I spent three months before my son arrived buying things. Lots of things. I had a changing table with a built-in warmer, a wipe warmer, a nappy bin with a special refill system, a baby monitor with breathing sensors, and approximately 30 onesies in sizes she'd outgrow in six weeks.
Here's what I actually used: almost none of it.
Now that I'm on the other side — with a toddler and a much clearer head — I want to give you the checklist I wish someone had given me. Honest, practical, and specifically for Singapore parents.
✅ What You Actually Need
Clothing
- 6–8 bodysuits (short and long sleeve) — Newborns go through 2–3 a day minimum. In Singapore's heat, short sleeves are your daytime staple. Long sleeves for aircon nights.
- 4–6 sleepwear sets — Dedicated sleepwear helps signal bedtime as part of a routine. Look for breathable fabric — bamboo is ideal for our climate.
- 3–4 kimonos or wrap-style tops — Lifesaving in the first weeks when the umbilical cord stump is still healing. No need to pull anything over the head.
- 2–3 swaddles — Doubles as a light blanket, nursing cover, and pram shade. Muslin or bamboo swaddles are the most versatile.
- 2–3 wet bags — For soiled clothes when you're out. Reusable, washable, and far better than plastic bags.
Feeding
- Nursing pillow (if breastfeeding)
- Breast pump — check if your insurance or hospital covers this
- 4–6 bottles (even if breastfeeding — for expressed milk)
- Bottle brush and steriliser
- Nursing bras (at least 3)
Sleep
- Firm, flat mattress in a safe sleep space (cot or bedside bassinet)
- 2–3 fitted sheets
- Baby monitor — a basic audio one is genuinely sufficient
Bathing & Hygiene
- Baby bathtub with support insert
- Fragrance-free baby wash and shampoo
- Soft washcloths (at least 6)
- Nail file or soft nail scissors
- Nasal aspirator (the Frida NoseFrida is worth every cent)
On-the-Go
- Pram or stroller — test it in person before buying
- Infant car seat (mandatory if you drive)
- Baby carrier or wrap — incredibly useful for hands-free carrying
- Nappy bag with changing mat
❌ What's Overhyped (Save Your Money)
- Wipe warmer — In Singapore's heat, room temperature wipes are already warm. Unnecessary.
- Changing table — A changing mat on the floor or bed works just as well and is safer once they start rolling.
- Nappy bin with special refills — A regular bin with a lid and nappy bags does the same job at a fraction of the cost.
- Newborn shoes — They can't walk. They don't need shoes. Socks are enough, and even those come off constantly.
- Baby food processor — You won't need this for at least 6 months. Buy it when you actually need it.
- Elaborate nursery furniture sets — Babies don't care about aesthetics. You do. Prioritise function over form.
💡 Singapore-Specific Tips
Buy in smaller quantities first. Singapore has fast delivery — Shopee, Lazada, and local baby brands can get things to you within a day or two. You don't need to stockpile everything before baby arrives.
Prioritise breathable fabric for clothing. This cannot be overstated. Singapore's humidity means your baby will sweat. A lot. Bamboo viscose and quality muslin are your best friends.
Check what your hospital provides. Many Singapore hospitals (KKH, TMC, Mount Alvernia, Gleneagles) provide nappies, wipes, and basic toiletries during your stay. You don't need to pack as much as you think.
Join a local parent group. Facebook groups like "Singapore Mums" and "Singapore Parents" are goldmines for second-hand baby gear in excellent condition. Babies outgrow things so fast — buying second-hand for big-ticket items makes a lot of sense.
The Honest Truth
You will not get this perfectly right before baby arrives. Nobody does. The good news is that newborns need very little — warmth, milk, sleep, and you. Everything else is supplementary. Start with the essentials, see what your baby actually needs, and buy the rest as you go.
— A mum who learned that less is genuinely more.