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We've tested hundreds of baby products. Here's the 15 newborn essentials we actually recommend.

From the prams and bedside cribs our testers loved to the smaller buys that made those exhausting early weeks easier, these are the newborn products that genuinely impressed us.

Published: October 1, 2026 at 3:09 PM

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Shopping for a newborn can feel utterly overwhelming. With hundreds of products marketed as “must-haves” for new parents, it’s easy to feel lost in an endless list of gadgets, gear and accessories. The reality, though, is that you don’t need everything you see on a baby shopping list, and some products are simply better than others at making those first weeks and months with your baby more manageable.

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At MadeForMums, we’ve tested hundreds of baby and parenting products through our editorial reviews, Awards programmes and brilliant network of real family testers. Every product in this guide has been physically tested by our team, parent testers or Awards home testers, and only those that stood out, scored highly and proved genuinely useful for newborns have made the cut.

This isn’t a checklist of everything you must buy. Instead, it’s a carefully curated edit of the newborn products that genuinely impressed us – the ones we’d confidently recommend to friends. Whether you’re expecting your first baby, shopping for a little one aged 0–3 months or looking for a meaningful gift, we hope this guide helps you cut through the noise and focus on what’s actually worth your money.

No parent needs everything on this list, but if you’re looking for products that have been properly put through their paces, you’re in the right place.

The 15 must-have newborn essentials

Why you can trust our recommendations MadeForMums has tested hundreds of baby and parenting products through expert editorial reviews, the MadeForMums Awards and our network of real family testers. Every product in this guide has been physically tested by our team, parent testers or Awards home testers. We’ve focused on products that scored highly, stood out during real-world use and proved genuinely useful for families with newborns.

The best newborn products we've tested

Bugaboo Fox 5, £1,115

2 pictures of Bugaboo Fox 5 on pavement and grass

Suitable from: Birth with carrycot

MadeForMums review rating: 4.6 out of 5

Award: Gold, MadeForMums Awards

Why we chose it: A premium all-terrain pram that stood out for its exceptionally smooth steering, roomy breathable carrycot and ability to handle everything from pavements and kerbs to muddy woodland walks.

It felt like the SUV of prams.

MadeForMums reviewer Alex

What we like

What to keep in mind

Journalist Alex Meyer tested the Bugaboo Fox 5 with her 8-week-old son and 2-year-old daughter, using it around her home town of Petersfield on pavements, uneven grass, wooden decking and muddy woodland walks. It scored particularly highly for manoeuvrability and durability, both receiving 5 out of 5 in our review.

For a relatively large all-terrain pram, Alex found the Fox 5 impressively nimble. The extra-large puncture-proof wheels and suspension helped it glide over pavements and roads, while it also coped confidently with mud, tree roots, stones and kerbs. Alex found it light to push even with a child on board and said lifting the front wheels to tackle kerbs was particularly easy.

The carrycot was another highlight for newborn use. Alex’s 8-week-old son slept happily in it on walks, and she found it notably spacious with a firm, supportive mattress. The aerated design and ventilation flap allow extra airflow, while small storage pouches at the foot end proved a useful touch. The carrycot was also easy to attach and remove from the chassis.

The Fox 5 is designed to offer a one-handed fold, although this was the feature Alex struggled with most. She found folding it with the carrycot attached difficult and couldn't consistently get the folded pushchair to self-stand. Folding with the toddler seat proved easier, and once collapsed it fitted comfortably in the family car boot.

There’s plenty of longevity too. The same frame is used for the carrycot and toddler seat, and Alex found switching between the two straightforward. Her tall 2-year-old still had plenty of growing room in the seat, which features an extendable footrest and canopy.

At £1,115, there’s no getting away from the fact that this is a premium purchase. However, its sturdy construction, comfortable carrycot and excellent performance across different terrain made it one of the standout prams we’ve tested for active families who want one pushchair to take them from the newborn stage into toddlerhood.

Available from: Very (£1,115)

SnuzPod 4 Bedside Crib, £179.99

snuzpod-bedside-crib_177618

Suitable from: Birth to approximately 6 months, maximum 9kg, or until baby can sit, kneel or pull themselves up

MadeForMums review rating: 4.2 out of 5

Award: Gold, MadeForMums Awards

Why we chose it: A sturdy, breathable 3-in-1 crib that makes night feeds and settling a newborn much easier while offering bedside, standalone and lift-off bassinet options.

My favourite thing about this product was how easy it was to pick up Frank for night feeds.

MadeForMums reviewer Natalie

What we like

What to keep in mind

Natalie Hardwick tested the SnuzPod 4 with her newborn son Frank when he was between 5 and 8 weeks old, using it for both night-time sleep and daytime naps in all three configurations. It scored particularly highly for comfort, with 4.8 out of 5, and ease of cleaning, with 4.5 out of 5.

The standout feature for Natalie was the bedside mode. Once securely strapped to the bed, the zip-down side made it easy to reach Frank for night feeds without getting fully out of bed. Having him so close also meant she could quickly settle little snuffles by reaching across and placing a reassuring hand on his tummy.

That close access could be particularly useful for parents recovering after birth. Natalie, who had previously had a c-section, found bedside mode noticeably easier than reaching over the higher sides when the SnuzPod was being used as a standalone crib.

Breathability is another major strength. The SnuzPod 4 combines mesh sides with its ComfortAir breathable liner, air vents and an updated mattress. Natalie found the mattress very firm and supportive when she tested it by pressing down firmly with her hand: it offered good resistance and immediately sprung back into shape.

a baby lying in the SnuzPod⁴ crib next to a bed

The crib can be set to seven different heights, designed to accommodate beds from 53cm to 73cm high. Straps are included for both standard framed beds and divans, and Natalie found the crib straightforward to attach securely once she had selected the correct height.

The main compromise is portability. Although the bassinet lifts away from the frame, Natalie found it so wide that moving it through doorways and carrying it upstairs was awkward, and she eventually stopped using that feature. The whole crib weighs 11.5kg and can’t be folded or collapsed for storage.

It also takes some time to assemble. There are around 30 parts and Natalie took approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to put it together. Choosing the correct height before assembly is important, as changing it later means dismantling parts of the frame.

For newborn sleep, though, the combination of a sturdy structure, firm mattress, breathable materials and genuinely useful bedside access makes the SnuzPod 4 a particularly reassuring option. Its three configurations also give parents more flexibility than a traditional Moses basket, even if the lift-off bassinet isn’t quite as portable as it sounds.

Available from: Amazon (£179.99)

Joie Sprint Signature Integrated ISOFIX Car Seat, £175

2 pictures of Joie Sprint Integrated ISOFIX car seat unboxed

Suitable from: Birth to approximately 12 months, 40–75cm, up to 13kg

MadeForMums review rating: 4.5 out of 5

Why we chose it: A lightweight infant car seat with built-in ISOFIX connectors that removes the need for a separate base and makes installation impressively quick and simple.

It was perfect thanks to its portability and quick one-click install.

MadeForMums parent tester Donna

What we like

What to keep in mind

Parent tester Donna Mackay-Smith tested the Joie Sprint with her 2-month-old baby during everyday journeys and on a family holiday abroad. The seat scored 5 out of 5 for installation, comfort, style and durability, with its built-in ISOFIX connectors proving the standout feature.

Unlike many infant carriers, the Sprint doesn’t need a separate ISOFIX base. Donna simply lined up the integrated connectors with the ISOFIX points in her car and pushed them into place until they clicked. Indicators on each bar turned green to confirm correct installation, and she found the whole process took just seconds.

That simple set-up also makes it particularly useful if your baby regularly travels in more than one car. Donna used the Sprint in a taxi on the way to the airport and then again in a hire car while travelling in Italy, and found being able to install it quickly without transporting a bulky base a real advantage.

Comfort was another strong point. Donna found the newborn support robust and liked the position it held her baby in, with their head remaining upright and supported even without an additional recline setting. Her baby also happily slept in the seat during longer holiday drives.

2 pictures of the Joie Sprint car seat installed in car

The Sprint meets R129 i-Size standards and includes Joie’s Tri-Protect headrest with three layers of impact protection. The three-point harness was easy to tighten and adjust once Donna had located the adjustment button, while padded straps and the one-piece newborn insert helped create a snug fit.

At 4.1kg, it’s also relatively light for moving in and out of the car. Donna found it noticeably easier to lift than her usual seat with a separate ISOFIX base, although carrying it for longer distances with her baby inside did become tiring.

The main compromise is longevity. The Sprint is designed to last from birth until around 12 months, so parents will need to move on to another car seat relatively quickly. Donna also missed the convenience of a rotating seat when lifting her baby in and out of the car.

For families prioritising portability and fuss-free installation, though, the built-in ISOFIX system makes the Joie Sprint a particularly practical first car seat. It’s especially useful if you switch cars regularly, use taxis or hire cars, or simply want to avoid buying and carrying a separate base.

Available from: Bundle Baby (£175)

Ergobaby Omni Breeze, £160.90

Reviewer wearing Ergobaby Omni Breeze baby carrier with baby

Suitable from: Newborns from 3.2kg and 50.8cm (20in), up to 20.4kg

MadeForMums review rating: 4.5 out of 5

Award: Gold, MadeForMums Awards

Why we chose it: An exceptionally comfortable, supportive carrier that combines an ergonomic fit with lightweight, breathable mesh and plenty of adjustability as your baby grows.

The carrier felt light and ‘barely there’ every time I wore it.

MadeForMums parent tester Claire

What we like

What to keep in mind

Parent tester Claire Muir tested the Ergobaby Omni Breeze with her 4-month-old twins, Pippa and Max, in northeast Scotland. Her husband Simon also wore the carrier, giving the family a chance to see how easily it could be adjusted between different adults. The Omni Breeze scored an overall 4.5 out of 5 in our review, including a full 5 out of 5 for comfort for the wearer.

Comfort is where this carrier really stood out. Claire found the padded waistband and lumbar support helped distribute her babies’ weight evenly rather than leaving pressure concentrated on her shoulders or back. Even after wearing the heavier of her twins for a longer period, she reported no lingering discomfort.

It impressed for baby comfort too. Both twins settled happily into the carrier on their first attempts, with Pippa falling asleep within around 5 minutes. Claire found it straightforward to position them in the recommended ‘M’ position and to follow the TICKS babywearing guidance.

The lightweight SoftFlex Mesh is designed to maximise airflow, which makes the Omni Breeze particularly appealing for warmer weather or parents who expect to wear their baby for longer stretches. There’s also a foldable padded headrest and a built-in hood that can provide shade, help create a darker space for naps or offer extra privacy when breastfeeding.

Reviewer wearing Ergobaby Omni Breeze baby carrier

The Omni Breeze is suitable from the newborn stage without requiring a separate infant insert, provided your baby meets the minimum weight and height requirements. As they grow, the carrier offers four positions: inward-facing from newborn, outward-facing from around 5 months, and hip or back carrying from around 6 months.

Adjusting the fit is straightforward too. Colour-coded markers and Velcro tabs help set the seat width according to your baby’s height, while backpack-style shoulder straps are easy to tighten and loosen. Claire and Simon also found switching the carrier between them quick and simple.

Claire used the Omni Breeze while doing household jobs, playing with her older child and going for walks, and found she could use both hands without feeling the need to support the baby constantly. She also praised the deep side pockets and detachable zipped pouch, which provide enough room for essentials such as a phone, keys or money.

The main stumbling block was the instructions. Although part of the carrier arrives already set up, Claire found the large folded instruction sheet confusing and preferred using Ergobaby’s official video alongside it. Once she had done that, she had the carrier adjusted in less than 5 minutes.

It isn’t a budget option, but its long usable lifespan helps make the price easier to justify. For parents planning to babywear regularly from the newborn months onwards, the combination of breathability, strong ergonomic support and excellent wearer comfort makes the Omni Breeze one of the most versatile carriers we’ve tested.

Available from: Amazon (£160.90)

MAM Anti-Colic Bottles, £24.99 for 3

mam-anti-colic-bottle-self-sterilising_83021

Suitable from: Birth with the slow-flow teat

MadeForMums review rating: 4.7 out of 5

Award: Silver, Best Baby Bottle, MadeForMums Awards

Why we chose it: A genuinely convenient anti-colic bottle that can be sterilised on its own in a microwave in just 3 minutes, without needing a separate steriliser.

I couldn’t believe that it would be that easy to use but it really was.

MadeForMums reviewer Sarah

What we like

What to keep in mind

MadeForMums reviewer Sarah Barker tested the MAM Anti-Colic Bottle while breastfeeding her son Oscar and was particularly impressed by how straightforward the self-sterilising system was. The bottle scored 4.7 out of 5 overall, including full marks for ease of use, cleaning, durability and value for money.

Its biggest selling point is that you don’t need a separate steriliser. To sterilise the bottle, you simply add cool water to the base using the measuring cap, arrange the bottle components on top and microwave them for 3 minutes. Sarah found the whole process genuinely quick and hassle-free, making it particularly useful for parents who want fewer pieces of feeding equipment to deal with.

The anti-colic design comes from the vented base, which is intended to help regulate pressure inside the bottle and reduce the amount of air swallowed during a feed. MAM says this can help reduce colic, although individual babies will respond differently.

Sarah’s breastfed baby Oscar took to the bottle well. She found the milk flowed evenly and he was able to feed without gagging or spluttering, despite not being accustomed to bottles.

The soft silicone teat is another useful feature, particularly for families combining breast and bottle feeding. Different teat flow rates are available as babies grow, starting with a slow-flow teat suitable from birth.

The main drawback is the bottle’s relatively chunky shape. The broad base is integral to the anti-colic and self-sterilising design, but it can make the bottle harder for little hands to grip compared with slimmer alternatives.

For newborn feeding, though, it’s the combination of anti-colic features and easy sterilising that makes the MAM bottle particularly useful. If you’re likely to travel, stay with family or simply want to avoid using a separate sterilising unit, being able to sterilise an individual bottle with just water and a microwave is a real advantage.

Available from: Amazon (£24.99 for 3)

Milton Maximum Protection Cold Water Steriliser, £21.99

Milton Professional Cold Water Steriliser

MadeForMums review rating: 4.5 out of 5

Why we chose it: A simple, inexpensive cold-water system that sterilises bottles and feeding equipment in 15 minutes and keeps them sterile in the solution for up to 24 hours.

The Milton Method promises to be simple and it certainly is.

MadeForMums reviewer Sarah

What we like

What to keep in mind

MadeForMums reviewer Sarah Barker gave the Milton Maximum Protection Cold Water Steriliser 4.5 out of 5, praising how straightforward, inexpensive and effective the system was.

Unlike electric or microwave sterilisers, the Milton system only needs cold water and either a Milton sterilising tablet or liquid. Fill the tub to the 5-litre marker, add the sterilising solution and submerge your bottles and feeding equipment using the tray provided. After 15 minutes, they’re ready to use.

One of its biggest advantages for newborn feeding is that equipment can remain submerged and sterile for up to 24 hours. That means you can prepare a batch of bottles and simply take one out when you need it, rather than running another sterilising cycle each time.

The large tub can hold up to 6 standard bottles, and because there are no fixed slots or compartments, it can also accommodate items such as dummies, breast pump components and toys. There’s even the option to use less water when you only have a few things to sterilise.

Sarah also liked that there are no electrical controls or microwave timings to deal with, making this an especially practical system for travelling, staying with family or anywhere you don’t have easy access to a plug socket or microwave.

The main downside is the distinctive chlorine smell produced by the sterilising solution. Sarah found it strong enough to linger on her hands after retrieving bottles from the tub and felt a pair of tongs would have been a useful inclusion.

Despite that, the Milton stood out for sheer practicality. It isn’t the most attractive or compact steriliser, but for parents who want an inexpensive, fuss-free way to keep a good quantity of newborn feeding equipment sterile throughout the day, it remains a very straightforward option.

Available from: Amazon (£21.99)

Elvie Breast Pump, £269

Elvie pump

MadeForMums review rating: 4.7 out of 5

Award: Gold, Best Wearable Electric/Battery Breast Pump, MadeForMums Awards

Why we chose it: A compact, wearable electric pump that sits inside your bra and lets you express discreetly without wires, tubes or being tied to one spot.

It was convenient and trouble-free. It was sleek and stylish and the pouring spout really ensures that none of that milk goes to waste.

MadeForMums parent tester Jenny

What we like

What to keep in mind

MadeForMums reviewer Becky Dickerson tested the Elvie Pump while expressing for her nearly 3-month-old baby Rex. The pump scored 4.7 out of 5 overall, including 4.8 for comfort and design and a full 5 out of 5 for ease of cleaning.

Its biggest advantage is freedom. The pump fits inside a nursing bra and has no external tubes or wires, so you’re not tethered to a chair or conventional electric pump while expressing. Becky found it compact and lightweight despite being able to hold up to 150ml of milk.

It’s also impressively discreet. Rather than the loud mechanical noise associated with many electric pumps, Becky found the Elvie produced only a subtle clicking sound. Parent tester Ausilia was able to wear it while visiting family without anyone realising she was pumping until she pointed it out.

The accompanying app is another standout feature. You can use it to turn the pump on and off, change the intensity and monitor the estimated amount of milk expressed without removing the pump from your bra. That can be particularly useful if you’re expressing at work or while getting on with other tasks.

The Elvie also automates part of the pumping process. It detects let-down and moves from stimulation into expression mode, and it can pause when it senses that the bottle is full. There are 10 suction settings, allowing you to find a comfortable level.

Elvie pump

Becky found the pump expressed a similar amount of milk to other electric pumps once she had got used to positioning it correctly. This did take a little trial and error: on a couple of occasions the suction didn’t seem right, so she had to take the pump apart, reassemble it and reposition it before it worked properly.

Cleaning is particularly straightforward. The pump breaks down into 6 pieces, with the electronic hub wiped clean and the other 5 parts suitable for the dishwasher. Becky found it easier to dismantle, wash and rebuild than other pumps she had used.

Other MadeForMums testers were similarly impressed. Jenny particularly liked being able to control the pump through the app and keep track of how much milk she had expressed, while Ausilia praised how quiet and discreet it was.

For someone expressing only occasionally, £269 is a lot to spend. But if you expect to pump regularly, return to work while expressing or simply want to be able to move around rather than sit beside a conventional pump, the Elvie’s convenience is what makes it stand out.

Available from: Boots (£269)

Shnuggle Squishy Changing Mat, £49.95

Shnuggle-Squishy-Changing-Mat

Size: 70 x 46 x 10cm

Machine washable: No

Award: Gold, Best Changing Mat, MadeForMums Toilet & Bathtime Awards

Why we chose it: A soft, warm-to-the-touch changing mat that feels more comfortable than a traditional plastic mat while remaining extremely easy to wipe clean.

An amazing mat that feels great quality and isn’t cold to the touch. My baby loved it and felt safe.

Parent tester Karen

What we like

What to keep in mind

The Shnuggle Squishy Changing Mat stood out to our testers because of how different it feels from a traditional plastic changing mat. Its soft surface stays relatively warm to the touch, which can help avoid that sudden cold shock when you undress your baby for a nappy change.

Parent tester Natasha also liked the practical design, saying, “Doesn’t stain, and slightly tilted at the top, so makes nappy changes easier, but baby doesn’t slide down or roll away.”

That gently shaped surface was a recurring positive in our 2026 Awards testing. Sami and her 5-month-old Autumn, and Louise and her 7-month-old son, both found the mat comfortable for their babies and straightforward to use.

Sami particularly praised its soft, warm-to-the-touch feel and easy wipe-clean surface, while Louise liked the gently raised shape for extra support and found the mat practical and simple to use from day one.

Although it costs considerably more than a basic changing mat, testers felt the materials and everyday practicality helped justify the higher price. It’s also designed to last beyond the earliest newborn weeks, with parent tester Karen commenting that she felt it could potentially remain useful for up to 2 years.

Those thoughtful details helped the Shnuggle Squishy Changing Mat win Gold for Best Changing Mat in the MadeForMums Toilet & Bathtime Awards 2026.

Available from: Natural Baby Shower

Finnsøn SIGRID Eco Changing Bag, £120

Finnsøn SIGRID Eco Changing Bag tester picture and product shot

Why we chose it: This sleek, unisex changing bag stands out for its premium feel, smart organisation and versatile design that doesn’t look overtly baby-focused.

This bag can be worn without knowing it’s a changing bag. It has a high-end look and feels really good quality, with plenty of pockets inside for both my things and baby’s things, plus mesh pockets so you can easily grab wipes or soothers when you need them.

Parent tester Charlene

What we like

What to keep in mind

The Finnsøn SIGRID is a strong option if you want a changing bag that doesn’t immediately announce itself as one. Its streamlined, unisex styling gives it more of the look of an everyday premium tote, which means it should be easier to keep using once the intensive nappy-changing stage is over.

Parent tester Charlene particularly liked the balance between style and practical storage. Inside, there’s plenty of room to separate parent and baby essentials, while the mesh pockets make frequently used items such as wipes and soothers quicker to find.

The interchangeable strap also gives you more flexibility depending on how you’re travelling. It can be carried on the shoulder or worn across the body, making it easier to adapt when you’re also juggling a baby, pushchair or car seat.

There are useful storage details on the outside too, including large pockets and a secure key loop. Together, they help prevent the main compartment becoming one big jumble of muslins, spare clothes, nappies and your own belongings.

The main consideration is the shape. Parents who strongly prefer the hands-free convenience of a backpack may find a tote less practical, and £120 puts it firmly towards the premium end of the changing-bag market.

But if you’re looking for something smart enough to use well beyond the baby years, while still offering the organisation needed for newborn outings, the SIGRID combines style and practicality particularly well.

Available from: Natural Baby Shower (£120)

Pampers Premium Protection New Baby

Pampers Premium Protection New Baby

Award: Gold, Best Nappies for Newborns, MadeForMums Toilet & Bathtime Awards

Why we chose it: Our testers were impressed by how effectively these nappies kept their newborns dry and comfortable, alongside thoughtful features designed to make changes and sizing easier.

What we like

Rachael and her 2-month-old baby Angus, and Olga and her 2-month-old baby Nick, were impressed by how well Pampers Premium Protection New Baby kept their newborns dry, comfortable and protected.

Rachael loved the fast absorbency and overnight leak protection, as well as the helpful waistband markings for sizing up, while Olga praised how dry it kept Nick’s skin and how the wetness indicator and easy tabs made changes simpler.

It’s these newborn-friendly features that made Pampers Premium Protection New Baby a Gold winner in Best Nappies for Newborns in the MadeForMums Toilet & Bathtime Awards 2026.

Available from: Amazon

Angelcare Soft Touch Baby Bath Support, £19

Angelcare Soft Touch Baby Bath Support product image and tester image

Suitable from: Birth to 6 months, up to 9kg

Dimensions: 23 x 34 x 56cm

Why we chose it: A soft, supportive bath seat designed specifically for younger babies, with an ergonomic shape that helps keep newborns comfortably positioned while leaving parents’ hands freer for washing.

I felt the product did support my baby well and as it is a soft touch it seemed to feel like it would be comfortable for him.

Parent tester Andrea, mum to 2-month-old George

What we like

What to keep in mind

The Angelcare Soft Touch Baby Bath Support is designed specifically with the newborn stage in mind. Its moulded shape supports a small baby while they lie back in the bath, helping parents keep their hands freer for washing and interacting with them.

The support is made from a soft TPE material that warms quickly towards the temperature of the bath water rather than feeling cold against bare skin. Parent tester Nildeniz particularly liked its non-slip surface and the support around the head, saying it “felt safe while using it in the shower/bath” and was very easy to clean, dry and store.

The curved design also helps keep babies centred on the support. Parent tester Aimee, who tested it with her 16-week-old, said, “It’s really soft and comfy, I love that she just lies on it but doesn't roll as the way it's curved keeps her in the middle of the seat.”

Aimee also liked that the open design allowed water to flow around her baby and drain away quickly afterwards, making the support straightforward to clean and dry between baths.

Parent tester Andrea used it with her 2-month-old son George and found the wider central section gave him plenty of room without leaving him sitting directly against hard plastic. She also found he was able to kick and splash comfortably while remaining well supported.

There’s a water level indicator built into the support to help guide parents on how far to fill the bath. As with any baby bath support, though, your baby still needs constant hands-on adult supervision throughout bath time.

The main limitation is its relatively short lifespan: it’s designed for babies from birth to around 6 months, with a maximum weight of 9kg. But during those early months, its combination of soft materials, good newborn support and easy cleaning makes it a particularly practical bath-time option.

Available from: Very (£19)

Munchkin White Hot® Safety Bath Duck, £4.25

Munchkin White Hot Safety Duck

Award: Gold, Best Bath Thermometer, MadeForMums Toilet & Bathtime Awards

Why we chose it: This clever bath duck combines an easy visual warning when bath water is too hot with a toy babies can enjoy at bath time.

What we like

Kayleigh and her 8-month-old Archer, and Kirsty and her 6-month-old baby, loved how the White Hot® Safety Bath Duck added both reassurance and fun to bath time.

Kayleigh liked the quick, easy way it showed when the water was too hot while also keeping Archer entertained, while Kirsty praised its sturdy, mould-free design and how simple it was to use again and again.

Those clever dual-purpose features helped the Munchkin White Hot® Safety Bath Duck take Gold in Best Bath Thermometer at the MadeForMums Toilet & Bathtime Awards 2026.

Available from: Amazon, £4.25

BabyBjörn Bouncer Bliss, £209.90

Gold- BABYBJÖRN Bouncer Bliss 3D Jersey (Without Logo)

Suitable from: Birth to 24 months; bouncer mode up to 9kg, chair mode up to 13kg

Type: Manual bouncer

Weight: 2.3kg

Machine washable cover: Yes

Why we chose it: A simple, beautifully designed bouncer that’s lightweight enough to move around easily and uses your baby’s own movements to create a gentle natural rocking motion.

My baby seems to love it. My son has Down’s Syndrome and low muscle tone, so struggles with head control; this bouncer really supports him and he can bounce it easily by kicking his legs.

Parent tester Claire

What we like

What to keep in mind

The BabyBjörn Bouncer Bliss is a good choice if you want something simple, portable and unobtrusive rather than a bouncer packed with lights, sounds or electronic features.

Parent tester Laura particularly liked its pared-back appearance, saying it “comes in neutral colours and is sleek and super stylish, so it feels like an elegant piece of furniture.” Compared with brighter, bulkier baby gear, its understated design makes it easier to leave out in a living room without feeling as though the space has been taken over by baby equipment.

At 2.3kg, it’s also very light. That makes it easy to carry from room to room depending on where you need your baby to be, or to pack for a trip away. There are no batteries or power cords to worry about either: the gentle bouncing motion is created by your baby’s own movements.

That simplicity does mean there are fewer features than you’ll find on some competing bouncers, and our testers felt the £209.90 price was high given the lack of extras such as a toy bar.

The longer lifespan helps offset that to some extent. Once your baby has outgrown bouncer mode at 9kg, the fabric can be turned around so the Bliss can continue to be used as a child’s chair up to 13kg, around 2 years.

Support was another positive in testing. Parent tester Claire found it particularly helpful for her son, who has Down’s Syndrome and low muscle tone, praising the way the bouncer supported him while still allowing him to create movement by kicking his legs.

If your priority is a light, good-looking bouncer that’s easy to move around and doesn’t rely on batteries or complicated settings, the BabyBjörn Bliss is a particularly polished option.

Available from: BabyBjörn (£209.90)

LeapFrog LF920HD 7-inch HD Video Baby Monitor, £119.99

2 pictures of LeapFrog LF920HD camera above baby's cot

MadeForMums review rating: 4.3 out of 5

Why we chose it: A feature-packed video monitor with an exceptionally large 7-inch screen, sharp picture quality and remote pan, tilt and zoom controls, all without needing Wi-Fi or a smartphone app.

Honestly, it is brilliant. During naps in the daytime you can see the baby in real colour which is great. And at night, the vision is also super clear.

MadeForMums parent tester Rachel Jackson

What we like

What to keep in mind

MadeForMums parent tester Rachel Jackson tested the LeapFrog LF920HD with her 8-month-old son for 2 weeks, using it for every daytime nap and overnight. It scored 4.3 out of 5 overall, with particularly strong marks for picture and sound quality, signal range and durability.

The first thing that stood out was the sheer size of the display. At 7 inches, the parent unit has one of the larger screens among dedicated baby monitors, and Rachel found the image quality exceptionally clear both during daytime naps and at night.

The camera is impressively flexible too. It can rotate through 360 degrees horizontally and tilt 80 degrees vertically, allowing parents to scan almost the entire room from the parent unit. The 8x zoom is particularly useful when you want a closer look at a small baby without disturbing them.

Rachel had previously used a BT video monitor and found the LeapFrog offered sharper picture quality, a stronger signal and a more accurate room-temperature reading. The temperature is displayed continuously and the monitor can alert you if the room moves outside limits you set.

Baby on LeapFrog LF920HD monitor

There are plenty of other useful functions, including sound and movement alerts, humidity monitoring, a built-in nightlight, lullabies and two-way talk. Rachel found the talk-back function simple to use, although she felt both the sound and movement detection could be overly sensitive.

Battery performance was another strength. Rachel kept the parent unit plugged in overnight and found it had enough charge to use downstairs for naps and again in the evening without needing extra top-ups during the day.

The biggest distinction is what it doesn’t do: there’s no Wi-Fi connection and no phone app. For parents who want to check the camera remotely from a smartphone, that will be a drawback. For others, particularly those who would rather keep their baby monitor separate from their home Wi-Fi network, it may be exactly the appeal.

Set-up itself took only seconds, although Rachel found the single-sheet instruction guide too basic and ended up learning some of the functions through trial and error. The parent unit also has an off-centre kickstand, which means it can topple over if it isn’t placed on a completely flat surface.

Overall, it’s the combination of the large screen, crisp picture and extensive pan, tilt and zoom controls that makes the LF920HD stand out. If you want a dedicated video monitor rather than a smart connected camera, it offers plenty of reassurance without requiring an app.

Available from: Currys (£119.99)

MORI Ribbed Clever Zip Sleepsuit, £32.50

Clever Zip Sleepsuit

Best for: Quicker, easier night-time changes

Award: Gold, Sleepsuits and Pyjamas, MadeForMums Awards

Why we chose it: A beautifully soft, breathable sleepsuit with a clever double zip that makes middle-of-the-night nappy changes much quicker and less fiddly.

The double zip makes changing so convenient and far faster. The material is super soft and gentle on my little one’s skin.

Parent tester Olivia

What we like

What to keep in mind

The MORI Ribbed Clever Zip Sleepsuit won Gold in the Sleepsuits and Pyjamas category at the MadeForMums Awards 2024, where products were judged on value for money, effectiveness, quality and design, comfort, fit and ease of washing and drying.

Its standout feature is the double zip. Anyone who has wrestled with rows of poppers during a 3am nappy change will immediately understand the appeal: the zip makes changes faster and more straightforward when both parent and baby are tired.

The fabric was another major positive in testing. Made from a blend of bamboo and organic cotton, it feels very soft against the skin while remaining lightweight and breathable.

Parent tester Chiamah particularly liked how comfortable it was for her son overnight, saying it was “lightweight and breathable” and worked well for a child who often became hot in other nightwear.

Parent tester Olivia, who tested it with her 10-month-old, also praised the soft material and the practical zip. She said the faster changes meant there was more time for playing and learning, while the fabric felt gentle against her child’s sensitive skin.

The main downside is price. At £32.50, it costs far more than a standard multipack of sleepsuits. But the combination of premium fabric, thoughtful design and genuinely useful double zip helped it stand out strongly in our Awards testing.

For the newborn stage, when you can be changing nappies around the clock, that extra convenience is exactly what makes the MORI Clever Zip Sleepsuit worth considering.

Available from: MORI (£32.50)

What do you actually need for a newborn?

You don’t need every product marketed at new parents, and no family needs everything on this list. What’s genuinely useful will depend on how you plan to feed, travel with, change, carry and settle your baby, as well as the space you have at home and your budget.

The easiest way to approach newborn shopping is to separate the things you’ll genuinely need from day one from the products that are designed to make everyday life a little easier.

Start with the basics

Before worrying about gadgets and accessories, focus on the essentials your baby will use straight away. That usually means somewhere suitable for your baby to sleep, a car seat if you’ll be travelling by car, nappies and changing supplies, a small selection of sleepsuits and clothing, and whatever feeding equipment suits how you plan to feed your baby.

You also don’t necessarily need large quantities of everything before your baby arrives. Newborns grow quickly, feeding plans can change and you may discover that your baby strongly prefers one bottle, carrier or sleep set-up over another. Starting with a manageable amount can save you from buying lots of equipment you ultimately don’t use.

Then think about what will make your own routine easier

This is where products such as baby carriers, bouncers, changing mats, breast pumps and bedside cribs can become particularly valuable. They aren’t all essentials for every family, but the right product can make a repetitive everyday job much quicker or more comfortable.

For example, a self-sterilising bottle might be particularly useful if you combination feed or travel regularly, while a wearable breast pump could be worth the investment for someone who plans to express frequently. A baby carrier might become indispensable if you have an older child to look after, enjoy walking or simply want your hands free around the house.

Similarly, something as simple as a warm-touch changing mat or a sleepsuit with an easy zip can become surprisingly useful when you’re doing multiple nappy changes throughout the day and night.

Think about your home and lifestyle too

Space matters. A large all-terrain pushchair may be brilliant if you have room to store it and regularly walk on rougher ground, but it may be less practical if you live in a small flat, use public transport frequently or have a compact car boot.

The same applies to nursery and feeding equipment. Before buying larger products, check dimensions and think about where you’ll actually use and store them. A bedside crib, bath support or steriliser that works brilliantly for one household may simply take up too much room in another.

It’s also worth thinking beyond the newborn stage. Some products on this list are designed specifically for the first few months, while others can continue to be useful well into toddlerhood. A higher price can sometimes be easier to justify if you know you’ll use something frequently or for a long time, but longevity isn’t automatically better if a simpler, cheaper product suits your immediate needs perfectly.

Do you need all 15 products on this list?

Definitely not. This guide is designed to help you choose within different areas of newborn life rather than suggest that every parent needs to buy everything featured.

For one family, a baby carrier might become an everyday essential; for another, a bedside crib, changing mat or cleverly designed sleepsuit could make the biggest difference. You may already own some of these products, borrow them from friends or family, buy them second-hand where appropriate, or decide you simply don’t need them.

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The point of this list isn’t to build a bigger shopping basket. It’s to help you cut through the huge number of newborn products available and focus on options that have genuinely impressed MadeForMums testers in real family life.

Authors

Ruairidh PritchardDigital Growth Lead

Ruairidh is the Digital Lead on MadeForMums. He works with a team of fantastically talented content creators and subject-matter experts on MadeForMums.

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