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Buying Baby Gear: Here are the things that you can avoid buying. Know how you can save on baby gear, and some of the essentials where you need to spend.
Having a baby is definitely one of the most joyous moments in the lives of parents. All parents want to provide the best for their little ones, but then there are several things they do or buy that are totally unnecessary or probably not required at that age. And that’s because most parents don’t have any clue as to what needs to be done.
Every parent wants to provide the best care for their child, and while there are several baby items out there on the market – changing table, a bassinet, stroller, car seat, bottle warmer, baby wipes, pacifiers, swing, bouncy seat, swaddle blankets, baby carrier, washcloths, towels, baby bath, bedding, toys, diaper pail, teething rings, play mat – but you definitely don’t want them all at one go.
Many parents rush to buy all these things but the fact is that most of it goes unused.
But then life is all about trying new things, making huge mistakes, learning from said mistakes and then moving on. To help other new moms and dads, I’m sharing some of my parenting regrets that are still fresh on my mind:
1. Buying expensive clothes
Seriously, why did I spend so much money on cute dresses and coats that I was too scared to even put on my child in case she spit up on them? Buying “special occasion” outfits for a baby was one of my biggest wastes of money as a new parent. “Special occasion”? Who was I kidding — it was a special occasion if we made it out of the house most days! Needless to say, most of these frilly fancy outfits have ended up on eBay or passed down to other kids who will likely never wear them as well.
2. Putting hair accessories in my baby’s hair.
My baby was bald for her first two full years, save for a few strands of wispy blonde hair. Desperate to make her look girlier, I tracked down non-slip hair clips for “ultra fine baby hair” and stuck them on her two strands of hair. When I look back at photos, it just looks like she has a piece of felt glued to her bald head. Major fail.
3. Purchasing gear we didn’t need.
Before baby came along, I went nuts ordering every single baby item I laid eyes upon. I wanted it all — just in case — but learned that some things really aren’t necessary. The two items that stand out as my stupidest purchases are a wipes warmer (which I returned when I came to my senses) and an expensive, giant stroller that I came to loathe. I still wish I’d researched other stroller brands more thoroughly and bought a better designed, more practical and less pricey model.
4. Signing up for infant classes.
I blame this on my desperation to have adult company and my desire to fill the endless-seeming days. I enrolled my baby in countless music, gym and movement classes that were often a total waste of time and money considering my baby’s early personality (she hated them all and screamed bloody murder when we went). If I could do it all over, I’d just take her to the park and let her watch the birds and squirrels until she was old enough to show an interest in things for herself.
5. Reading too many baby books.
Because (like all new parents) I knew nothing about parenting, I read every baby book recommended to me in hopes that I would learn all the answers. Instead, I had a baby who didn’t succumb to the shushing, swinging, swaying or any of the countless other tips provided to get babies to sleep or stop crying. It left me feeling like a parenting failure–that is, until I threw out all of those books and started going with my gut instinct instead.
6. Taking no for an answer.
In my experience, our instinct as parents always trumps other people’s opinions. We know our children better than anyone does, so when something isn’t right, we feel it deep inside. During the first six weeks of my baby’s life, I was at the pediatrician at least once a week, sometimes more, searching for an answer to why she was so miserable. I knew something was wrong, even though the doctor told me she was just a colicky baby and that she’d outgrow her symptoms. After getting frustrated, I started doing some research myself and demanded to see a specialist (against the pediatrician’s advice), who confirmed that my baby needed medical help. I only wish I’d had the guts to stand up to the doctor sooner and save my baby weeks of needless misery.
When my husband and I first ventured into a Babies R Us, we stood mesmerized for quite a while in front of the Mamaroo. If you haven’t heard of this device, it is an infant seat that moves in 5 different patterns and has an MP3 plugin for your iWhatever. How is a new mom to decide between this $270 baby seat straight from the Jetsons and the $15 vibrating bouncy seat at her local consignment store?
Here are some pro tips from expert moms on where to save and where to splurge on baby gear. In general, you should also try talking to a few other moms and benefit from their experiences to buy things like clothes, furniture, and care products for the little one.
Save on These Expensive Baby Items
Well, you really don’t have to avoid buying these baby items, but definitely there are some cheaper alternatives that you may consider.
- Find out what’s on offer at your local baby and kids consignment store
- Talk to friends and coworkers with older babies (do they have some important baby products that they would like to dispose off).
- You can also consider buying secondhand or choosing inexpensive alternatives.
- Crib
You get cribs that look great, sets up easily, and even converts to a toddler bed. However, you may not need the crib for at least a few months if you sleep baby next to you in a rock n’ play or sidecar cosleeper (available online or at a consignment shop). - Crib Set
There’s no doubt that themed crib sets (comforter, crib sheets, bed skirt) look adorable. But then the little patterned blankets are only for decorative purposes. Besides, the crib sheets that come with those sets are too thin and scratchy. Instead of a crib set, do consider getting some great quality crib sheets. - Baby Bathtub
these are important but you have lots of options available, with many available for cheaper prices. so do shop around. - Everyday Clothes
Most new moms are gifted or handed down plenty of clothes for their newborn. So before heading to the store, just check if you have used all those baby clothes that were gifted to you. - Diaper Pail
Here’s a cheaper alternative – buy a trash can with a lid. Put a trash bag in it. Take it out when it stinks. It serves the purpose of packaging your baby’s diapers. - Bath seats
They might look useful but are very hazardous. When using these, you cannot leave the child alone even for a second, however important that distraction might be; its can turn out to be a matter of life and death. In case you still want one, make sure you’re around all the time till the baby is out of the tub. - Monitors
No doubt they are important because of the dangers posed at bedtime, it allows you to watch real-time footage of your little one (you can even watch the footage on your smartphone). But think before investing in one with lots of fancy features; you do get basic baby monitors as well that es the job well.
Baby Gear Where You Should Not Compromise on Money
You should not be thinking about saving all the time (although do look out for the best deals on baby products). Here are some of the things where you can spend the extra dollars to buy a better product to ensure safety and comfort for your little one.
Baby Carrier / Babywearing Device
Babywearing is great for mom and baby for lots of reasons, but it only works if everyone is comfortable. Usually local independent baby boutiques will let you try on a few different types. When you find one you love, go for it. Your baby (and back) will thank you.
- Cloth Diapers
Diapers are the most needed items in the initial months. Babies need to change diapers several times in a day. So, diapers can be a great gift item to give to new parents. However, some parents may have preference for cloth diapers or disposable diapers, so you may probably need to find that out before gifting these.
You will be spending a lot of time dealing with diapers, and babies need to be comfortable in those, so pick up the better ones out there.
- Infant Car Seat
Another important product that ensures safety for your little one. Besides, there are some hospitals that will not let you take baby home without a properly installed car seat. Do get a better quality one that is easy to install and adjust. - Diaper Bag
You may buy a diaper bag, or even use any roomy bag or backpack with good storage inside. You need this as as long as your little one is in diapers. - Thermometer
As moms, you don’t have to freak out if you think your baby has a temperature; the best way is to check if he/she really has a temperature. Besides, babies universally hate having their temperature taken. You may go in for the convenient forehead thermometers, that allows you to take your baby’s temperature while he/she is asleep. - Feeding
Do spend on an Infant formula for your little one, but breast-feed as often as possible; mother’s milk does a lot of good to the baby.
Even those who have good control over their budget can actually be overwhelmed looking at the costs associated with a new baby, and the price tag that some of the cool baby gear can have. I am sure these baby gear tips will help you save some money that you can use somewhere else (on something important of-course).
More Baby Gift Ideas
Looking for some gift ideas for the kids of your friends or someone in the family? Here are some suggestions that will save you time. You can even buy these for your own kids.
- stroller
Although a bit expensive compared to the other items listed here, a stroller can be a great gifting option to new parents. - Baby Kit
Another good option is buying a baby kit that contains essentials like baby powder, shampoo, small sized clothing. Make sure you order two sets. - Boppy or Nursing Pillow
These are extremely useful to moms of infants, helps them breastfeed the child. Nursing Pillow helps mothers support the baby while feeding, as can can also be used as props to help the baby sleep. - Bouncer Seat
One of the best gifts that you can give to parents is the bouncer seat that will keep the baby safe, secure and happy. You can also find double and triple bouncers seats from some specific stores. - Foot Rattles
You may also opt for stylish foot rattles. These are inexpensive and can keep the little ones entertained. You can give a single set for each child, or you can give only one pack so that two babies can share. - Infant Care Items
New parents always buy things related to safety and health for their children, so consider gifting those. Nail clippers, infant pain reliever, burp rags, thermometer, diaper rash ointment or medicine dispensers, are great gifting ideas.
Newborn Baby Essentials
Once your baby arrives you will need several baby essentials. It is better to be prepared, to ensure your newborn is comfortable. Here are the newborn baby essentials that you need once the baby arrives.
Philips Avent Anti-Colic Bottles Newborn Starter Set: It does not leak, does not spill formula when shaking, it is easy to clean. reduces colic and discomfort.
Baby Change Table with Casters: A baby change table has raised sides to prevent the baby from rolling away, and has a good quality wipeable surface.
Baby Thermometer: You now get non-contact forehead thermometers that are designed to take body temperature without really having to touch; this one takes the body temperature by keeping it slightly away from the forehead.
Babies cannot speak about their unease, so it is important to check your newborn’s temperature whenever s/he seems cranky. So, keep a digital thermometer around.
Maxi-Cosi Stroller Frame: You will need a stroller that accepts a car seat so that it is easy to move your little one from the car to the stroller. This one is a stroller frame and an inexpensive option.
Things like stroller and car seat helps with mobility once you have a baby. If you’re not sure which stroller to buy, you could buy a stroller frame (just the chassis) that accommodates any car seat, it makes life so much easier. As for a car seat, the safest way for babies to travel in a car is to be in rear-facing position until they’re about one.
Note: Ask someone from your family to install a car seat in the vehicle; there are many hospitals that may not allow you to leave the hospital without one.
Bellababy Breast pump: A breast pump makes it easy to fill bottles with milk, and lets your husband or parents feed the child in case you want to take a quick nap.
Lansinoh Nipple Cream: Breast-feeding can leave slight bruises, this cream offers nipple protection. It is gentle, non toxic and heals nipple area almost instantly.
Mika Micky Bedside Sleeper/Portable Crib: This one is a bassinet and a bedside sleeper, gives your baby the convenience of co-sleeping. It features several height-adjustable positions.
Huggies Natural Care Sensitive Baby Wipes: You’ll need these nappies and wipes in bulk (because you’ll need a lot).
Angelcare AC401P Movement & Sound Baby Monitor: Have peace of mind when our little one sleeps, and for that thing it is worth the purchase price.
Infantino Flip 4-in-1 Convertible Carrier: A nice baby carrier for infancy through toddler years. 4-ways to carry. Includes a bib to protect your clothing and carrier. This carrier fits just right and is so user friendly.
StrollerBoards is a family managed website with me (Ben) and my wife doing most of the work. We are proud parents of two wonderful kids and love reviewing baby travel gear. We have a firm but friendly “democratic parenting” style and offer several practical solutions backed by extensive research. Our own experience with raising two children prompted us to share our knowledge. Read more.
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