Whether you plan to breastfeed, bottle-feed, or combine both, having the right kit prepared in advance takes pressure off those first chaotic weeks. You will change roughly 10-12 nappies a day early on, so a well-organised setup saves your sanity.
Top Pick
MAM Easy Start Anti-Colic Set
~£25–£35 (starter set)
✓ Pros: Self-sterilising in microwave (3 minutes), anti-colic vented base, breast-compatible teat, great value, widely available
✗ Cons: More parts to wash than simpler bottles, teats can be fiddly to reassemble
Where to buy: Amazon, Boots, Superdrug
Hospital Grade
Medela Symphony (rental)
~£49/month rental
✓ Pros: Most powerful and effective pump available, NHS-trusted, two research-based programmes, rental means no large upfront cost, includes carry case and pump sets
✗ Cons: Rental only (not available to buy), not portable (stays at home), monthly cost adds up if used long-term
Where to buy: Medela UK rental, medela-rental.co.uk
Elvie Pump
~£249 (single) / ~£449 (double)
✓ Pros: Completely hands-free and wireless, virtually silent (Quiet Mark approved), fits inside any nursing bra, app-controlled with real-time tracking, only 5 parts to clean
✗ Cons: Premium price, smaller bottle capacity (150ml), can leak if you lean forward, less powerful suction than hospital-grade pumps
Where to buy: Elvie direct, Amazon, Boots, John Lewis
Tommee Tippee Twist and Click
~£30–£35 (unit + 6 refills)
✓ Pros: Excellent odour control, individually wraps each nappy, one-hand use
✗ Cons: Ongoing refill cost (~£6-8 per cassette), more plastic waste than a standard bin
Where to buy: Amazon, Boots, Argos
Lansinoh Storage Bags
~£10–£12 (pack of 50)
✓ Pros: Pre-sterilised, double-sealed, lie flat for freezer stacking, compatible with most pumps via adaptor
✗ Cons: Single-use (not reusable)
Where to buy: Amazon, Boots, Superdrug
What we'd tell a friend
Do not overbuy bottles before baby arrives, some babies are fussy about teats. Start with a small MAM set. If breastfeeding is straightforward, a manual pump is enough. If you are struggling, rent the Medela Symphony. Once established, the Elvie is life-changing for on-the-go pumping. For changing, a good mat and a caddy are all you truly need.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a breast pump?
Not everyone does. If breastfeeding is straightforward, a manual pump is enough to start. If you are struggling with supply or latch, a hospital-grade pump like the Medela Symphony can make a real difference.
Which feeding method is best?
There is no single best method. Breast, bottle, combination, or donor milk, however you feed your baby is the right way for your family, as long as baby is healthy and growing and the parent's mental health is not negatively affected.
How many nappies will I need?
Expect to change roughly 10-12 nappies per day in the early weeks. That is around 70-80 per week. The frequency gradually decreases as baby grows older.
© 2026 Nuhah. All rights reserved.