Introduction
Between the idealized baby registry and the reality of the first few weeks at home, there is often a considerable gap. This guide lists what you really need, what you can avoid, and how to prioritize your purchases before your baby arrives.
1. The nursery
Essentials:
- A cot with suitable firm mattress (10-12 cm). No pillow, soft blanket, or bumper — risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
- A sleep sack (sleeveless, with arms free): the only bedding accessory permitted in the cot according to official recommendations.
- A baby monitor: video recommended for the first few weeks.
- A baby play mat: can be used from the first days for supervised tummy time, from birth to 3-4 years: Treelys baby play mat
To avoid or postpone:
- A freestanding changing table: a changing mat placed on a stable surface is just as safe.
- An electric bouncer: wait to see whether your baby needs one.
2. Bathing
Essentials:
- A suitable baby bathtub: foldable freestanding bathtub with integrated thermometer and drain hose. Buying guide: How to Choose a Baby Bathtub: Complete Comparison (Freestanding, Foldable, Classic) 2026 — Product page: foldable freestanding bathtub
- A bath thermometer (37°C required).
- Fragrance-free, superfat soap suitable for newborns.
- Soft cotton hooded towels (at least 2).
Avoid: bath rings and seats without constant supervision — they never replace an adult's hand.
3. Feeding
Breastfeeding: nursing pillow, washable nursing pads, electric breast pump if you plan to build a supply.
Bottle-feeding: at least 6 bottles, electric steam sterilizer, bottle warmer (the microwave is not recommended — risk of hot spots).
Important note — infant formula recalls in 2025-2026: since the end of 2025, batches of Guigoz, Nidal (Nestlé), and Blédina products have been subject to preventive recalls in France (traces of cereulide in ARA oil — source: Ministry of Agriculture, January 2026). Always check RappelConso.gouv.fr before each purchase.
4. Hygiene and diaper changing
A newborn is changed 8 to 12 times a day.
Essentials:
- Changing mat with raised edges (never leave your baby unattended on an elevated surface)
- Diapers suitable for your baby's birth weight
- Liniment or alcohol- and fragrance-free water wipes
- Nappy rash cream
- Cotton wool for washing the face
5. Getting around
- Stroller suitable from birth (fully reclined position — a seated position is not recommended before your baby can sit independently).
- Infant car seat / Group 0+ car seat: mandatory from the moment you leave the maternity hospital.
- Foldable play mat in your outing bag: Treelys baby play mat — also see: Outdoor Play Mat for Babies: Enjoying the Outdoors Safely
6. What you do NOT need
- An electric swing: wait to see whether your baby needs one.
- Shoes before walking: unnecessary and restrictive for foot development.
- Pacifier clips with cords longer than 22 cm: dangerous, risk of strangulation.
- Non-certified consumer breathing monitors that are not medical devices: they create more anxiety than they relieve.
Conclusion
The essentials are few: a safe sleep space, an ergonomic and certified bathing space: foldable freestanding bathtub, an organized changing area, and a quality baby play mat: Treelys baby play mat. Everything else can be adjusted over the weeks. Contact: contact us
