Welcoming a new baby is exciting but the shopping lists you will find online were mostly written for cold-climate countries. In Ghana you need a tighter, more practical kit. Here is the list our team and customers swear by – 10 essentials, plus 5 popular items that you can confidently skip until later.
The 10 essentials
1. Six to eight bodysuits (short-sleeve and long-sleeve mix)
Two to three of each per day, plus laundry. Buy size 0-3 months in cotton. The first weeks involve more outfit changes than you can imagine.
2. Four to five sleepsuits with feet
Footed sleepers eliminate the “where is the second sock?” problem. Get zip-front rather than buttons – changing in the dark with one hand becomes possible.
3. Two to three swaddle blankets
Swaddling helps newborns sleep longer in the early weeks. Muslin-style is best – light, breathable, and works year-round in Ghana.
4. A simple sleeping bag (size 0-6 months)
Once swaddling stops (around 8 weeks), sleeping bags are safer than blankets. They cannot ride up over the face. Look for a TOG rating of 1.0 or 2.5 depending on whether you use AC at night.
5. Twelve cloth nappies or one large pack of disposables
Newborns can use 10-12 nappies a day. If you are unsure between cloth and disposable, buy one small pack of each and see what works for your routine.
6. A baby bath, soap and two soft towels
A small plastic baby bath is much easier than a full bath for the first 3-4 months. Use unscented mild baby soap once every 2-3 days, not daily.
7. A car seat (if you drive)
For trips to the hospital and back. Even if you do not own a car, you will use taxis and Bolts. A car seat is non-negotiable for safety.
8. A baby carrier or wrap
Frees your hands and soothes a fussy baby. A soft fabric wrap is more comfortable than a structured carrier for newborns under 4kg.
9. A breast pump (if you breastfeed)
Even occasional pumping helps – for partner feeds, returning to work, or relief during engorgement. A simple manual pump is enough for most mums.
10. A nappy changing mat or wipeable surface
You will change 10+ nappies a day for months. A dedicated mat saves your bedding. A folded waterproof picnic mat works just as well as the fancy ones.
The 5 you can skip (at least for now)
1. Shoes for newborns
They look adorable. They serve no purpose. Babies do not need shoes until they walk – around 12 months. Save the money for the size you actually need.
2. A wardrobe of “going out” outfits
Resist buying matching three-piece sets in size 0-3 months. Newborns spend most of their time in bodysuits and sleepers. One or two cute outfits for visits is plenty.
3. A wipe warmer
Ghana’s room temperature is already perfect for wipes. Skip the gadget.
4. A baby food maker
You will not need this until 6 months at the earliest. A simple blender or potato masher does the same job. Wait and see how your baby takes to solids before investing.
5. A “newborn-only” sized cot
Buy a full-size cot or a cot that converts to a toddler bed. Newborn-only cots are outgrown in 3 months.
One last tip: shop in stages
Buy enough for the first 6 weeks, then buy again as you learn what your baby actually likes. Some babies hate sleepsuits and prefer two-piece sets. Some refuse swaddles. You will know within a fortnight what your baby’s preferences are.
Where to start
Browse our Baby Shop for everything on this list. Or message us via WhatsApp with your due date and we will put together a personalised starter set within your budget.