Preparing Your Home for Your Newborn Baby: 10 Essentials for the First 6 Months

Get your home ready for your newborn with this essential baby checklist for the first 6 months. Discover what to buy, how to set up the nursery, and key tips for a smooth transition into motherhood.

Bringing home a newborn is a beautiful experience, but it also comes with lots of changes. Instead of buying everything in the baby store, it’s best to focus on what you truly need for the first 6 months. That way, you save yourself from unnecessary shopping trips while you’re adjusting to your new life — and to the tiny human who’ll depend on you for everything.

Here are 10 essential items to prepare, plus simple home updates that will help you transition smoothly into motherhood:

1. Baby Monitor

A reliable baby monitor will give you peace of mind when you’re not in the same room with your baby.

2. Stage 1 Baby Crib

Choose a crib with high walls for safety, especially as your baby starts moving around at 4 months.

3. Stroller

Your stroller will be your best friend. Choose one that lies flat (newborns shouldn’t sit for the first 3 months), and is spacious and comfy—perfect for naps on the go and even travel.

4. Feeding Bottles

Even if you’re breastfeeding, you’ll need bottles for pumped milk or formula while outdoors.

5. Teats/Nipples

Buy 2–3 newborn stage teats—just enough to start with. Some babies are picky!

6. Plenty of Clothes

Newborns go through many outfit changes due to leaks and spills. Stock up on onesies and essentials.

7. Re-arrange Your Bedroom

Keep the crib next to your bed for the first 3–4 months. Some moms prefer to co-sleep for up to a year, but consider moving baby to their own room after 12 months.

8. Set Up the Nursery

Have a chair for feeding, a cupboard for clothes, and a changing table ready in their room.

9. Baby Toiletries

Prepare baby-friendly skincare products and toiletries. Your baby will need daily baths.

10. Start Baby-Proofing

Make space and store away anything delicate or dangerous within reach, especially before crawling starts. This is just the first step—more baby-proofing tips coming soon on Mama’s Guides!

Maha Youssuf

A mother and a researcher specialised in motherhood, parenting and family related matters. Chief Editor, Mamas’ Guides.