As a neonatal nurse and baby coach with 26 years of experience, I have guided hundreds of parents in the first weeks after the birth of their baby. One of the most frequently asked questions I get is: what do I really need for my baby?

Many parents feel overwhelmed by the endless lists you find online. But a baby shower does not have to be complicated or unnecessarily expensive. In this blog I help you with a practical, no-nonsense baby shower list based on my knowledge and experience with newborns.

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What is a baby shower and why is it important?

The term “baby shower kit” refers to all of the items you need to care for your newborn. It includes a wide range of items, from clothing and diapers to furniture and feeding supplies. Putting together a baby shower kit is an essential part of preparing for the arrival of your little one. A well-put-together baby shower kit ensures that you have all of the necessary items on hand once your baby is born, helping to make the transition smoother and less stressful.

The reason why it is important to carefully plan a baby shower is that it helps you stay organized and prepared for your baby’s needs. A newborn has specific needs that are different from those of older children and adults. By planning ahead and purchasing the right supplies, you can better handle many of the challenges that come with parenting.

Furthermore, having a well-equipped baby shower can also bring you financial benefits. Knowing in advance what you really need can help you avoid impulsive purchases and manage your budget more efficiently. It also prevents you from spending money unnecessarily on items that you ultimately do not need. In short, a well-thought-out baby shower is essential for both the practical and financial aspects of parenthood.

💡 my advice as a baby coach: don't buy too much in advance. Every baby is different and some products seem useful, but are hardly used.

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How much does a complete baby shower cost?

The cost of a baby shower varies from family to family, but here are the average amounts:

basic equipment: €834 (clothing, care and nursery)
extensive set: €1,846 (including stroller, car seat and accessories)

🔹 costs per category:

• clothing: €178
• care: €213
• baby room: €443
• stroller: €520
• car seat: €115
• box + mattress: €109
• high chair: €120
• buggy: €100
• extra accessories: €882

💰 how do you save?
✔ choose sustainable materials such as merino wool, which last longer.
✔ buy second hand (especially large items such as a playpen or dresser).
✔ Ask friends and family for useful maternity gifts instead of toys.

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how much money do you need for a baby shower?

Many parents wonder how much they should save. This depends on your choices and whether you buy new or second-hand products:

💸 saving for a baby:

• minimum: €1,000 for basic necessities
• average: €2,000 if you also buy new furniture and a pram
• larger budget: €3,500+ if you opt for high-end brands

💡 my advice: the first months are all about safety, warmth and security . An expensive nursery or designer stroller won't make a difference for your baby, but skin-to-skin contact, regularity and rest will.

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the complete baby shower list

Below you will find an overview of everything you need for your baby, based on my experience as a neonatal nurse.

to sleep

✔ crib or cot with a firm, breathable mattress
✔ 2-3 fitted sheets
✔ 2-3 sleeping bags (safest option, blankets can be dangerous)
✔ merino wool hat for newborns (important for temperature regulation)
✔ baby monitor (preferably with sound, no unnecessary bells and whistles)
✔ hydrophilic diapers (also useful as a sheet or swaddle)

💡 my advice: the first few weeks your baby doesn't have a sleep pattern yet. Take into account lots of short naps and provide a quiet, low-stimulus environment.

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power supply

when breastfeeding:
✔ breast pump (only if you are going to express milk, not always necessary)
✔ nursing pads
✔ nursing pillow

when bottle feeding:
✔ 4-6 bottles (note: some babies refuse certain bottles)
✔ bottle warmer (optional)
✔ powdered milk container

💡 my advice: don't buy a stock of bottles or teats before you know what your baby likes. Every baby has a different sucking technique. The ideal bottle for every baby doesn't exist. So it can sometimes take some searching to find a bottle that your child drinks from well.

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to decorate

✔ 6-8 rompers (wrap-over models, easier to dress)
✔ 3-5 pairs of pants and sweaters
✔ 2-3 box suits
✔ slippers or socks
✔ warm hat for outside
✔ jacket or cardigan

💡 my advice: choose soft, breathable fabrics like organic cotton or merino wool . Avoid hard seams, labels and buttons on the back.

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change

✔ changing table or changing area
✔ 2-3 washable changing pad covers
✔ baby wipes (washable or biodegradable)
✔ diaper pail

💡 my advice: don't buy a stock of diapers in one size right away. Babies grow fast and some brands cause diaper rash.

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bath and care

✔ baby bath or tummy tub
✔ hydrophilic cloths (min. 8 pieces)
✔ baby brush
✔ nail scissors or file
✔ thermometer

💡 my advice: don’t bathe your baby too often – 2-3 times a week is enough. Bathing too often can dry out the skin.

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en route

✔ stroller with rain cover
✔ car seat (i-size approved)
✔ baby sling or ergonomic baby carrier

💡 my advice: a baby carrier can help with crying babies. It offers security and supports a natural posture. A baby likes to be with you anyway.

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How many rompers do you need for a baby shower?

Many parents wonder how many rompers they should buy.

• for a newborn baby (size 50-56): 6-8 rompers
• from size 62-68 : 5-6 rompers
• from size 74 and larger : 4-5 rompers

💡 my advice: don't buy too much in size 50, many babies grow out of this within a few weeks. If you do have a shortage, new clothes are easy to buy. Make sure you have well-fitting clothes. Clothes that are too big can make it harder for your baby to keep themselves warm.

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what do you not necessarily need?

Some products seem useful, but are rarely used:

❌ diaper waste bin with special cassettes (expensive refills!)
❌ shoes for newborns (babies don't walk yet)
❌ too many cuddly toys and toys (your baby hardly plays during the first few weeks)

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conclusion

A good baby shower doesn't have to be big or expensive. My advice as a baby coach is: focus on the basics, buy smart and don't be tempted by marketing tricks.

💬 What did you find indispensable in the baby shower? Share it in the comments!

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