Baby Essentials Shopping Guide: What to Buy & Prepare Before Birth in Japan

May 31, 2026 Maternity Prep Navigator Editorial ~12 min read

Preparing for a baby in Japan as a foreign parent comes with a unique set of questions: What is different here compared to back home? Where do you buy things? Do Japanese sizing conventions match what you are used to? What can wait until after the birth — and what genuinely needs to be ready in advance? This guide walks through the key categories of baby essentials, with a focus on the details that matter most to international families in Japan.

1. How Japan's Baby Products Differ From What You May Know

If you have shopped for baby gear in another country, a few differences in Japan are worth knowing before you start:

Sizing is based on centimeters and months, not numeric sizes

Japanese baby clothing uses centimeters (cm) for height as the primary size label, often combined with a recommended age range in months. For example, "50–60 cm (0–3 months)" or "70 cm (6 months)" is typical labeling. This differs from numeric size systems used in some Western countries (such as 0–3M, 3–6M, newborn, etc.), but the cm-based system is quite practical once you know your baby's length. Sizes start at 50 cm for newborns. Note that actual fit depends on your baby's individual proportions, not just the size label.

Diaper sizing follows a weight range, but brand sizing varies

Japanese disposable diapers (kami omutsu — 紙おむつ) come in size steps — Newborn (S), SSS or NB, S, M, L, XL, XXL, and so on — each corresponding to a weight range. However, the exact weight ranges differ between brands, so the "M size" of one brand may not fit the same way as the "M size" of another. Japanese diapers are generally well regarded for their absorbency and softness. Popular brands found in Japan include both domestic and international options; trying several small packs before committing to a large quantity is a sensible approach.

Electrical voltage and plug format

Japan operates on 100V / 50–60 Hz, with Type A (two flat-pin) plugs. Baby gear that uses electricity — bottle sterilizers, baby monitors, electric breast pumps, bottle warmers — must be compatible with 100V. Items brought from countries operating on 220–240V will require a voltage converter, not just a plug adapter. Check the voltage specifications on any electrical baby item before using it in Japan.

Seasons matter — Japan has four distinct seasons

Japan has hot, humid summers and cold winters (in most regions), with significant regional variation. Building a baby wardrobe means thinking in layers and seasons. Newborns in particular are sensitive to temperature, and Japanese baby clothing is designed with this in mind — you will find seasonal ranges clearly distinguished in stores. Plan your initial clothing purchases around your baby's expected birth season.

2. When to Buy: Before Birth vs. After

A common mistake for first-time parents is buying everything before the birth and ending up with items that are never used, the wrong size, or not suited to the baby's actual temperament and needs. A practical approach for shopping in Japan:

Buy before birth (have ready at home on Day 1)

• A car seat suitable for newborns (チャイルドシート) — legally required for all children under 6 years of age under Japan's Road Traffic Act; you will need one to transport your newborn home from the hospital
• A sleep space: baby cot / crib or futon bedding set
• A small supply of newborn diapers (the hospital will usually provide diapers during your stay, but you will need some at home immediately after discharge)
• Basic newborn clothing: 3–5 bodysuits in newborn/50cm size
• Bath tub for newborns (ベビーバス) and gentle baby soap or bathing product
• Nursing or feeding supplies (breast pump, nursing pads, or formula and bottles if planning to bottle-feed)
• A stroller or baby carrier — at least one means of transport
• Going-home outfit for the hospital discharge day

Can wait until after the birth (buy based on your baby's actual needs)

• Large quantities of diapers in a specific size — your baby's size will change rapidly; buying in bulk before birth can mean ending up with the wrong size
• Bottle types and teats — if breastfeeding, you may not need bottles at all; if you do, your baby's preference may determine which type works
• Baby swing, bouncer, or rocker — some babies love them; others are indifferent; try before buying in quantity if possible
• Larger clothing sizes — babies grow quickly and the sizes needed will depend on your baby's actual growth
• Weaning and solid food equipment — not needed for several months after birth; see our guide on Baby's First Foods in Japan for timing and Japan-specific details
• Play gym, educational toys, and other developmental items — most are not needed in the newborn period

3. Where to Shop in Japan

Baby specialty stores

Japan has dedicated baby and maternity specialty retailers with wide product ranges — clothing, gear, furniture, feeding supplies, and maternity wear all in one place. Staff at these stores can often help with fitting questions (car seats, carriers, nursing bras) and are accustomed to supporting expecting parents. Most large stores have an English-language leaflet or staff member who can help with basic questions, though this varies by location.

General supermarkets and drugstores

Larger supermarkets and Japanese drugstores carry everyday baby essentials: diapers, wipes, formula, baby wash, and basic clothing. Prices at drugstores are often competitive, and point card programs can offer additional savings over time.

Online shopping

Major Japanese online shopping platforms carry an extensive range of baby products, often with English-language interfaces. This can be particularly useful for comparing products and reading reviews. Same-day or next-day delivery to most urban areas makes online shopping a practical option even for last-minute purchases. For items like heavy boxes of diapers or formula, online delivery is often more convenient than carrying them home.

Flea-market apps and second-hand

Japan has active second-hand marketplaces — both apps and physical stores — where baby gear in good condition can be found at significantly reduced prices. Clothing, toys, and larger items such as strollers and bouncers are commonly available. For items involving safety (car seats, in particular), using second-hand carries additional considerations: it may be difficult to verify the full history of a car seat, whether it has been in a collision, or whether it meets current safety standards. This is a point worth researching carefully before purchasing a used car seat.

Municipal and community support

Some local governments and community organizations in Japan offer baby gear lending programs or low-cost acquisition schemes for residents. Details vary by municipality. Your local kosodate shien sentaa (子育て支援センター — child-rearing support center) or city hall's kodomoka (子ども課 — children's affairs division) is a good first point of contact for information about local support available to you.

4. Checklist: Feeding (Nursing & Formula)

Breastfeeding

• Nursing bras (2–3): Wire-free, front-opening or clip-down styles. Sizing may change from late pregnancy to postpartum; many parents find it helpful to buy one or two late in pregnancy and add more after birth.
• Nursing pads: Disposable or reusable washable pads to absorb leaking breast milk. Your hospital's birth kit (osan setto — お産セット) may include some; plan to supplement.
• Breast pump (optional): Manual or electric. Whether you need one, and what type, depends on your feeding plans and situation. Electric breast pumps must be compatible with Japan's 100V supply if brought from abroad.
• Nipple cream / lanolin cream: For sore nipples in the early breastfeeding period. Check the product label for ingredients if you have sensitivities; do not rely on any product claim of medicinal effect, as regulations apply.
• Nursing pillow (optional): Can help position the baby comfortably during feeds. Not essential, but many parents find one useful.

Formula feeding

• Formula (powder or liquid): Japanese formula products are available at drugstores, supermarkets, and online. Formula is regulated as a food product in Japan; follow the preparation instructions on the packaging carefully.
• Bottles and teats (2–3 sets): Wide-neck bottles are commonly used in Japan. Teat flow rate matters — newborns typically need a slow-flow teat. Trying more than one brand/type before buying in large quantities is often helpful.
• Bottle brush and drying rack
• Sterilizer (optional): Microwave sterilizing bags are a space-saving option. Electric sterilizers must be compatible with 100V.
• Formula dispenser or portable flask: For making up feeds when out.

5. Checklist: Diapering & Changing

• Disposable diapers (kami omutsu — 紙おむつ): Start with a small pack of newborn/S-size from one or two brands; your baby's fit preferences will guide future purchases. Japanese diaper brands tend to have frequent point-card campaigns at drugstores.
• Baby wipes (oshirifuki — おしりふき): Unscented, alcohol-free wipes for sensitive newborn skin. Thicker wipes are generally preferred over thin ones for diaper changes.
• Changing mat: A waterproof padded mat for diaper changes at home. Portable travel versions are also available.
• Diaper disposal bin (optional): Odor-sealing bins are available at baby stores and online; useful but not essential if you are diligent about taking out waste frequently.
• Cloth diapers (nuno omutsu — 布おむつ) (optional): If you plan to use cloth diapers, dedicated covers and inserts are available in Japan. This is a lifestyle choice; neither cloth nor disposable is inherently superior.

6. Checklist: Bathing & Skincare

In Japan, the practice of washing a baby in a small dedicated baby bath (mokuyoku — 沐浴) separately from adults is common, particularly in the newborn period before the umbilical cord stump falls off. Your hospital or midwife will demonstrate bathing technique during your stay.

• Baby bath tub: A small plastic tub designed for newborn bathing. Foldable versions save storage space. Note: baby baths are bulky and relatively inexpensive; this is one item often available second-hand in good condition.
• Baby soap / body wash: Choose a gentle, fragrance-free or low-irritant product intended for baby skin. Japanese baby toiletry brands offer products specifically formulated for newborn skin. Check ingredient lists if your baby has a family history of skin sensitivities.
• Baby shampoo (optional for newborns): Many all-in-one baby body washes can also be used on hair. A separate shampoo is not essential in early infancy.
• Bath thermometer (some also double as a room or body thermometer): To check water temperature before placing your baby in the bath. Recommended bath temperature for newborns is typically around 38–40 degrees Celsius, but follow your hospital or midwife's guidance.
• Soft towels or hooded baby towels: 2–3 soft, absorbent towels for after the bath.
• Baby moisturizer / lotion: Newborn skin can become dry, particularly in Japan's lower-humidity winters. A fragrance-free baby lotion can be used on dry areas. As with any skincare product, use as directed; do not rely on any claim of medicinal benefit.
• Baby nail scissors or clippers: Baby nails grow quickly. Scissors or clippers designed for infant nails are safer to use than adult versions.
• Baby thermometer (taionkei — 体温計): A digital thermometer is useful from day one. Axillary (under the arm) thermometers are most commonly used for babies in Japan. As with any health-monitoring product, use as directed; the thermometer indicates temperature only — if you have concerns about your baby's health, contact your pediatrician or midwife.

7. Checklist: Sleep & Bedding

Japanese parenting culture has traditionally used floor-level futon bedding for babies, though Western-style cots and cribs are also widely available and commonly used. The choice between a cot and a futon-style sleep space depends on your lifestyle and available floor space. See our guide on Housing in Japan with a Baby for more on setting up a baby-friendly living space.

Cot / crib (ベビーベッド)

• Cot or crib frame: Standard Japanese baby cots tend to be slightly smaller than European standard sizes; confirm mattress compatibility if purchasing a mattress separately.
• Fitted cot sheet (2–3 sets): Fitted sheets in a size matched to your mattress. Wash before first use.
• Mattress protector: Waterproof cover for the cot mattress.

Futon-style floor bedding

• Baby futon set: Sets including a thin mattress (shikibuton), a coverlet or duvet (kakebuton), and pillowcase are widely sold in Japan as baby bedding sets. They are designed to be laid directly on the floor or on a low bed frame.
• Fitted sheet and mattress cover

General sleep items

• Baby sleeping bag / swaddle blanket: Swaddling cloths (okurumi — おくるみ) are popular in Japan for newborns. Baby sleeping bags are also available for older infants.
• Room thermometer / hygrometer: To monitor the temperature and humidity of the baby's room. Japan's climate can be humid; a comfortable range for a baby's room is generally cited as around 20–26 degrees Celsius with moderate humidity, though follow guidance from your pediatrician.

8. Checklist: Transport (Car Seat, Stroller, Baby Carrier)

Car seat (チャイルドシート)

Children under 6 years of age are required by Japan's Road Traffic Act (douro koutsuu hou — 道路交通法) to use a child restraint system suitable for the child's age, weight and height when traveling in a vehicle. This is a legal obligation, not just a recommendation. For newborns, an infant car seat or a convertible seat in rear-facing mode is required. Installing and using a car seat correctly is essential for safety; refer to the manufacturer's instructions and, if in doubt, contact your local car dealer or a professional fitting service (Japan Automobile Federation and other organizations sometimes offer fitting check events). Key points:

• Purchase or rent a car seat rated for your baby's weight and height, and appropriate for rear-facing use for newborns.
• Check that the seat is compatible with your vehicle's seat belt or ISOFIX anchor points.
• If purchasing second-hand, be aware that a car seat that has been in a collision should not be reused; its structural integrity may not be visible externally.

Stroller (ベビーカー)

Japan's compact urban environments, train station stairs, and narrow shop aisles present practical considerations for stroller choice. Lightweight, foldable strollers that can be carried up stairs or managed on crowded trains are popular. A full-size stroller from abroad may be heavier or bulkier than is practical for everyday use in a Japanese city. Points to consider:

• Weight and fold dimensions (for train travel, elevators, and compact storage at home)
• Whether you will primarily use trains, buses, or a car — this affects the practical requirements
• Japanese standard (SG kijun) certification is a quality and safety indicator for strollers sold in Japan
• Some parents manage well with only a carrier in the newborn period, adding a stroller later; others prefer a stroller from day one

Baby carrier / wrap (dakkohimo — 抱っこ紐)

Baby carriers are widely used in Japan and a wide variety of structured carriers and wrap slings is available. For newborns, ensure the carrier is suitable for newborn use (head and neck support, correct seat position). Points to consider:

• Try before you buy if possible — fit and comfort vary significantly between carrier types
• Some baby specialty stores offer in-store fitting consultations
• Japan's hot, humid summers can make carrying less comfortable; lightweight mesh-panel versions designed for summer use are available

9. Checklist: Clothing & Sizing in Japan

How much to buy before birth

A minimal approach is usually wiser than buying a full wardrobe before the birth. Babies grow quickly — many parents find that their newborn outgrows the smallest sizes within weeks. The most practical approach is to start with a small set of essentials in the newborn/50cm range and add as needed.

Newborn clothing essentials (birth to approximately 3 months)

• Short-sleeved bodysuits / inner vests (hadagi — 肌着) (3–5): The layer closest to the baby's skin. Japanese baby innerwear tends to be soft cotton, often with snap fastenings at the bottom for easy diaper changes. Look for sizes 50–60 cm.
• Sleepers / all-in-one suits (3–5): For daily wear. Snap or zip fastenings up the front are easiest to use.
• Scratch mittens (optional): Baby nails can be sharp; some parents use mittens in the early weeks.
• Hat: For outdoors in colder months; not typically worn indoors.
• Going-home outfit: Something comfortable and season-appropriate for the day you leave the hospital.

Notes on sizing and layering

In Japan, a common approach for dressing newborns is layering: a hadagi (inner bodysuit) next to the skin, with an outer garment on top. The number of layers is adjusted for temperature. As a general rule, babies need roughly the same number of layers as an adult plus one extra — but individual babies vary, and your hospital or midwife can advise on what is appropriate for the season.

10. Checklist: Maternity & Postpartum Items for Mom

This section covers items for the mother during pregnancy and the postpartum period at home — separate from the hospital-specific items covered in the Hospital Bag guide.

Late pregnancy

• Maternity clothing: Comfortable, stretchy clothing for the third trimester. Maternity wear brands in Japan offer both practical and stylish options; sizing is based on standard Japanese sizes with a maternity fit allowance.
• Maternity support belt / belly band: For lower back support in later pregnancy. Available at maternity stores and online; fit and support level vary between products.
• Comfortable footwear: Feet can swell in late pregnancy; having low-heeled, easy-to-put-on footwear available is practical.

Postpartum at home

• Postpartum maternity pads: Heavy-flow pads for lochia (oro — 悪露, postpartum discharge) in the weeks after birth. Available at drugstores and baby stores in Japan.
• Nipple care products: For breastfeeding mothers experiencing soreness.
• Postpartum support garments (optional): Belly binders or supportive underwear for postpartum recovery. These are optional and individual preference varies.
• Easy-access nursing clothing: Tops and dresses designed for breastfeeding, with discreet opening or panel. Japan has a wide range of nursing-friendly clothing available.
• Comfortable, easy-to-wash home clothing: The postpartum weeks at home involve little time for laundry; having enough comfortable, easy-to-clean clothing to cycle through is practical.

11. Saving Money: Rental, Second-Hand & Community Support

Rental services

Baby gear rental is a well-established option in Japan for large or short-use-period items. Rental is particularly popular for:

• Baby cots / cribs: Often used for 6–12 months before a child transitions to a regular bed or futon
• Car seats: Some families rent rather than purchase, particularly in cities where they do not own a car and only need a seat for occasional trips
• Baby swings, bouncers, and rockers: Items your baby may love or may not use at all
• Breast pumps: For short-term use needs

Rental terms, pricing, and minimum rental periods vary between providers. Check the rental agency's hygiene and maintenance policies before renting items that will be in contact with your baby.

Second-hand and community marketplaces

Second-hand baby clothing is generally a safe and economical choice — babies outgrow sizes quickly and items are often in near-new condition. Larger items such as strollers and bouncers are also widely available. As noted above, car seats warrant extra care when buying second-hand.

Government and local support

Japan has a range of support programs for families with young children. While specific programs vary by municipality and change over time, your city or ward office (shiyakusho — 市役所 / kuyakusho — 区役所) and local child-rearing support center are good starting points for information about subsidies, gear lending, and community resources available to residents — including foreign residents. For information about financial support related to childbirth, see our guides on Birth Cost Breakdown in Japan and Japan's Childbirth Lump-Sum Grant.

Avoid buying everything at once

The single most effective way to avoid unnecessary spending is simply to wait and see. Many items marketed as essential for newborns are either short-lived in usefulness or not needed at all depending on the baby and the family's lifestyle. Start with the genuine Day 1 necessities; let your baby's actual needs guide subsequent purchases.

12. FAQ

Do I need to buy everything before the birth?

No. Prioritize the items you genuinely need on Day 1: a car seat (legally required for road travel), a sleep space, a small supply of newborn diapers, a few bodysuits, and basic feeding supplies. Most other items can be purchased after the birth once you know your baby's preferences and needs. Japan's online shopping and same-day delivery infrastructure makes post-birth purchasing very practical.

Are Japanese baby clothing sizes very different from international sizes?

Japanese baby clothing uses centimeter-based sizing (e.g., 50 cm, 60 cm, 70 cm) rather than numeric size codes used in some other countries. Once you know your baby's length, the cm system is easy to use. Newborns typically start at 50 cm. Most labels also include a recommended age range in months, which provides an additional reference point.

Is a car seat required by law in Japan?

Yes. Japan's Road Traffic Act requires all children under 6 years of age to be secured in a child restraint system suitable for their age, weight and height when traveling in a vehicle. This applies from the first ride home from the hospital. For newborns, a rear-facing infant or convertible car seat is required. Correct installation is essential — consult the manufacturer's instructions and, if in doubt, seek professional fitting advice.

Can I use a baby bath and skincare product I brought from home?

You can use items brought from home provided they are safe for baby use. Check voltage compatibility for any electrical items. For skincare products, there is no Japan-specific prohibition on using products brought from abroad for personal use, but ensure they are suitable for newborn skin and follow the usage instructions. Japanese baby toiletry products are widely available and designed for the local climate.

Where can I find information about local government support for baby gear?

Your local city or ward office and child-rearing support center are the best starting points. Support programs vary by municipality. Many municipalities have multilingual support staff or materials for foreign residents — ask at the counter or check the office's website. Your local kosodate shien sentaa (子育て支援センター) can also point you to community-based support and gear lending programs.

Is it safe to buy a second-hand car seat in Japan?

Car safety organizations generally advise caution with second-hand car seats because it can be difficult to verify whether the seat has been in a collision (which may compromise its structural integrity even if it appears undamaged), whether it has been recalled, or whether it meets current safety standards. This is a decision each family must make, but it is worth researching carefully and, if possible, purchasing from a source where the seat's full history is known.

13. Related Resources