The feeding aisle is full of products that promise to make life easier — but most new parents end up buying things they never use. We give you a clear, honest breakdown of the feeding products worth having from day one, the ones that are nice but not necessary, and the ones you can skip entirely. Save your money for the stuff that actually makes a difference.
Getting ready to feed your baby can feel overwhelming, especially when you see how many products are on offer. The good news is you don’t need every gadget from day one. Most families do well with a few thoughtful essentials, then add extra items over time as they figure out what works for their baby, their home and their budget.
This guide walks through the basics for bottle feeding, breastfeeding, starting solids and keeping everything clean, plus a simple checklist to help you decide what to buy now and what can wait.
1. Bottles & Teats
Baby bottles and teats (nipples) come in many shapes and sizes, but most families only need a small set to start with. The best choice is one that suits your baby, is simple to clean and fits easily into your routine.
How many bottles? Many parents start with 3–6 bottles, depending on how often they plan to bottle feed and how frequently they can wash and dry them. You can always add more later if you find you’re washing constantly.
Choosing bottle size
- Smaller bottles (around 120–150 ml) are usually enough for newborn feeds.
- Larger bottles (around 240–260 ml) can be useful as your baby grows and starts taking bigger feeds.
You don’t need a full set of every size. Many parents start with smaller bottles and add a few larger ones later.
Teat flow and shape
- Newborns usually start on a slow-flow teat to help them manage the milk and reduce gulping.
- As babies grow and feeds become quicker, you may move to a medium or faster flow, depending on your baby’s age and feeding style.
- Some babies do better with a narrower or wider teat shape, or a “breast-shaped” teat if they are both breast and bottle feeding.
You don’t have to decide everything upfront. It’s common to try a couple of teat styles or flow rates before you find the best match for your baby.
2. Breastfeeding Essentials
If you choose to breastfeed, you don’t need many products to get started, but a few simple items can make feeding more comfortable and practical.
- Breast pads: Reusable or disposable pads can help absorb leaks and protect your clothing, especially in the early weeks when milk supply is settling.
- Nursing bras and tops: Soft, supportive options that allow easy access can make feeds more comfortable at home and when you’re out.
- Nipple cream: A gentle, breastfeeding-safe cream may help soothe dry or tender nipples.
- Burp cloths or muslins: Handy for spills, spit-up and protecting your clothes during feeds.
- Comfortable feeding spot: A supportive chair, cushions or pillows can help you find a relaxed position for longer feeds.
Breast pumps
Not every breastfeeding parent needs a pump straight away. Some choose to express milk so another caregiver can offer a bottle, to build a small freezer supply or to manage particular feeding situations. Pumps range from simple hand pumps to more complex electric options, but it’s fine to wait and see what you actually need before investing in one.
3. Starting Solids
When your baby is ready to start solids, you still don’t need a kitchen full of special equipment. A few well-chosen pieces can make mealtimes easier and less messy.
- Baby bowls or plates: Look for sturdy options that are hard to tip and easy to clean. Suction bases can help keep them on the table or tray.
- Soft-tipped spoons: Small, gentle spoons are easier for little mouths and can help protect gums and new teeth.
- Bibs: Wipe-clean or silicone bibs with a pocket can catch spills. Some families also like soft fabric bibs for smaller messes.
- Cups: Simple open cups or trainer cups help babies practise drinking water with meals.
- Storage containers: A few small, food-safe containers can be useful for storing leftovers or packing snacks once your baby is older.
You can start with just a couple of bowls, a few spoons and a couple of bibs, then see what extra pieces might help based on your baby’s eating style.
4. High Chair
A high chair becomes important once your baby is sitting with support and joining you at the table for meals. The right chair helps your baby sit safely and comfortably while they explore new foods.
Key things to consider
- Safety: Look for a stable design with a secure harness to keep your baby from sliding or climbing out. A wide base can help prevent tipping.
- Stability and posture: A chair that allows your baby to sit upright, with support around their trunk, helps them focus on eating. Adjustable footrests can give little legs a solid base.
- Ease of cleaning: Smooth surfaces, removable trays and minimal crevices make it easier to wipe away food. Some families prefer chairs without fabric covers, while others like padded cushions they can remove and wash.
- Space and storage: Consider how much room you have around your table and whether a foldable chair or one that tucks under the table would be more practical.
You don’t need the fanciest high chair on the market. Focus on safety, comfort and how easily you can keep it clean day after day.
5. Cleaning & Sterilising
Keeping feeding equipment clean is an important part of caring for your baby. The best approach for your family depends on what you’re using (bottles, pump parts, teething toys, feeding utensils) and the guidance you receive from your local health professionals.
Everyday cleaning
- Dishwashing tools: A bottle brush, teat brush and mild detergent can help you clean inside bottles, teats and reusable cups.
- Drying area: A clean drying rack or dedicated space on your dish rack helps items air-dry thoroughly between uses.
Sterilising options you may come across
- Boiling: Some families use a clean pot of boiling water to sterilise bottles and teats for a set time.
- Microwave sterilisers: These usually use steam in the microwave to sterilise compatible equipment.
- Electric steam sterilisers: Countertop units that use steam cycles to sterilise items.
- Cold-water sterilising: Solutions or tablets used in a dedicated container for a set period.
You don’t need every type of steriliser. Many parents choose one approach that fits their space, budget and the equipment they use, and follow local guidance on how long to continue sterilising.
6. What You Can Skip (for Now)
The baby aisle is full of specialised gadgets and accessories. Some families love them, others find they rarely get used. You don’t have to buy everything upfront.
Many parents choose to wait on items like large sets of specialty bottles, multiple types of warmers, advanced food processors or organisers until they know what their baby enjoys and what genuinely makes life easier. Often, simple tools you already own in the kitchen can work well for mashing or preparing early foods.
Think of feeding products as something you can build slowly. Start with the basics, pay attention to what’s working and where you feel stuck, then look for specific items that solve those real problems.
Simple Feeding Essentials Checklist
Use this checklist as a gentle guide, not a shopping list you must complete. Tick off what feels right for your family and add items over time as you discover what you really use.
Newborn feeding
- 3–6 baby bottles
- Age-appropriate slow-flow teats
- Bottle brush and teat brush
- Burp cloths or muslins
- Breast pads (if breastfeeding)
- Nursing bras or easy-access tops
- Nipple cream (if you choose to use one)
- Preferred sterilising method and equipment
Starting solids
- 2–3 baby bowls or plates
- 2–4 soft-tipped baby spoons
- 2–4 easy-clean bibs
- High chair with secure harness
- Cups for practising water with meals
- A few small storage containers
- Cleaning cloths or wipes for high chair and floor
BubScout Tip: Every baby and family is different, and feeding routines can change over time. It’s usually more realistic to start with a small set of thoughtful essentials, see what fits your baby’s temperament and your daily rhythm, and then add new items only when they clearly make life easier.
