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Postpartum, Newborn (0-12 months)

Newborn Essentials: Settling Back In At Home

Written by: Biostime Nutrition
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Bringing a baby home from hospital can be a huge adjustment for anyone. From working out feeding to sleep schedules, the key to making this transition as smooth as possible is to be prepared with the right essentials on hand. 

With this in mind, we’ve put together a newborn checklist that covers all the basics, from what to pack for the hospital to what to expect for your first night at home and some tips to help you navigate the first week with a newborn. 


Baby essentials for the first 3 months

When bringing your baby home from hospital for the first time, it can help to have a few essentials ready to go. This newborn baby checklist for home details all the important supplies you’ll need for your first three months:

Basic supplies

  • Newborn nappies
  • Baby wipes
  • Nappy rash cream
  • A changing table with mat

Clothing

  • Bodysuits
  • Sleeping bags
  • Socks and mittens
  • Hats
  • Bibs

Feeding

  • Breastfeeding: nursing pads, nipple cream and pump with storage bags if you're expressing.
  • Bottle feeding: bottles, a steriliser and formula

Furniture and sleeping

  • A bassinet or cot with mattress
  • Waterproof cover
  • Sheets
  • A blanket

Bathing and grooming

  • Baby bath or bath seat, towels
  • Washcloths
  • Baby Shampoo and body wash
  • A soft hairbrush
  • Nail clippers or a nail file

Travel and transport

  • A rear-facing car seat or baby capsule
  • A stroller
  • A well-stocked nappy bag with nappies, wipes, extra clothing, etc.


Bringing baby home from the hospital

Following on from our bringing your baby home from hospital checklist, it can be helpful to know what you’ll need when bringing a baby home from hospital in Australia for the first time:

  • Parent pack provided by the hospital, including important paperwork for:
    • Your baby's birth and name registration
    • Medicare registration
    • Parental leave paperwork
    • Other government payments
  • Newborn car seat or baby capsule
  • Nappies and wipes
  • A nappy bag stocked with essentials


What to wear when going home from hospital after a baby

For the trip home, comfort is key for both mum and baby. Stretchy dresses, leggings, and button-up shirts work well for mums. For your baby, pack a onesie and socks, as well as a beanie and a blanket for extra warmth if needed.


The first night at home with a newborn

Your first night at home without the help of nurses and midwives can be exciting and challenging. It’s normal to feel a range of emotions during your baby’s first day home, so it’s important to take things slowly as you and your new baby learn along the way.

Here’s what to expect after bringing home your baby:

  • Feeding: Newborns need to feed 8-14 times or more over a 24-hour period1, including at night.

  • Sleeping: Newborns typically sleep in small 2-3 hour bursts2. They don't have a circadian rhythm, so their sleep is typically scattered throughout the day and night.
  • Adjusting: From that first night, you'll lerarn to recognise your baby's cues, adjusting your schedule to meet their needs.


What happens first week at home with a newborn?

During those first few days, you’ll start to get a feel for your newborn’s routine. The first week with your baby after coming home from hospital is filled with new experiences, from establishing a feeding routine to coping with sleepless nights.

Here’s a quick rundown on what to expect and tips on how to manage this time to help both you and your baby adjust:

  • Feeding: Your baby will continue to feed regularly. That said, it’s not uncommon for newborns to lose a bit of their birth weight  as they adjust to their new feeding routine, but they’ll typically regain it by the end of the first week3.
  • Changing: Be prepared to change your baby’s nappies regularly. Their nappies can be a good indicator of whether they’re feeding well4, so keep an eye on them. 
  • Sleeping: As your baby grows and develops, it’s likely that their sleep patterns will change too5, so don’t stress if you struggle to find a consistent sleep routine.

During the first few weeks try to prioritise rest and sleep as much as possible. Seek help from family and friends, but set boundaries with visitors if needed. Practice self-care by eating well, staying hydrated and getting fresh air and gently exercise if you’re up for it.


How long should you wait to leave the house with a newborn?

There's no set rule for when to leave the house with your baby. As long as your baby is healthy and feeding well, it's your choice. But remember, since their immune system is still developing, it's wise to avoid crowded places or large groups.


When should I let my newborn see visitors?

New parents often struggle to decide when and how to welcome a new born baby to their friends and family. It's up to you when you’d like to introduce your baby to friends and family, balancing socialising, your baby’s health and your recovery. Set boundaries with visitors about when to come, how long to stay and any rules on vaccinations, handwashing and kissing your bub.

For more help and guidance on welcoming a newborn and other topics like increasing breastmilk supply, take a look at the Biostime Parent’s Lounge.


References:

  1. Feeding patterns in the early months | Australian Breastfeeding Association [Internet]. www.breastfeeding.asn.au. Available from: https://www.breastfeeding.asn.au/resources/feeding-patterns
  2. Newborn sleep: what to expect [Internet]. Raising Children Network. Available from: https://raisingchildren.net.au/newborns/sleep/understanding-sleep/newborn-sleep
  3. What’s normal with weight gains? | Australian Breastfeeding Association [Internet]. www.breastfeeding.asn.au. Available from: https://www.breastfeeding.asn.au/resources/weight-gains
  4. Australia H. Poos and wees [Internet]. www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au. 2024. Available from: https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/poos-and-wees
  5. Baby sleep patterns by age [Internet]. Pregnancybirthbaby.org.au.2019. Available from: https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/sleep-patterns-for-babies

Biostime Nutrition - Author

Postpartum, Newborn (0-12 months)