All the gear and no idea...

A phrase we often hear when talking about people taking up a new hobby or building project, i never thought it would apply to parenthood!

While there are sooo many things out there that you absolutely need and must have (according to the people selling you the items)... what is it that you really need in those early weeks? I spent hours asking myself the same question, there are so many lists to reference and read. Different brands and styles, all claiming to be the best and essential. Some may say we are spoiled for choice. For me, it was just confusion and chaos, additional decisions i didn't have the brain capacity to cope with. Although we shopped very savvy, there are still a few items we probably didn't need. So below is what i found most useful.

• Somewhere to sleep (Moses basket or next to me cot) - While the Moses basket is great for moving them around the house with you we found our little one had out grown it within 6 weeks. That beautiful cot in the nursery will have to wait a few months yet, at this stage they need the close comfort of the smaller space to sleep in.

• 10 sleep suits and 10 vests - it may seem excessive as all they do is sleep and feed but only takes a couple of leaky nappies and you are landed with a pile of washing and a naked baby!

• Socks and Hats - a couple of each just for those chilly days and to bring them home in.

• 3 blankets - you just need a wash and a wear for bed time and one for the pram.

• 3-4 packs of nappies - try different brands so you know which is best for your baby. Expensive brands are not always best. Have a look at my Nausea Over Nappies blog for my nappy low down.

• Wet wipes - these become your best friend, stock up!

• Nappy Bags - Any bag will do, but be sure to use them to avoid the stench seeping into every room in the house!

• Changing Mat - we got the Schnuggle Squishy. We loved that it was slightly sloped and so easy to clean down, no poop getting stuck in any seams. The slope is also a lifesaver when they decide to wee mid change and it all goes to the bottom of the mat.

• Coconut Oil - your babies skin will be so sensitive to the outside world it can dry quickly. Coconut oil is perfect for keeping them super soft and not greasy/sticky.

• Nappy Cream - although not needed for a couple of weeks, you may find it helps sooth if they get a little sore.

• Food - bottle or breast, both need a level of prep before you bring your baby home. If breastfeeding then make sure you have a good supply of nipple cream and breast pads. If bottle feeding, then you need formula and 4-6 bottles should see you through if you are washing them regularly.

• Steriliser - only needed if you are bottle feeding or using pacifiers/dummys. We got a UV one which is an absolute dream and found it on Facebook market place at a bargain price.

• 3-4 Pacifiers if you choose to use them (i did).

• Car seat and base - we got a swivel base and it has made life so much easier getting in and out of the car. Another Facebook market place bargain!

• Pram - shop around, find a baby store and test drive all of them. Once you know what you want.... buy second hand! There are some amazing second hand prams in excellent condition for less than half the price of a new one.

• Baby Monitor - we got the Tommee Tippee Dreamee and love it! i waited for Amazons black Friday and bought it in the sale. The extra piece of mind having a sensor pad and camera is worth every penny. Although, my friend has never had a monitor for her little one and has been just fine also.

This list is not exhaustive and really only covers the basics of what you need to bring your baby home for the first few weeks. Its a great starting point and gives you chance to buy things as you need them rather than starting with everything and feeling it was a waste. I strongly suggest shopping around, pre-loved items will save you an absolute fortune. Some of my best items have come from Facebook and Vinted. Remember, your baby really just needs you, food and sleep in these first few weeks. Enjoy the cuddles, get stocked up on vests and nappies and leave the washing pile for later.