Basic necessities for newborns

According to Toys LiFung (Asia), operator of Toys 'R' Us, the basic needs of a newborn can be covered in six categories and includes bath and toilet training, feeding, health and safety, nursery, on the go, and toys and activity.

In addition to the essential nappies, bottle-fed babies will need feeding bottles. Toys LiFung recommends Bisphenol-A (BPA)-free feeding bottles, and that mothers who plan to breastfeed, bottle feed, or to give their baby a combination of both should choose a system that helps them move from one stage of feeding to another.

'A feeding system works together, so you can pump, store and feed using the same container, which can be a huge time-saver for new parents,' says Tracy Wong, sales and merchandising manager.

A baby monitor is an extra pair of ears or eyes for parents, Ms Wong says, and allows parents to keep tabs on a sleeping infant while they work around the house or even outdoors.

According to Toys LiFung, the crib is the first piece of nursery furniture usually purchased.

'Since much of the baby's time is going to be spent in the crib, make sure it's safe and comfortable,' Ms Wong recommends.