Dear Readers, becoming a mother is a beautiful, life-changing experience, but let’s be honest, it can also be overwhelming. I still remember the day I found out I was pregnant. My heart was bursting with joy, but my mind immediately jumped into overdrive with questions like, What do I need to buy? How do I prepare for a newborn? Am I ready for this?
If you’re a first-time mom in India, know you’re not alone in these thoughts. The good news? You don’t need to buy everything right away. With a little planning and a handy checklist, you can make the early days of motherhood a lot smoother.
Here it is, your Newborn Essentials Checklist:
1. Clothing Essentials (Because Babies = Laundry Machines)
Newborns go through more clothes than you think, thanks to spit-ups, diaper leaks, and all the drool. But that doesn’t mean you need a closet full of outfits.
Must-Haves:
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6-8 jhablas (cotton front-open tops) – These are a blessing in Indian weather, especially in summer. Front-open styles make dressing so much easier.
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4-6 pairs of soft cotton bottoms or pajamas
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4-6 onesies or rompers – Great for nighttime or when you’re stepping out for a short visit.
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Caps, mittens, and booties – A couple of sets will do, especially for the early days.
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Soft swaddles or wrapping cloths (4-6) – Muslin swaddles are breathable and perfect for our Indian climate.
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1-2 warm sweaters or jackets (seasonal) – If your baby is a winter baby, you’ll need these.
Tip:
Skip anything with too many buttons or frills, comfort comes first!
2. Diapering Station (Your New BFF)
Let’s talk diapers. This is where I felt the most clueless before delivery. So, here’s the lowdown:
Must-Haves:
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Newborn diapers (disposable or cloth) – Start with a small pack to test what suits your baby.
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Cotton nappies (if going traditional) – Old-school Indian families often swear by these.
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Diaper rash cream – Must-have for preventing rashes, especially in humid places.
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Changing mat – Trust me, you don’t want to clean your bed multiple times a day.
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Wipes or cotton and warm water – Sensitive skin needs gentle cleaning.
Tip:
Always apply a little coconut oil or rash cream during every change. Prevention is better than a cure!
3. Feeding Essentials (No Judgement Zone Here)
Whether you breastfeed, pump, or formula-feed, every mom’s journey is different, and every path is valid.
If Breastfeeding:
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Nursing bras (2-3)
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Nursing pillow – Saves your back and shoulders.
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Breast pads – For leaks.
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Burp cloths (4-6) – Old cotton dupattas work great too.
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Manual breast pump (optional) – Helps if you’re planning to store milk.
If Formula Feeding:
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Formula (as recommended by your pediatrician)
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Sterilizer or boiling pot
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2-3 bottles
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Bottle brush + cleaning solution
Tip:
Stock up on snacks and water for you, too, you’ll need all the energy and hydration.
4. Bath & Hygiene (Spa Day, Baby-Style)
The first bath can be nerve-wracking—I was shaking when I held my daughter for her first one. My mom helped, and soon it became a bonding ritual.
Must-Haves:
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Baby bathtub or a large basin
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Mild baby soap and shampoo – Go for paraben-free, fragrance-light options.
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Soft baby towels (2-3) – Hooded towels are adorable and functional.
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Baby massage oil (coconut or almond) – Massaging is a tradition in Indian homes and helps with bonding and muscle development.
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Baby nail scissors or filer
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Cotton balls and earbuds (for external ear cleaning only)
Tip:
Don’t bathe your newborn daily; every 2–3 days is enough initially. Sponge baths are perfect for the first few weeks.
5. Sleeping Essentials (Because Sleep is Sacred)
Sleep? What’s that? Kidding… sort of. But setting up a cozy sleep corner can really help.
Must-Haves:
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Firm baby mattress – No pillows or heavy bedding.
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3-4 crib sheets
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1-2 light blankets or quilts
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Mosquito net – An Absolute must in most Indian cities.
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Cradle or bassinet – Traditional Indian “jhoolas” are still used in many households.
Tip:
White noise machines (or even a ceiling fan) help recreate the womb’s environment. Worked like magic for us.
6. Health & Safety Kit (For Peace of Mind)
You don’t need a huge medical kit, but a few basics go a long way.
Must-Haves:
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Digital thermometer
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Nasal aspirator
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Baby nail clipper
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Dropper or medicine spoon
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Baby-safe hand sanitizer for parents
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First-aid kit (consult your pediatrician for baby-safe meds)
Tip:
Always, always keep your pediatrician’s number handy. And don’t be afraid to ask “silly” questions—they’ve heard it all.
7. Travel Essentials (Yes, You’ll Step Out Eventually!)
When you’re ready to introduce your baby to the world (or just visit the grandparents), these will help:
Must-Haves:
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Diaper bag
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Portable changing mat
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Extra clothes, diapers, wipes
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Baby carrier or sling – Indian markets now offer many ergonomic options.
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Light blanket or cover for sun protection
Tip:
Keep a small “go bag” ready, even at home, for quick outings or doctor visits.
Mama, if you’re still reading this, take a deep breath.
This list might feel long, but you’ll build your stash gradually. Don’t let marketing pressure you into buying fancy gadgets and dozens of clothes. Babies need you more than anything else. Your warmth, your arms, your voice.
Some days will be messy. Some nights will be sleepless. But you will get through it—one diaper change, one cuddle, one tiny milestone at a time.
So, whether you’re nesting in a bustling Mumbai apartment or a quiet village in Kerala, know that you are enough. And you’ve got this.
Sending you strength, love, and lots of baby cuddles 💛
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