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Newborn Essentials Checklist UK: What You Actually Need For your Baby (Soft Touch Must‑Haves)

Bringing a newborn home is magical… and slightly chaotic. If you’re staring at 47 open tabs wondering what you actually need, this friendly checklist keeps it simple (and cosy).


Bonus: We've added easy “shop” spots so you can grab Soft Touch newborn essentials on Amazon in a couple of clicks.


Soft Touch baby ribbed cotton garment set OEKO-TEX Certified

Quick Newborn Essentials Checklist (save this!)

Use this as your “don’t overthink it” list:

  • Bodysuits / vests

  • Sleepsuits

  • Bibs

  • Muslin squares

  • Baby blanket

  • Hat

  • Mittens

  • Socks


Quick shop:

Or get a bundle of items in one go (Super Convenient!):


1) The everyday basics (0–3 months)

These are the items you’ll reach for on repeat—especially during those “OMG how is it only 10am?” days. Made from 100% Oeko-Tex certified cotton.

Bodysuits / vests

Look for soft, comfy everyday pieces that make changes quick and fuss-free.

Soft Touch baby 100% cotton Newborn Bodysuit vest

Sleepsuits

Perfect for day-to-night comfort (and fewer outfit decisions).

Soft Touch baby 100% cotton Newborn sleepsuit romper

Garment Bundle

Get a complete co-ordinated set in one single click.


2) Keeping babies cosy: blankets & layers

If there’s one thing parents don’t regret buying, it’s a good blanket. You’ll use it at home, in the pram, on visits to family… everywhere.

What to look for: soft feel, easy care, and something that stays lovely wash after wash.


Soft Touch baby Newborn plush cable knit wrap with sherpa and pompom
Plush cable knit wrap with sherpa lining - warm, cosy and irresistably cute!
Soft Touch baby 100% cotton Newborn Oeko-Tex certified NHS approved cellular cot blanket
NHS Approved Essentials Cellular Cotton Baby Blanket
Soft Touch baby Newborn waffle blanket
2-Pack Essentials Baby Waffle Wrap

3) Tiny accessories you’ll use nonstop

These are the “why didn’t I buy more of these?” essentials.

Newborn hats


Soft Touch baby 100% cotton Newborn plain hat
Great for those early days and popping out for fresh air.

Mittens


Soft Touch baby 100% cotton Newborn plain anti-scratch mittens
A simple add-on that can help with little scratches.

Socks


Soft Touch baby 100% cotton Newborn ankle socks
Because newborn socks have a secret talent: disappearing.

4) Muslins: the multi-tasking essential


Soft Touch baby 100% cotton Newborn Oeko-Tex certified muslin squares 70cm x 70cm burp cloth
Muslins are the MVP of newborn life. You’ll use them for feeding, burping, quick clean-ups, pram shade, and as a “just in case” backup for… everything.

5) Newborn essentials for leaving the house (nappy bag basics)

Here’s the quick “grab and go” list:

  • 1–2 spare outfits

  • Muslins

  • Bib

  • Socks

  • A cosy blanket

DID YOU KNOW...

You can use a handy tool to create a Baby Wishlist on Amazon, to save all your top picks to view later:


FAQs

What do I really need for a newborn in the UK?

Start with bodysuits, sleepsuits, muslins, a blanket, bibs, hat, mittens and socks—then add extras based on your routine.

How many bodysuits does a newborn need?

Enough for regular changes (spares help!). If you’re doing laundry often, you can keep it lean; if not, add more. We recommend 6-12 as a good starting point!

What should I pack in my hospital bag ready for my baby?

A couple of outfits, socks, hat, mittens, muslins and a cellular blanket are common essentials.

Are muslin squares worth it for newborns?

Yes—multi-use, lightweight, and you’ll be reaching for them constantly.

What’s the best type of blanket for a newborn?

One that’s soft, easy-care, and practical for pram/cot/home use. We recommend at least one cellular baby blanket that can be used in the cot, and one plush blanket for travel and colder days

What are the best newborn essentials to buy as a gift?

Blankets, muslins, socks, hats and bibs are always appreciated. It helps that Soft Touch products are all beautifully designed and of great quality!

How do I choose the right size for newborn clothes?

Many parents start with newborn/0–3 months depending on baby’s size—when in doubt, sizing up can be handy.

When should I start buying newborn essentials?

Any time in the final trimester is common—earlier if you want to spread costs and feel organised.

Tiny note from us

Soft Touch has been a trusted UK babywear brand since 1986—made for everyday comfort, gifting, and those sweet first memories. We pride ourselves in providing great quality products at affordable prices.

Soft Touch Logo

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