Less than you think
Shops and social media easily create the impression that a newborn needs a whole room full of equipment. The reality is simpler. The first weeks revolve around sleep, food, clean nappies, warm clothes and getting from place to place. Here is each category in turn.
Sleep
Your baby needs a safe place to sleep from day one. A crib or cot with a firm mattress that fits snugly is what matters most. The bed should be bare: no loose pillows, duvets or soft toys around a small baby. A fitted sheet and a light baby sleeping bag take the place of a duvet. Many families start with a crib in the parents' bedroom and move the baby to a cot at around six months.
Clothes
Newborns grow fast, and gifted outfits are often outgrown before their turn ever comes. Start with sizes 50 and 56 and keep quantities modest. A few bodysuits, sleepsuits, socks, a hat and a warm jumper or overall for outdoor time go a long way. Wool or a wool blend next to the skin works well in Icelandic weather.
Nappy changes and bathing
Nappies, washcloths or wipes and a changing mat are the daily tools. A dedicated changing table is convenient but far from necessary. A chest of drawers with a changing mat on top does the same job. For the first weeks you do not need a baby bath at all; a sink or a small tub works fine, along with mild soap and one towel.
Feeding
If the baby is breastfed you honestly need very little, mainly a few muslin cloths and a comfortable chair. If you are bottle feeding you need a few bottles, a brush to clean them and a way to sterilise. Dummies are a matter of taste and some babies refuse them entirely, so there is no point stockpiling in advance.
Getting around
A car seat is the only strictly mandatory item if you travel by car, including the trip home from the maternity ward. Choose an infant seat that meets the i-Size standard and read our guide to choosing a car seat. A pram, a baby carrier or both will handle the journeys on foot.
What can wait
A highchair, a playpen, developmental toys, shoes and bigger clothes can all wait until your child reaches that stage. It is also easier to choose well once you have got to know your baby and their habits.
New or used?
Clothes, cribs, cots and prams are often available second hand in excellent condition, and newborn clothes are frequently almost unworn. The car seat is the exception. Buy it new unless you know its full history.
On barnavorur.is you can find products for your baby from Icelandic online stores and compare prices in one place.