By Pei Aui – Melbourne Newborn, Maternity, Family and Couples Photographer


Because preparing for baby should feel joyful—not overwhelming.

Welcoming a new baby into your world is one of the most beautiful chapters of life. But if you’re a first-time mum in Melbourne, the list of things to buy can feel endless. From prams to nappy rash cream, swaddles to sleep suits—it’s hard to know what’s truly essential and what will just collect dust in the nursery.

This guide is here to help you cut through the noise with a simplified, practical baby shopping list made just for Melbourne mums. Whether you’re preparing for a summer newborn or bundling up for a winter arrival, we’ve got you covered.

A serene portrait showing a newborn peacefully lying down on father's arm in soft lighting taken by Melbourne newborn photographer.

🍼 Baby Essentials: The Must-Haves

1. Nappies + Wipes

Start with a stash of newborn nappies (disposable or cloth—your choice!). Sensitive wipes are handy, but keep some cotton balls and warm water nearby for those early days when baby’s skin is extra delicate.

2. Onesies & Growsuits (6–10 pieces)

Opt for zip-up styles (life-saving during midnight changes!). Choose soft, breathable cotton and layer up in winter with merino wool or fleece.

3. Swaddles & Wraps

Muslin wraps for warmer months, stretchy swaddles or sleep sacks like Love to Dream or ErgoPouch for cooler nights. Trust us, you’ll want more than a few.

4. Pram + Car Seat

Melbourne mums love convertible prams with plenty of storage (think Bugaboo, UPPAbaby, or Redsbaby). A rear-facing car seat or capsule is legally required from birth—make sure it's professionally installed.

5. Bassinet or Cot

Depending on your space, a portable bassinet is a great first bed for baby. Look for one with breathable sides and a firm mattress.

6. Change Table or Dresser Setup

You’ll be changing nappies a lot. Make it comfy for your back with a proper height table, and keep nappy cream, wipes, and spare clothes within arm’s reach.


🛁 Feeding + Bathing

7. Breast Pump or Bottles

Even if you plan to breastfeed exclusively, having a manual or electric pump on hand can be a huge help. Add a few newborn-sized bottles, steriliser, and milk storage bags.

8. Nursing Pillow + Nipple Cream

A U-shaped pillow helps support baby while feeding, and nipple cream is a lifesaver during those first few weeks of adjustment.

9. Baby Bath + Gentle Wash

A simple baby tub or bath insert works well. Choose a mild, fragrance-free wash suitable for newborn skin (Aveeno, Mustela, or Gaia are Melbourne mum favourites).

10. Towels + Washcloths

Soft hooded towels and gentle washcloths are ideal. Aim for 2–3 towels and a handful of cloths you can wash on rotation.

Parents lean over smiling baby lying on white surface, captured in soft lighting taken by Melbourne newborn photographer.

🧸 Nice-to-Haves (But Totally Worth It)

11. White Noise Machine

Melbourne traffic, trams, barking dogs… a white noise machine can help soothe baby to sleep and drown out the world.

12. Baby Carrier or Wrap

Look into options like the Ergobaby, Baby Bjorn, or stretchy wraps. Perfect for hands-free snuggles and exploring Melbourne’s markets and cafes.

13. Baby Monitor

A video or audio monitor gives peace of mind when baby’s napping in another room—especially useful in larger homes or if you’re downstairs while baby sleeps.

14. Nappy Bag or Backpack

Pick one with compartments and easy-clean material. Bonus points for a style that doesn’t scream "diaper bag".

15. Thermometer + Nail Clippers

A digital thermometer and baby-safe clippers are small but important items to have ready.


🌦️ Melbourne Mum Musts (Seasonal Essentials)

Melbourne’s weather is famously unpredictable. These additions will keep baby comfy in every season:

  • Sunhat + Pram Shade for summer strolls
  • Wool beanie + Layers for winter babies
  • Rain cover for your pram
A close-up details of a sleeping baby on soft beige bedding taken by Pei A Photography, a Melbourne newborn photographer.
Peaceful baby sleeping on round white pillow wearing neutral clothing in minimalist setting taken by Melbourne newborn photographer Pei A
A baby in a beige outfit lies curled up on a soft white blanket while sleeping peacefully taken by Melbourne newborn photographer Pei A

📸 Bonus Tip: Book Your Newborn Photographer Early

You’ll never regret having professional photos of those squishy, sleepy early days. Newborn sessions are best scheduled within the first 2-3 weeks of birth—and many Melbourne photographers (like myself) take bookings months in advance. So once the baby shopping list is sorted, pop “book newborn photos” on your to-do list too.


💛 In the End…

No list will ever fully prepare you for the wild, tender magic of meeting your baby. But having the essentials ready—and not 17 types of dummies—makes a real difference.

And remember: every baby is different, every mum is different, and you’re doing an amazing job.


Looking for more support as a first-time mum in Melbourne?

Follow @peia.photography on Instagram for gentle newborn inspiration, motherhood stories, and local tips to help you feel less alone in this beautiful chaos.