Keep Calm and Follow This Rulebook Before You Bring Your Little One Home

ByTarin Hussain
Updated: 26 Sept 2025, 8:00 pm

Bringing your baby home is a milestone you’ll never forget, but those first days can feel like uncharted territory. What supplies do you really need? What should they wear? These are all normal questions for new parents. Having a simple guide to follow can make those early days feel a lot easier.

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Bringing your baby home for the first time is one of the biggest moments of your life. You’ve waited, prepared, and imagined what it will be like, and now the day is finally here. Along with all the excitement, it’s natural to feel a little nervous too. After all, you’re stepping into a brand-new chapter where everything feels fresh and unknown.
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That’s where having a simple rulebook can make things easier. It won’t magically take away the tough parts, but it will give you something to lean on when you’re not sure what to do next.

1. Get Your Baby’s First Immunisations Sorted

Before you head home from the hospital, there’s something really important to tick off your list: your baby’s first immunisations.
These shots are essential to protect your little one from serious illnesses:
  • Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) protection: In India, RSV peaks during the post-monsoon season and winter months. This virus can be dangerous for newborns, sometimes even leading to hospitalisation. Your baby can be protected through a shot given at birth.
  • Hepatitis B vaccine: Another key one is the hepatitis B shot. Your baby will usually get their first dose right there in the hospital. This helps guard against a virus that can damage the liver and cause serious problems later in life.

2. Dress Your Baby for the Journey Home

Choosing the right outfit for your baby’s trip home is about comfort and safety.

The weather will guide your choices, so plan ahead:
  • Cold weather: If it’s chilly, layer up your baby with an undershirt, diaper, pajamas, and a soft cap to keep them warm.
  • Warm weather: A single layer of clothing is enough in hotter climates. Go for light, breathable fabrics to keep your baby comfortable.

3. Set Up a Safe Sleep Space

Making sure your baby has a safe place to sleep is one of the most important things you can do. Before you leave the hospital, talk to the nurses about safe sleep practices.

This is what you need to focus on:
  • Sleep location: Keep your baby in your room, but not in your bed. A crib or bassinet right next to you is best. This lowers the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and makes those night feeds a lot easier.
  • Safe sleep surface: Make sure the sleep area is free of soft bedding, blankets, or toys that could pose a suffocation risk.
  • Swaddling: If you plan to swaddle, ask the hospital staff to show you the correct technique.

4. Schedule Your Baby’s First Check-Up

Don’t forget to set up your baby’s very first visit with the paediatrician before you leave the hospital:
  • Your baby will need a check-up within one to three days after you get home. The paediatrician will check their growth, check for jaundice, and review hospital screening test results.
  • They’ll also talk with you about feeding, development, and answer any questions that are on your mind. If your baby didn’t get their RSV or hepatitis B shots in the hospital, this is the time to ask about them.
Having these appointments lined up before you leave the hospital helps you stay organised during those busy first days.

5. Gather Essential Baby Gear

Having a few must-haves ready will make that first day much easier for you and your baby:
  • Feeding supplies: If you’re breastfeeding, a good nursing bra and a pillow can make things more comfortable. If you’re bottle-feeding, stock up on bottles, nipples, and formula (always check expiration dates). And no matter how you feed, burp cloths will save you from a lot of mess.
  • Diapering essentials: Have newborn and size 1 diapers ready. Include wipes and a rash cream to deal with diaper rashes.
  • Clothing and blankets: Be ready for plenty of outfit changes due to spit-ups or diaper leaks. Stock up on short- and long-sleeved onesies, nightgowns, one-piece sleepers with zippers, socks, and booties. You’ll also need receiving blankets and heavier blankets for cooler weather.
  • Bathing supplies: A plastic infant tub, baby washcloths, hooded towels, and baby-safe shampoo and lotion will keep bath time simple and safe.

6. Prepare Your Home for Your Baby

Getting your home ready is a big part of welcoming your baby.

These are a few simple things to take care of:
  • Baby-proofing: Secure heavy furniture, cover electrical outlets, and put away anything sharp or risky. Your newborn won’t be crawling yet, but it’s nice to get ahead before things get hectic.
  • Nursery setup: Set up a comfy crib, a changing table, and some storage for clothes and supplies. Keep the room clean and clutter-free so it’s safe. You can even pick a theme to make the space feel extra special!
  • Stock up on household items: Have cleaning supplies, toiletries, and groceries ready so you don’t need to run out in those exhausting early days.

7. Build Your Support System

Parenting isn’t always easy, and you don’t have to do it all on your own. So lean on your loved ones and connect with family, friends, or other parents for emotional and practical support. Don’t be shy about asking for help. Sometimes it’s as simple as having someone check in on you, or watching the baby for a bit so you can grab a shower and reset. If you’ve got older kids or pets, try to prepare them for the changes too. A little extra attention and routine can make the transition smoother for everyone at home.
You’ll feel more ready and confident when you bring your baby home by following this rulebook. Take it slow, ask for help when you need it, and trust yourself. You’re more ready than you think!
Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.

FAQs on Keep Calm and Follow This Rulebook Before You Bring Your Little One Home

  1. How do I know if my newborn is feeding enough?
    You can tell your newborn is feeding enough if they are gaining weight, have soft, yellow poops, and at least six wet diapers a day.
  2. When can I start tummy time for my newborn?
    You can start as soon as you’re home. Just keep sessions short and always supervise.
Disclaimer: Medically approved by Dr V Syamala Chelamkuri, Consultant - Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Hyderabad, Kompally