Maternity clothes and baby essentials: what is worth buying?

Baby-shopping lists often contain everything any family might ever use. Begin with what you will need during the first weeks, what you already own, and what can wait.

Comfortable clothes for you

Choose a few pieces that work together: comfortable waistbands, loose tops suited to the weather and easy-to-wear shoes. You may be able to use some clothes you already own. Toward birth, prepare loose clothes for the trip home, comfortable sleepwear and underwear. Front-opening clothes can help if you plan to breastfeed, but you do not need to buy a whole new wardrobe early.

Pack a simple birth bag

Include your records, regular medicines in their packages, a phone charger, toiletries, maternity pads and comfortable clothes. Pack a few weather-appropriate outfits and nappies for your baby. Ask your birth facility what it provides and what you must bring; lists vary by place.

Buy for the first weeks

Focus on washable clothes, nappies and suitable sleep and travel equipment that meets local safety standards. If you will drive home, check local car-seat requirements. Inspect borrowed or second-hand products and any recalls before use. Large quantities of one clothing size, tiny shoes and optional gadgets can wait until you know your needs.