Initial equipment for your baby.
Initial baby equipment – What do you really need?
The birth of a baby is an exciting and emotional event that raises many questions – especially when it comes to the right initial equipment. What do you really need for a baby? Which purchases are essential, and which items make everyday life easier for you as a mum or dad? With the vast range of baby products available, it’s easy to lose track and perhaps buy things that end up being rarely used in everyday life.
In this guide, we would like to help you choose the most important items for your newborn. From the sleeping environment to practical accessories for the changing area and beyond, Pram, , Baby carriers, , Baby slings and the first items of clothing – we’ll show you what you should look out for when putting together your baby’s first essentials and how to specifically choose the products that truly offer added value.
Our aim is to provide you with a practical checklist and helpful tips, so that you can tailor your baby's first essentials to your individual needs. This way, you’ll have everything important for the start of family life – and, above all, the reassuring feeling of being perfectly prepared when it comes to baby items. Let the anticipation begin.
Here is the most important information on the topic of baby starter equipment at a glance:
Chapter 1: Baby Starter Kit for Home
Chapter 2: Out and About with the Baby - Essential Outdoor Equipment for Babies
Chapter 3: Clothing and Baby Fashion for the First Months
Initial equipment for winter and summer babies – The essentials at a glance
Checklist for initial baby essentials to download
Chapter 4: Baby Starter Kit for Nutrition and Hygiene
Chapter 5: Toys for Babies – Encouragement and Fun Right from the Start
FAQs about the topic of initial baby equipment
Chapter 1: Baby Starter Kit for Home
Set up sleeping area
A safe and cosy place to sleep is one of the most important elements in the initial equipment for your baby. In the first year of life, your child spends a lot of time lying down, so it makes sense to gather plenty of information when putting together the sleeping area.
Bedside cot and bassinet: For the first few months, a bedside cot is a good choice. It allows you to respond quickly to your child at night and provides closeness and security without you having to get up. Alternatively, a bassinet is also practical, as you can move it flexibly around the house during the day.
Mattress and sleeping bags: When choosing a mattress, you should opt for a firm, breathable version that fits well with the bedside cot or bassinet. A sleeping bag is often more suitable than a blanket, as it reduces the risk of overheating and strangulation. This way, your child will not only sleep safely but also comfortably.
Practical recommendations for a safe sleeping environment
Room temperature and air circulation: Keep the room temperature between 16 and 18 degrees to create a comfortable environment. A slightly open window can provide fresh air.
Choice of materials: Natural materials such as cotton or wool offer breathable and gentle solutions for delicate baby skin.
Chapter 2: Out and About with the Baby - Essential Outdoor Equipment for Babies
Prams and pushchairs
The right one Pram is an essential part of your baby’s basic equipment. There are many different models designed to meet various needs – from Combi pushchair right up to compact Buggies. Here is a brief overview of what you should consider when choosing the right pram:
Combi pushchair: These pushchairs are particularly practical, as they can be used from birth right through to toddler age. They offer various attachments, such as a carrycot for newborns and a seat unit for older children. A combi pushchair is ideal if you want to remain flexible in the long term.
Buggy: As soon as your child is a little older and able to sit up, a buggy becomes a practical alternative. Buggies are lighter and more compact, perfect for travelling or if you live in a city with limited storage space.
Our expert tip: In our practical PICO³ buggy with tub, your happiness can begin to explore the world comfortably and safely from the very first day.
Tips for choosing the perfect pram
Terrain and wheels: For walks in the city, smaller wheels are perfectly adequate. However, if you like to go into the woods or on uneven paths, make sure to choose a model with larger, sturdy wheels.
Folding mechanism and weight: A pushchair that is easy to fold makes everyday handling easier for you and fits better in a car boot.
Safety features: Good suspension and brakes are important to provide your baby with the necessary safety and comfort during walks.
Here you will find our bestsellers.
Baby carriers and slings as part of the initial equipment
A Baby carrier or a Baby sling is a great way to give your child closeness while keeping your hands free. For infants and small babies, a baby wrap is often particularly suitable, as it can be flexibly adjusted to fit the size and shape of the body and provides the baby with a cosy environment.
Slings: They are particularly suitable for the early days and offer an ergonomic position for the child. Although they require a bit of practice when tying, they are very adaptable.
Baby carriers: For older babies who need more support, or parents who want something quicker to put on, pre-shaped baby carriers are ideal. Look for ergonomic models that are comfortable for both you and your baby.
Advantages of babywearing in everyday life
Bonding and security: Carrying promotes the bond between you and your child and conveys a sense of safety.
Practical mobility: Especially in confined spaces or on uneven paths, a baby carrier is often more manageable than a pram and gives you greater flexibility.
Chapter 3: Clothing and Baby Fashion for the First Months
Practical clothing for newborns
The right clothing is an important part of your baby’s first set of essentials. Especially in the first few months, simple, practical garments are needed that can be put on and taken off quickly and are comfortable for the baby. Here are some indispensable basics and suggestions:
Bodysuits and rompers: Bodysuits and rompers are part of the basic equipment. Models with press studs or wrap fastenings are best suited, as they make dressing and undressing easier and ensure the baby feels comfortable.
Pyjamas and sleeping bags: For the night, pyjamas and sleeping bags are ideal as they keep your baby warm and offer him/her freedom of movement. Look for materials such as cotton or wool-silk blends, which are gentle on the skin and breathable.
Seasonal clothing: Depending on the time of year, special items of clothing are important. For winter babies, for example, hats, gloves and warm overalls are advisable, while summer babies should be equipped with light hats and breathable fabrics.
Tips for Buying and Caring for Baby Clothes
Choice of materials: Choose natural, soft materials such as cotton or wool-silk wherever possible. These fabrics are kind to the skin and reduce the risk of skin irritation.
Choosing sizes: Newborns grow quickly – clothing in sizes 50/56 and 62/68 is usually sufficient for the first weeks and months. Clothing that is too tight can make your baby feel uncomfortably restricted.
Easy to care for and durable: Choose garments that retain their shape even after frequent washing and do not require complicated care.
Changing and care accessories as part of the initial equipment
The nappy-changing routine is part of everyday life for parents. Here are the most important items for the changing area:
Changing mat and care products: A soft changing mat is comfortable for your baby and easy to clean. The basic essentials for the changing area include nappies, wet wipes and a gentle care cream.
Changing chest of drawers or changing table: Depending on space and personal preference, you can choose either a changing chest of drawers or a separate changing table. Well-thought-out storage is important so that everything is within easy reach.
Tips for equipping the changing area
Hygiene and comfort: Keep the changing area clean and comfortable. A small bin right next to the changing table saves you the trip to the main bin and makes nappy changing easier.
Heat source: A radiant heater can provide a pleasant changing environment in winter or at low room temperatures, ensuring that your baby does not get cold.
Important: Mum, remember to think of yourself too. Even during your pregnancy, nursing bras, comfortable clothes in a larger size, a nursing pillow and other things that make you feel good can help.
Initial equipment for winter and summer babies – The essentials at a glance
Initial equipment for winter babies
Heat-retaining clothing:
Long-sleeved bodysuits and rompers made of wool or fleece
Warm overalls or snowsuits
Hats and gloves for walks
Wool blankets for extra warmth in the pram
Soft woollen shoes that keep little feet warm
Sleeping area:
Warm sleeping bags (e.g. padded or made of thick cotton)
Heating or heat lamp at the changing table to keep the baby warm while getting changed
Accessories for on the go:
Footmuff for the Pram or Baby car seat
Sheepskin covers for extra comfort and insulation
Weatherproof, protective Pram covers
Initial equipment for summer babies
Light and breathable clothing:
Short-sleeved bodysuits and rompers made of cotton or linen
Thin, lightweight caps for sun protection
Airy sleeping bags made of cotton or muslin
Sleeping area:
Light blankets or sleeping bags (e.g. made from muslin) for warm nights
Good ventilation options in the bedroom and, if necessary, a fan at a safe distance
Accessories for on the go:
Sun protection for the pram or the baby car seat
Insect protection for prams and cots
Summer footmuff or thin editions in the pram, which are breathable and washable
Your accessories.
Chapter 4: Baby Starter Kit for Nutrition and Hygiene
Bottles, nursing pillows and accessories
Your baby's nutrition is a central part of everyday life and is an essential element of the initial baby essentials. Whether you are breastfeeding or bottle-feeding – some products make feeding easier and more pleasant.
Bottles and teats: If you are bottle-feeding, a few bottles and different teat sizes are useful. Bottles that are easy to clean and ergonomically designed are particularly recommended.
Nursing pillow: A nursing pillow supports a relaxed breastfeeding position and relieves the back and arms. It can also be used as a positioning pillow when the baby needs to be supported or placed in a comfortable position for sleeping.
Muslin cloths/bibs/washcloths: These little helpers belong in every changing bag and at every changing station. They are versatile and protect clothing and furniture from stains.
Tips for selecting and caring for bottles and accessories
Materials: Make sure the bottles are BPA-free and fit comfortably in your hand.
Cleaning: Boil bottles and teats regularly to ensure optimal hygiene.
Care products for your baby
A newborn's skin is particularly sensitive and requires gentle care products. Here is a list of the most important products that should be included in the basic equipment for baby care:
Care creams and oils: Choose mild, fragrance-free products specially designed for baby skin. A light care cream protects the skin without weighing it down.
Nappies and wet wipes: An adequate supply of nappies is essential. Make sure to choose absorbent and breathable nappies that are gentle on the skin.
Baby bath and bath thermometer: A special baby bath makes it easier to bathe your baby safely, and a bath thermometer helps you check the optimal water temperature.
Notes on caring for your baby's skin
Less is more: Excessive moisturising is usually unnecessary. For sensitive skin, mild oils or even pure water are often sufficient.
Room temperature: A comfortable room temperature when bathing and changing protects the baby from getting cold and promotes relaxation.
Chapter 5: Toys for Babies – Encouragement and Fun Right from the Start
First toys for newborns
Even in the first few months, your baby responds to various sensory impressions such as colours, sounds and touches. Here is a selection of toys that are well suited as a basic set for babies and gently stimulate the senses.
Grasping toys and rattles: These simple toys promote hand-eye coordination and the sense of touch. Make sure they are made from non-toxic materials and are easy for little hands to hold.
Music boxes: A music box can have a calming effect and prepare the baby for sleep. Many babies develop a strong attachment to their favourite tune, which helps them to relax and settle down.
Promotion of motor skills and perception
As soon as the baby starts to turn and reach out, movable toys and soft materials become especially exciting. Here are some recommendations:
Cloth books and teething rings: Soft cloth books with various textures or teething rings are ideal when the baby is getting their first teeth. These toys help to relieve the pain of teething and at the same time promote the sense of touch.
Mobiles and activity toys: A mobile above the changing table or cot attracts the baby's attention and promotes visual perception and concentration. Activity toys with different textures and sounds are a good choice for babies who are beginning to explore their surroundings.
Safety and variety of toys for babies
Materials: Toys for newborns should be free from harmful substances and washable. Look for high-quality materials such as cotton or silicone.
Safety: Make sure there are no small parts that the baby could swallow. Everything should be securely fastened and safely constructed.
FAQs about Baby Starter Kits
What belongs to the basic equipment for a baby?
The initial essentials for a baby include clothing, a changing bag, a cot, nappies, and care items (shampoo, baby nail scissors, etc.). Of course, a Pram of great importance, as it allows you to be out and about with your baby in everyday life with ease.
Is there a checklist for the initial baby essentials?
Yes, a checklist helps to organise all the important things for your baby, such as baby clothes, cot, and essentials. We have compiled all the important items into checklists for you, to make it easier for you to purchase products for your little one.
When should you buy the initial baby equipment?
Ideally from the middle of pregnancy; this leaves enough time for the decision and ordering. With regard to a pram, we recommend that you buy a lucky companion around the 6th month of pregnancy. This way, you still have plenty of time before your baby arrives.
What do I need for my baby's first weeks of life?
For the first few weeks of life, a selection of clothing, a changing mat, toiletries, and a pram are indispensable for your newborn. However, every family decides for themselves which products or purchases they truly need in everyday life with a baby and which they do not. So, try not to let others influence you too much and trust your own mum or dad instincts when it comes to your baby's first essentials.
What size baby clothes should I buy for a newborn?
Size 50/56 is ideal for most newborns at birth and fits well during the first few weeks.
What are important products for the baby’s room?
A cot, a changing table, toys, and baby clothes (bodysuits) belong in the baby’s room.
What items should parents get for when they're out and about?
For when you’re out and about, a changing bag, baby car seat, nappies and a small changing mat are practical. We also recommend always having a change of clothes and some snacks/drinks with you.
What belongs in the nappy bag?
The nappy bag should contain nappies, washcloths/wet wipes, a change of clothes and baby socks/tights for spontaneous nappy changes. In our large changing bags With plenty of storage space and practical compartments, you can also store several everyday items.
What should be considered when choosing a pushchair?
There are many criteria you should consider when choosing a suitable pram. We know that the range on offer is very large and can sometimes be confusing. With our interactive Pram Quiz you’ll find the perfect model for you and your family in just a few minutes. Give it a try.
Which products are ideal for baby sleeping bags?
Baby sleeping bags offer safety while sleeping as well as during walks with the pram, and can even be used at home. Our sleeping bags are made exclusively from high-quality materials, are certified to the Oeko-Tex Standard 100, and are breathable.
What are the advantages of a baby sling/carrier?
A baby sling or carrier provides closeness and security for your baby while giving you freedom of movement at the same time. Feel free to browse our online shop for the comfortable Baby carriers in different colours.
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