Quick answer: You do not need to buy everything before your baby arrives. The must-haves for most newborns are 2 to 4 small bottles with slow-flow nipples (if you will bottle feed or give expressed milk), a bottle brush, a way to sterilise, burp cloths and a few bibs. Add a breast pump, nursing items or formula supplies depending on how you plan to feed. Solids gear, such as a suction bowl and spoons, can wait until around 6 months.

Preparing for a baby means a long shopping list, and feeding products alone can feel overwhelming. Which bottles? How many? Do you really need a sterilizer? This checklist separates what you need from what can wait, and it covers the choices parents in India ask about most, from sterilizers and anti-colic bottles to travel gear and reusable options.

Your needs depend on whether you are breastfeeding, expressing milk, formula feeding or combining methods. Start small, see what works for your baby, then build your collection.

The Feeding Essentials at a Glance

Bottle Feeding Essentials

Bottles for Newborns

A bottle of about 120–150 ml is a practical starting size for newborns, because early feeds are small and a compact bottle is easier to hold. A larger 250 ml bottle becomes useful as feeds grow. Bottle size does not decide how much your baby should drink, so follow your baby's hunger cues. Read more in our guide on what size feeding bottle is best for a newborn.

How Many Bottles Do You Need?

There is no single number. As a starting point:

• Occasional bottle use (for example, expressed milk now and then): 2 bottles are usually enough.

• Frequent bottle or formula feeding: 4 to 6 bottles let you wash and sterilise in batches instead of cleaning during every feed.

Buy a small number first, see which bottle your baby accepts comfortably, and then add more.

Choosing the Right Nipple Flow

Bottle size and nipple flow are different things. Most newborns do well with a slow-flow nipple. Gulping, coughing or milk leaking from the mouth can mean the flow is too fast; frustration and very long feeds can mean it is too slow. Dodo Baby offers silicone bottle nipple extensions with slow-flow and fast-flow options for its silicone bottle range. See our guide on signs your baby may need a different bottle nipple flow for details.

Anti-Colic Bottles

No bottle has been proven to prevent colic, and colic has several causes. Some parents find a venting system helpful for managing airflow, alongside a slow-flow nipple, paced feeding, a semi-upright position and burping. Dodo Baby silicone feeding bottles feature a dual anti-colic vent design. If your baby cries for long periods or seems in pain, speak to your paediatrician.

Silicone or Glass?

Silicone bottles are soft, lightweight and easy to carry. Glass bottles are firm and easy to inspect, but heavier and breakable. Dodo Baby offers both. See our Glass vs Silicone Feeding Bottle Guide for a closer comparison.

What to Look For: Safety and Hygiene Features

Whatever you buy, check these points before purchasing:

• Clear material information: food-grade silicone, glass or BPA-free plastic, stated by the brand

• Free from BPA, PVC and phthalates, where the brand states it

• Easy to take apart and clean, with a wide neck and no hidden crevices

• Care instructions you can follow: dishwasher, steam steriliser or boiling-water safe, as the maker states

• Age and flow labelling that matches your baby

• Spare parts available, such as replacement nipples

• Clear measurement markings

• A seller you can contact if something goes wrong

Sterilising Equipment

Sterilizer Options

Benefits of an Electric Sterilizer

Electric sterilizers can save time and give a consistent routine, and some models include drying and keep items covered until needed. Their downsides are cost, counter space and the need to clean limescale, which can build up in areas with hard water. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions, and ask your paediatrician how long you should keep sterilising for your baby.

Daily Cleaning

Wash bottles and nipples after every feed with hot soapy water and a dedicated brush, rinse well, and air-dry on a clean rack. Replace anything cracked, torn or sticky. Sterilising matters most for young babies, premature babies and babies with weakened immunity. Dodo Baby's silicone care instructions note that its silicone products are dishwasher safe (top rack recommended), steam steriliser safe and microwave safe, and its glass products are dishwasher safe and safe for steam and cold-water sterilisers.

Formula Feeding Checklist

If you will formula feed, you will need:

• Infant formula recommended by your paediatrician or suited to your baby's age

• Safe water prepared as the tin directs

• The scoop provided, levelled off, not heaped

• Clean, sterilised bottles and nipples

• A clean, covered container for carrying measured powder when out

• A bottle brush and sterilising equipment

Choosing Formula and a Formula Brand

There is no single best formula. For most healthy babies, a standard infant formula suited to their age is appropriate.

1. Ask your paediatrician first, especially for premature babies or those with allergies or reflux.

2. Check the age stage and expiry date on the tin.

3. Buy from a trusted, authorised seller.

4. Avoid switching often, unless advised by your doctor.

5. Never dilute formula to stretch it, and never make it stronger.

Do not stock up on a large quantity before you know your baby accepts a formula.

Essentials for Breastfeeding Mothers

Breastfeeding itself needs very little equipment. Items that many mothers find useful include:

• Nursing bras and breast pads for comfort and leaks

• A nursing pillow or supportive cushion to ease back and arm strain

• Loose, front-opening clothes that make feeding easier

• A water bottle within reach during feeds

• A breast pump (manual or electric), if you will express milk

• Milk storage bags or containers, labelled with the date

• Contact details of a lactation consultant in case of latching or pain problems

Ask your doctor or lactation consultant before using any nipple creams.

Buying a Breast Pump

Choose between a manual pump (lower cost, quiet, good for occasional use) and an electric pump (faster, better for frequent pumping or returning to work). When buying:

• Buy from an authorised seller or a reputable retailer

• Check that spare parts are available

• Make sure the flange size can be matched to you; a poor fit causes pain

• Check warranty terms and how to reach customer support

• Ask your lactation consultant or doctor for advice

Wash all parts that touch milk after each use, as the maker instructs.

Burp Cloths, Bibs and Other Accessories

Burp Cloths

The best burp cloths for newborns are soft, absorbent and washable. Look for:

• Soft cotton or muslin that is gentle on skin

• Enough size to cover your shoulder and catch spit-up

• Fabric that stays soft after repeated washing

• No loose threads, rough trims or heavy dyes

• A quantity of 6 to 8, since you will wash them often

Bibs and Other Items

• Bibs: 3 to 4 soft, washable bibs for dribble and spit-up

• Nursing pillow: useful for comfort, but optional

• Bottle drying rack: keeps parts clean and off the counter

• Burp cloth or small towel for every changing and feeding spot

Items That Can Wait Until Solids

Most babies are ready for solids around 6 months, once they show signs of readiness such as sitting with little support and good head control. Until then, you do not need bowls or spoons. When the time comes, consider:

• A suction bowl that grips a smooth, flat tray

• Soft-edged baby spoons

• A high chair with a safe harness

• A cup for sipping

The Dodo Baby Silicone Suction Feeding Bowl has an anti-slip suction base and a curved spill-wall, is made from food-grade silicone and is free from BPA, PVC and phthalates. Read our guide on when babies should start using a suction bowl for readiness signs.

Travel Feeding Checklist

When you are out with an infant, pack:

• Clean, sterilised bottles with leak-proof lids or caps

• A spare nipple

• Measured formula in a clean, covered container, if formula feeding

• Safe water prepared as the formula tin directs, in a clean flask

• Expressed milk in a cooler bag, if you carry it

• A small bottle brush and baby-safe soap

• Sterilising bags or wipes suitable for baby items, if needed

• Burp cloths and bibs

• A bag for used items

Pack more than you expect to need, since delays and spills happen. Choose lightweight, durable bottles that are easy to clean on the go. Soft silicone bottles are popular for travel because they are light and easy to carry.

Reusable Feeding Products for Eco-Conscious Parents

Reusable products can cut waste over time if you use them for months or for more than one child. Popular options include:

• Silicone or glass bottles that can be sterilised and used repeatedly

• Stainless steel flasks for carrying water

• Cloth burp cloths and washable bibs

• Reusable silicone food storage

• Suction bowls and spoons made from durable materials

Be cautious with vague "eco-friendly" claims. Ask what a product is made from and how to care for or dispose of it, and prioritise safety and hygiene first.

How to Buy: Affordable, Trusted and Well-Supported

Where to Buy a Complete Feeding Kit

You can buy feeding essentials from brand websites, large online marketplaces and baby-care stores. Bundles and kits can cost less per piece, but check that everything in a bundle is something you will use. Dodo Baby bottles, nipples and feeding products are available at dodobaby.in.

Choosing Trusted Stores and Sellers

We cannot name a ranked list of stores, since quality and service vary. When you choose an online seller, check that:

• It is an authorised seller or the brand's own store

• Product pages list material, age and care information

• It has a clear return and refund policy

• Recent verified reviews mention delivery and product quality

• Invoices and customer support contact details are provided

Best-Rated Products and Top Brands

Ratings and "best" lists change often, and what works for one baby may not suit another. Compare brands on:

• Material and safety information

• Ease of cleaning

• Spare parts and compatibility

• Warranty and customer support

• Recent verified reviews on durability and leaking

• Price per item and per set

Warranty and Customer Support

Bottles and bowls rarely come with a formal warranty, but electrical items such as sterilizers, warmers and electric pumps usually do. Before you buy, check what the warranty covers, how long it lasts, how to claim it, and whether spare parts are available. Keep your invoice.

Subscription and Repeat Delivery

Some retailers offer repeat-delivery or subscribe-and-save options for items like formula, wipes or nipple replacements, but availability and terms vary by seller. Check the delivery schedule, how to pause or cancel, and the expiry date of what you receive.

Staying Within Budget

• Buy 2 bottles first instead of a full set

• Choose a simple pot-and-lid or microwave sterilising method before an electric sterilizer, if cost is a concern

• Avoid buying large quantities of formula or a single brand before your baby accepts it

• Skip items you will use only for a few weeks

• Choose durable products that can be used for more than one child

• Never buy secondhand nipples or pump parts that touch milk

Dodo Baby Feeding Range

Dodo Baby's feeding range includes:

• Silicone feeding bottles (including a 150ml kit and a 250ml bottle), with a dual anti-colic vent design and a wide neck for easy cleaning

• Glass feeding bottles

• Silicone bottle nipple extensions in slow-flow and fast-flow options

• Silicone Suction Feeding Bowl for first foods

• 3-in-1 Bottle Cleaning Brush for thorough cleaning

• Dino Soothe Teether for babies aged 3 months and above

Explore the range at dodobaby.in.

Final Thoughts

A good feeding setup does not need to be big or expensive. Start with a few well-chosen essentials, keep everything clean, follow your baby's cues, and add items as you learn what works for your family. You can explore Dodo Baby's feeding range at dodobaby.in.

About the Author

Written by Akrati Chaurasia, Founder of Dodo Baby. With 7+ years of experience in child development and EdTech education, Akrati is passionate about creating safe, thoughtfully designed baby products that make parenting easier. Dodo Baby is committed to premium, food-grade materials and honest guidance for modern parents.

Dodo Baby

Shop Dodo Baby's premium baby feeding products, including glass & silicone feeding bottles, feeding bowls, plates, spoons, sippy cups and more. Shop online in India.