing the right high chair isn't just about finding a seat; it’s about creating a safe space where your little one can explore new textures and tastes while remaining part of the family dynamic. You’ll want a seat that is easy to clean (because the food will end up everywhere) but also keeps the baby integrated into family mealtimes at the table.
Two of our personal favourite highchairs -
IKEA Antilop (The Budget Hero): This chair is a minimalist masterpiece. It is famously easy to sanitise—with no fabric nooks for food to hide in, you can wipe it down in seconds or even hose it off after a particularly messy session. Its lightweight frame and removable legs make it the perfect "travel" high chair for trips to the grandparents.
Baby Elegance Mash: I personally use this model because of its incredible versatility. Unlike standard high chairs, it comes with a dedicated newborn seat attachment. This allows you to have your baby at "counter height" while you are cooking or eating, keeping them involved and safe before they are even ready for solid foods. It effectively bridges the gap between a floor bouncer and a traditional high chair.
Bouncers
In those early months, you quickly realize that you can’t hold your baby every second of the day, no matter how much you might want to. A bouncer serves as your "extra pair of hands," providing a safe, ergonomic place for your baby to observe the world while you get things done, whether that’s finally finishing a hot cup of tea or folding a load of laundry. The right bouncer should offer gentle, natural movement that soothes the baby without overstimulating them.
Two of our personal favourite bouncers -
BabyBjörn Bouncer Bliss: This is a premium investment, but the quality is unmatched. It uses your baby’s own movements to create a natural, soothing bounce, no batteries or cords required. It is designed to support the baby's back, neck, and head perfectly, and when not in use, it folds entirely flat for storage. Tip: These are built to last; if the retail price is too high, they are a fantastic item to source second-hand on sites like Vinted.
Maxi-Cosi Loa Bouncer: I have this model and find it to be a brilliant, cost-effective alternative to the Björn. It offers a similarly chic, minimalist aesthetic and a compact fold, making it ideal for modern homes where you want baby gear to blend in rather than take over.
Beds
Safe sleep is the cornerstone of the newborn phase, but it’s also the area where parents often feel the most overwhelmed by choice. Between bedside cribs, Moses baskets, and daytime "nests," the goal is to balance your baby’s safety with your own need for convenience and proximity. Your choice of crib will depend on your room size, your recovery after birth, and how much you value being able to reach out and touch your baby during the night.
Some of our favourite safe sleep solutions-
SnuzPod Bedside Crib: In our experience, the SnuzPod is the gold standard. It allows for safe co-sleeping by attaching to the side of your bed, giving you the ability to comfort or feed your baby without actually leaving your duvet. The mesh breathable sides and the "reflux tilt" feature make it a superior choice for both safety and comfort.
The Dock-A-Tot: While a Moses basket is a classic choice for daytime napping, many babies find them a bit restrictive after a few weeks as they begin to stretch out and move. This is where a supervised "nest" for the living room comes into its own. The Dock-A-Tot (formerly known as the Sleepyhead) is the industry leader for a reason; it provides a familiar, cozy, and womb-like environment for your baby to lounge in while you are right beside them. It’s particularly useful for keeping them comfortable on the sofa or a large rug, allowing them to feel secure without being "caged" in by the high sides of a basket.
The Reality Check: There is no getting around it, the Dock-A-Tot is a luxury item with a high price tag to match (usually retailing between £130–£180). Because they are only used for the first 8 months or so, many parents find the "price-per-use" a bit steep. If you love the look but not the cost, keep an eye on Vinted or Facebook Marketplace. Because the covers are fully removable and washable, they are one of the best items to buy second-hand; you can often find them for £40–£50 and just pop the cover in a hot wash to make it feel brand new.
Excellent Alternatives: If you prefer to buy new but want a more budget-friendly option, there are some brilliant alternatives that offer the same cozy lounging experience:
1. Purflo Sleep Tight Baby Bed: A fantastic mid-range option that is often praised for its breathability and firmer base.
2. Babymoov Cosydream: A slightly different take, designed by an osteopath to support the baby's position and help with things like reflux and flat-head syndrome, usually at a fraction of the Dock-A-Tot price.
3. Snuggle Me Organic: Similar in price to the Dock-A-Tot but with a unique "hugging" design that many babies find even more soothing.
Safety Reminder: It is vital to remember that baby nests and "pods" are for supervised lounging only. Because of their soft, cushioned sides, they do not meet the same "firm and flat" safety standards as a cot. For unsupervised overnight sleep, always use a flat, firm mattress like that in the SnuzPod or a Moses basket.
The Full-Size Crib - The IKEA Sniglar (The Reliable Minimalist):
Once your baby outgrows their bedside crib or Moses basket—usually around the six-month mark—you’ll need a more permanent solution for their nursery. While there are some stunning designer cribs on the market that cost upwards of £500, many parents find that a simpler, more affordable model does the job just as well, especially since it only gets used for a few years.
If you want a no-frills, sturdy, and incredibly safe crib, the IKEA Sniglar is a cult favourite among savvy parents. It is made of solid beech, which is a durable natural material that is much more sustainable (and breathable) than many plastic or fiberboard alternatives.
Why we love it: Its minimalist "Scandi" look fits perfectly into almost any nursery decor without being overwhelming. It features two mattress heights: a higher setting for when they are newborns to save your back, and a lower setting for once they start pulling themselves up to stand.
The "Chewer" Benefit: A hidden perk of this crib is that it is often sold in untreated, unpainted wood. If your baby turns out to be a "crib chewer" (which many do once they start teething!), you don't have to worry about them ingesting paint or lacquer.
Personalize it Safely: Because the wood is untreated, it’s a blank canvas for a DIY project. I actually chose to paint mine to match our nursery. If you do this, I highly recommend using Little Greene "Intelligent" paint. It’s specifically certified as "Child-Safe" (under the Toy Paint Regulations), meaning it’s non-toxic and has zero VOCs. It gives the crib a premium, custom look while giving you total peace of mind if they do decide to have a nibble on the rails!
The Price Point: At around £60, it is unbeatable value. It’s so affordable that many parents use the money they saved here to invest in a higher-quality, breathable mattress, which is where the comfort really happens.
A Small Critique: Unlike more expensive "convertible" cribs, the Sniglar is a standard cot size. While you can eventually remove one side to create a toddler bed, some parents find the assembly a bit of an IKEA "test," so make sure you have a spare hour and a patient partner!
Monitors
The peace of mind that comes with a high-quality baby monitor is priceless, especially when you finally transition your baby into their own nursery or start reclaiming your evenings in the living room. Modern monitors offer everything from crystal-clear night vision to room temperature alerts, allowing you to keep a watchful eye without having to creep into the room and risk waking them up. Whether you want a high-tech video feed or a simple, reliable audio link, finding the right fit for your home layout is key. The first decision you’ll need to make is whether you want a Wi-Fi or a Non-Wi-Fi (often called FHSS) monitor.
Wi-Fi Monitors: These connect to your home internet and allow you to see the feed on your smartphone via an app. They are great for working parents who want to check in from the office, but they rely heavily on a stable internet connection and come with minor security risks if not properly password-protected.
Non-Wi-Fi Monitors: These use a dedicated "closed-loop" radio signal to transmit video directly to a handheld parent unit. They are 100% hack-proof, don't require an app, and will still work even if your internet goes down. They are the "plug-and-play" heroes of the baby world.
Two of our favourite NON-WIFI monitors:
Baby Sense Max View Pro: If you want a high-definition view of your little one, this is a top-tier choice. It offers a large screen and excellent pan/tilt features so you can see every corner of the cot.
VTech VM819: A great, reliable option that won't break the bank. It can be easily mounted to the wall or used with a universal holder that attaches directly to the cot frame, giving you the perfect overhead angle.
Steriliser
Keeping bottles and dummies clean is a non-negotiable for the first 12 months while your baby’s immune system is still developing. While the task can feel like a never-ending chore, the right equipment can streamline the process significantly. From traditional cold-water methods to high-tech electric models that dry the bottles for you, your choice should reflect how much counter space you have and how many bottles you find yourself washing in a day.
Three of our favourite sterilisers-
Milton Cold Water Steriliser: This is what I use. It is basic, easy, and very cheap. You simply fill it with water and a Milton tablet, and it stays sterile for 24 hours.
MAM Steam Steriliser: A great choice if you are already using MAM bottles, as it is designed to fit their specific shapes perfectly.
Phillips Steriliser and Dryer: If you hate waiting for bottles to air-dry (which can take ages), this model is worth the investment as it sterilisers and then bone-dries the bottles in one cycle.
Washing and bathing
Bathtime is often one of the most cherished rituals of the day—a chance to wind down and bond after the chaos of feedings and naps. However, for many new parents, the logistics of bathing a slippery newborn can feel a little daunting. The key is to have a setup that feels secure for the baby and comfortable for you. Whether you’re looking for a standalone tub to save your back or gentle, organic products for delicate skin, choosing the right essentials can turn a stressful chore into a soothing spa-like experience for your little one.
Our tried and tested bathing essentials:
Skip Hop Moby Bath: This is a fantastic standalone option, meaning you don't have to fill a whole adult bath for every wash. It features a brilliant "3-stage" design with a mesh newborn insert seat that cradles them perfectly. As they grow, you can adjust the sling to a seated position, and eventually remove it altogether, making it a tub that truly grows with your baby.
Nala’s Baby: Founded by parents who wanted a "clean" alternative for their daughter, this brand is a must for those conscious about ingredients. Their range is 99% naturally derived and free from the "nasties" like SLS and parabens. It’s perfect for newborns, especially if you’re looking for something that is both skin-kind and planet-friendly.
Child’s Farm: A household name for a reason, Child’s Farm is the gold standard for babies with sensitive or eczema-prone skin. Their bubble baths and hair washes are dermatologically and paediatrician approved, making them a safe, reliable choice that smells incredible without being irritating.
Neal’s Yard Remedies: If you want to add a touch of luxury to the evening routine, Neal's Yard is the way to go. Their organic baby range is infused with calming lavender and chamomile, which is perfect for a "bath-to-bed" wind-down. It’s a bit of an investment, but a little goes a long way, and the quality is unmatched for organic skincare.
Clothing
Building a baby’s first wardrobe is one of the most fun parts of prep, but it can also be the most expensive if you aren't careful. The reality is that babies grow at an alarming rate, sometimes jumping a whole size in a matter of weeks, so your strategy will likely be a mix of "investment" pieces for photos and "practical" basics for the daily blowout.
While some parents love to curate a designer wardrobe, others prefer to keep it budget-friendly since everything eventually ends up covered in milk or mud. Vinted is an absolute lifesaver here; you can find high-end brands like Mori or Organic Zoo for a fraction of the price, often in "New with Tags" condition.
My Vinted Rule of Thumb: To keep things affordable, I treat my Vinted balance as a "closed loop." Sell the items your baby has outgrown and keep that money in your Vinted account. Use only that credit to buy the next size up. It’s a brilliant way to cycle through a beautiful wardrobe without spending "real" money from your bank account every few months.
Building a Collection Early- One of the smartest ways to manage the cost of a baby’s wardrobe is to think several seasons ahead. I actually started collecting bits and pieces from sales and charity shops even before I had a baby! If you see a beautiful winter coat in a summer clearance sale, don’t be afraid to buy it in a "12-18 months" or "2-3 years" size. By shopping the off-season sales and keeping a stash of larger sizes in a "grow-into" box, you ensure that when the next season hits, you already have a curated collection of high-quality pieces ready to go. Charity shops are also absolute gold mines for this; you can often find brand-new, high-street items for a couple of pounds simply because another parent over-purchased. It takes a little bit of storage space and some forward-planning, but the savings over the first few years are huge.
Our favourite clothing brands and styles:
Bonds Wondersuits: If you buy nothing else, buy these. They have a legendary reputation because the sizing is incredibly generous and the fabric is super stretchy, meaning they last months longer than standard sleepsuits.
Top tip: Whatever brand you choose, prioritize zips over poppers. Trying to line up 12 tiny metal poppers during a 3 a.m. nappy change is a chore no parent needs!
Mori: Known for their "buttery-soft" signature fabric (a blend of organic cotton and bamboo), Mori is the ultimate for sleepwear. It’s thermoregulating and incredibly gentle on sensitive newborn skin.
Mini Rodini: For the parents who want something bold. This Scandinavian brand is famous for quirky, hand-drawn prints, think lightning bolts, pandas, and vibrant colours. It’s playful, sustainable, and very "cool kid" aesthetic.
Claude & Co: Home of the iconic "Milking It" slogan. Their style is gender-neutral, featuring earthy tones and high-quality ribbed fabrics that look beautiful and feel premium.
Organic Zoo: If you love a minimalist, whimsical vibe, this is it. Their olive branch and moon prints are instantly recognisable. The heavy-duty organic cotton is excellent quality and washes like a dream.
Konges Sløjd: This Danish brand is the epitome of "Scandi-chic." Their clothes feature delicate, vintage-inspired prints (like their famous cherries or lemons) and muted, sophisticated palettes.
Zara: The go-to for affordable high-street fashion. Zara Baby is brilliant for "mini-adult" styles, think linen rompers, chunky knits, and trendy co-ords that look far more expensive than they are.
Arket: Part of the H&M group but with a focus on longevity. Their baby range is full of clean lines, solid colours, and durable basics designed to be passed down through multiple children.
Primark: Don’t sleep on Primark for the basics! Their 100% cotton bodysuits and vests are incredibly affordable and, surprisingly, wash really well. They are perfect for those "messy" days where you might just need to throw a vest away.
Petit Bateau: A classic French heritage brand. They are the masters of the "nautical" look, expect Breton stripes, high-quality cotton, and timeless designs that never go out of style.
Vertbaudet: Great for practical, French-designed clothing. They often have clever features like "evolutive" waistbands that grow with the baby, making them a very smart, mid-range choice.
Ralph Lauren: The ultimate for "preppy" baby style. Their tiny polo shirts and cable-knit jumpers are adorable for special occasions or gifting.
Trotters: A British staple for traditionalists. If you want smocked rompers, Peter Pan collars, or the "Prince George" look, Trotters is your destination.
Bonpoint & La Coqueta: These are your high-end, luxury choices. Bonpoint offers effortless Parisian elegance, while La Coqueta specializes in stunning Spanish traditional wear (think intricate smocking and heavy collars). These are "heirloom" pieces, perfect to buy second-hand on Vinted for a wedding or christening.
Another Fox: For parents who want an "edgier" look. Their collections are often inspired by streetwear, featuring leopard prints and "cool" silhouettes that stand out from the typical pastel baby crowd.
The "Newborn Industrial Complex" is designed to make you feel like every gadget and designer sleepsuit is a necessity for your baby’s happiness. But as you navigate these first few months, you’ll quickly realize that your baby doesn't care about the brand of their bouncer or the price tag on their crib, they just care about you.
The goal of this guide isn't to tell you that you need a house full of gear; it’s to help you identify the specific "helping hands" that will make your unique lifestyle easier. Whether you choose to invest in a high-end travel system for city life or prefer the budget-friendly brilliance of an IKEA high chair and a Vinted wardrobe, remember that there is no "right" way to shop for a baby.
Our best advice? Start with the essentials, trust your gut, and don't be afraid to change course if a certain product isn't working for you. Parenthood is the ultimate learning curve, and eventually, you’ll find the rhythm and the tools that work for your family.