Newborn Essentials in Australia: The Nappy Change Checklist
For nappy changes, a newborn needs less than the baby shops suggest: nappies, something gentle to clean with, a barrier for the skin, a change mat, somewhere for dirty nappies and a spare outfit. Everything else is optional.
With our first babies, we bought half the shop. Most of it sat in a drawer. Here's what we'd actually buy again.
The at-home checklist
- Nappies. Disposable or cloth. You'll go through a lot in the first weeks.
- Something to clean with. Wipes, cloth wipes or cotton pads.
- A barrier for the skin. A nappy cream, or liniment, a natural, no-rinse nappy change cleansing lotion that cleans and leaves a light barrier that helps protect against nappy rash in one step.
- A change mat. You don't need a dedicated change table. A mat on a bed, the floor or a sturdy dresser works.
- A nappy bin or wet bag.
- Spare clothes. Newborn poo has a habit of escaping.
- Hand sanitiser, for you.
Keep it all in one basket or caddy within arm's reach. And never step away from your baby on a raised surface, not even for a second.
What you can skip
- Wipe warmers
- Five different creams "just in case"
- A dedicated change table if you're short on space
- Bulk-buying one brand of newborn nappies before you know it fits your baby
The nappy bag checklist
- 3–4 nappies
- A small bottle of liniment and a few cotton pads, or a pack of wipes
- A portable change mat
- A spare outfit
- Nappy bags or a small wet bag
- Snacks and water for you
Going to hospital?
Check your hospital's list first, as some supply nappies for the first days. Pack a few nappies and something gentle to clean with, and keep the rest at home.
Quick questions
How many nappies does a newborn use a day?
Often eight or more in the first weeks, so stock up on the size that fits.
Do I need nappy cream for a newborn?
A barrier at each change helps protect the skin. Some parents use a cream; liniment does it while you clean.
What's a good nappy change gift for new parents?
Something they'll use every day. The Full Family Bundle covers home and the nappy bag, and the First Try Bundle is a lovely smaller gift.