Product finder · 0–3 months
Tiny beginnings. Thoughtful choices.
Find useful picks for your baby’s first three months—without buying everything.
Swipe or scroll to explore 10 categories. On a keyboard, focus this row and use the arrow keys.
Everyday careNewborn DiapersFind a comfortable fit for those frequent changes.Explore the category →
Everyday careGentle Baby WipesA closer look at what touches delicate skin.Explore the category →
Everyday careMuslin & Burp ClothsLittle helpers for feeds and everyday spills.Explore the category →
If bottle-feedingFeeding BottlesStart with a thoughtful shortlist for your feeding routine.Explore the category →
For parents expressingBreast PumpsFor your expressing plans—not everyone’s shopping list.Explore the category →
Everyday careNewborn ClothingEasy changes. Comfortable everyday outfits.Explore the category →
Bath timeBaby Bath TubsMake your bath-time setup a little simpler.Explore the category →
Sleep-space shoppingCots & BassinetsStart with a suitable place for your baby to sleep.Explore the category →
If babywearingNewborn Baby CarriersCloseness, with fit and support checked carefully.Explore the category →
For car journeysRear-Facing Car SeatsA thoughtful shortlist for trips with your baby.Explore the category →
Our category comparisons are in preparation. Illustrations show generic products, not reviewed models. Choose what fits your family; this is not a must-buy checklist.
Feeding your newborn
Feeding questions in the first three months
From spotting hunger cues to choosing bottles and pumps, find a clear starting point for the questions that come up at home.
Reading your baby’s cues
01How do I know when to feed, and should I follow a schedule?
Look for early cues such as turning their head, opening their mouth or bringing their hands towards it; crying can be a later cue. There is no single timetable for every baby. Many healthy, full-term babies feed responsively, while babies with health or weight concerns may need an individual plan from their care team.
Read AAP hunger-cue guidance →02Why does my baby want another feed so soon?
Newborns often feed little and often, and their pattern can change from day to day. If you are worried about feeding, nappies or weight gain, ask your pediatrician rather than trying to judge from the time between feeds alone.
Read NHS formula-feeding questions →03How can I tell whether my baby is getting enough?
Look at the pattern over time: feeding, wet nappies and weight checks all matter. Your baby’s doctor can help interpret what is expected for their age and circumstances.
Read CDC newborn-feeding guidance →04Does my baby need water in hot weather?
WHO says exclusively breastfed babies under six months do not need extra water, even on hot days; offer feeds when your baby wants them. For formula or mixed feeding, follow your pediatrician’s advice and prepare formula exactly as directed.
Read WHO breastfeeding guidance →Choose for your routine, not a “perfect” product
01What bottle capacity should I buy?
Capacity is the bottle’s maximum, not a target for your baby to finish. If you are unsure how much to offer, ask your care team. Clear markings and a bottle that is easy to hold and clean are useful things to compare.
02Is glass, plastic or silicone best?
There is no one best material for every family. Compare weight, breakability, ease of cleaning and the maker’s care instructions. The NHS says there is no evidence that one type of bottle or teat is better than another.
Read NHS bottle-feeding advice →03How often should I clean and sterilise bottles?
Wash bottles and all their parts after every feed. Sterilising advice differs: the NHS advises sterilising feeding equipment until 12 months, while CDC guidance recommends daily sanitising for extra protection, especially for babies under two months, born prematurely or with a weakened immune system. Follow your pediatrician’s and product instructions.
Read NHS sterilising guidance →04Can I combine breastfeeding and bottle-feeding?
Many families do, using expressed milk, formula or both. If you want to continue breastfeeding, remember that replacing breastfeeds with formula can affect milk supply. A midwife, lactation professional or pediatrician can help you plan a pattern that suits your family.
Read NHS guidance on combining breast and bottle feeding →05Does my baby need to finish every bottle?
No. Let your baby pause and watch for signs they have had enough; do not pressure them to finish. A bottle’s capacity is not a target. If you are unsure how much to offer or your baby is not feeding as expected, ask your care team.
Read CDC responsive bottle-feeding guidance →06How do I prepare formula safely?
Wash your hands, use clean equipment and follow the formula label exactly, including its water-to-powder ratio and preparation steps. Guidance can vary with a baby’s age, health and local water conditions, so ask your pediatrician if your baby is very young, was born early or has special health needs.
Read CDC formula preparation and storage guidance →Know what you need before you choose
01Do I need to buy a breast pump before my baby arrives?
Not every family needs one straight away. Think about why you may pump—such as regular time apart, returning to work or advice from your care team—then compare how often you expect to use it, cleaning, power and replacement parts. If your baby may need extra support after birth, ask your maternity team what to arrange.
02How should a breast-pump flange fit?
Pumping should feel comfortable. If your nipple rubs against the sides or the fit hurts, pause and ask a lactation professional to help check the size and setup; sizes can differ between pumps.
Read University Hospitals Southampton flange guidance →03How often should I clean breast-pump parts?
Clean the parts that touch your breast or milk after every use, and let them air-dry fully. CDC recommends sanitising daily for extra protection, especially for babies under two months, born prematurely or with a weakened immune system. Check your pump’s instructions too.
Read CDC breast-pump cleaning guidance →04How should I carry expressed milk when we are out?
Use a clean, labelled container and an insulated cooler with frozen ice packs. Safe storage time depends on temperature and journey conditions; in warm weather, check current local health guidance or ask your pediatrician rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all time limit.
Read CDC breast-milk storage guidance →A practical 0–3 month starter list
What is helpful to keep ready at home?
These are sensible starting quantities for a small household rotation—not rules. Swipe through the cards and adjust for your laundry routine, feeding plan and travel needs.
About 30–36 to start
Newborn nappies
That is roughly three days at 10–12 changes a day. Start with a modest pack; size and fit can change quickly.
NHS nappy-changing guidance →
1 pack of cotton wool or 1–2 small wipe packs
Cotton wool or gentle wipes
Use cotton wool with water or choose fragrance-free, alcohol-free wipes. Keep one pack open and one spare if wipes suit your baby.
NHS nappy-changing guidance →
6–8 washable cloths
Muslin and burp cloths
A small rotation gives you clean cloths near feeding and changing spots while others are in the wash.
6 bodysuits + 4 sleepsuits
Easy-change clothes
A practical first rotation for regular changes and laundry every couple of days. Add layers for your room and season rather than buying many sizes.
1 sleep space + 2 fitted sheets
A clear, safe sleep space
Keep the sleep surface firm and flat, with only a fitted sheet. The spare lets you change a soiled sheet without adding loose bedding.
CDC safe-sleep guidance →
About 4, if your plan uses bottles
Feeding bottles
A small rotation can help while bottles are being washed and sterilised. Follow the bottle and teat age guidance and your feeding plan.
1 pump, only if useful to you
A pump, if you plan to express
You do not need to buy one just because you are expecting. Consider your plans, care-team advice, fit and cleaning before choosing.
2 towels + 2–4 soft washcloths
Bath-time towels and setup
A baby bath, clean bowl or suitable sink can work. Lay everything out first and keep your hands on your baby throughout the bath.
NHS bathing guidance →
0–1, depending on your routine
A carrier, if you enjoy babywearing
Try before relying on one if possible. Check newborn suitability, weight limits, fit and the maker’s instructions.
1 for each car you use
A suitable car seat for car trips
Check that it suits your baby and vehicle, install it as directed, and use a rear-facing seat for every journey.
AAP rear-facing car-seat guidance →Those first three months can feel like a blur of feeds, naps, nappies and wondering, “Am I doing this right?” Take a breath. Your baby does not need a perfect routine. They need warmth, responsive care and a parent who is learning alongside them.
What newborn life often looks like
Feeds and sleep may come in short, uneven stretches. Growth spurts can make a settled week suddenly feel unpredictable. This is family life with a newborn, not a sign that you are getting it wrong.
A gentle daily rhythm
- Feed responsively: notice early hunger cues such as rooting, hand-sucking or turning towards you.
- Keep awake time simple: faces, voices, cuddles and a few minutes of supervised tummy time are plenty.
- Make sleep safe: place baby on their back on a firm, flat sleep surface without loose pillows, quilts or toys.
- Protect your recovery: accept help with meals, laundry and errands whenever it is available.
Feeding without unnecessary pressure
Whether your baby is breastfed, formula-fed or combination-fed, the goal is a well-fed baby and a supported parent. Ask for practical help when feeding is painful, stressful or confusing. Another baby’s timetable is not your target.
Comfort in Indian weather
- Choose light, breathable layers in hot or humid weather.
- Check the chest or back rather than judging warmth from hands and feet alone.
- Keep direct fan or AC airflow away from your baby’s face while ventilating the room comfortably.
- Avoid kajal, powders and home remedies near the eyes, nose or mouth unless your pediatrician approves them.
Frequently asked questions
Does my newborn need a strict routine?
No. A few familiar cues can help, but responsive feeding, safe sleep and flexible days are more realistic at this stage.
How much play does a young baby need?
Your face and voice are excellent play. Add brief supervised tummy time when your baby is awake and comfortable.
How do I know when to ask for help?
Trust your observations. Contact your pediatrician about poor feeding, illness, unusual sleepiness, breathing concerns or anything that worries you.
What to read next
- As your baby becomes more alert, continue with the 3–6 Month Baby Care Guide.
- See every stage on the Baby by Age page.