My problem was that every list I read had a different list of things they considered essential. Or at least it seemed that way. I suggest you look at several different lists and compare them, and also consult with friends in similar situations to you, and your family, if that's possible. I'm finding my mum's advice really helpful, and also the advice of people who, like us, have to fit their baby and all the baby stuff into a small space.

FWIW, here is my personal current list of stuff we need to have before the baby arrives. But it will be different to yours and different in the details to most people's, no doubt. And I'm probably still missing some things that I'll think of later or rush out to buy at need.


Sleeping (going to use a "co-sleeping" cot that fits beside my side of the bed, for easy access at night).
- cot and bedding for it

Carrying
- pram
- wrap/sling/carrier
- car seat

Changing (planning to use disposable for a couple of weeks then washable nappies)
- couple of weeks, or a month worth of disposable nappies
- wipes and cream for nappy changing
- change mat (to go on top of washing machine)
- portable change mat
- nappy bucket
- nappy bag
- bags for dirty nappies
- cloth nappies to use after the first couple of weeks

Feeding (planing to breastfeed with occasional expressed bottle-feeds)
- breast pump, bought, $240
- 2 bottles
- 2 very slow flow nipples
- breast pads

Clothes & wraps (planning to buy just what the hospital says to take, expect some additional gifts, and buy more later on as baby grows - don't want to buy too much for a growing baby)
- 6 bunny rugs of varied thickness
- 6 jumpsuits or nighties
- 6 singlets
- 2 jumpers (winter baby)
- socks/booties to go with outfits that don't have feet
- hats
- 6 bibs
- small cloths to catch drool, vomit, etc.

Other
- baby bath
- baby thermometer
- baby nail scissors
- playmat, just because I think they are cool!