Buying the baby essentials
It’s so easy to get carried away with the amount of things you can buy for your
baby. From toys for the nursery, to the latest gadgets it’s easy to lose track of
how much you’ve spent. It’s easier said than done but don’t get carried away, you’ll
have plenty of time to spoil your baby. Follow our tips and you won’t leave your
baby wanting or have the bank manager at your door!
Baby clothes
With so many cute things in the shops it's easy to get carried away with buying
outfits. Trouble is, your baby won't stay the same size for long and there's only
so much they can wear!
Baby clothing essentials probably include a minimum of 6 babygros and vests, some
socks, a couple of cardigans, a little hat, some mittens (in case they have scratchy
nails) and tops with poppers – a must for quick changes. You might also find a pack
of muslin squares useful for saving your own clothes from baby sick and dribbles.
Nappy changing
There’s plenty to do when your baby arrives, so lots of moms have newborn disposable
nappies ready for the first week. You'll also need a baby changing mat, toiletries
and a baby changing bag for out & about. A baby changing station for use at
home means you won’t have to bend over so much, and might save you possible backache.
That may sound silly but not when you think that a newborn baby could need 10 -
12 changes a day!
Baby feeding
If you’ve chosen to breastfeed
your baby, invest in some good nursing bras and some breast pads. If you want to
express your breastmilk you’ll also need a breast pump, storage containers, bottles
and teats.
Baby washing
A baby's skin is delicate and they can be slippery when wet so try some specific
baby wash instead of soap and shampoo. You can buy a baby bath but a washing up
bowl is equally fine!
Baby sleeping
You needn't buy a cot quite yet. A Moses basket or the carrycot from a pram will
do nicely, especially as you'll probably want to keep moving your baby around the
house with you. You'll need proper, soft baby bedding. A listening monitor is essential
for those times when you're in another room and a thermometer to check the temperature
is right.
Don’t forget the car seat!
If your baby's born in hospital you'll need a car seat to take them home. Look out
for models that last from newborn to 4 years to save money. It’s very important
to fit the seat correctly according to the manufacturers instructions and it’s always
much safer for your baby to fit the seat in the back of the car. If you have airbags
in your car, remember you must always fit the seat in the back.
Pram or pushchair
If you do get a pram or pushchair make sure it’s designed to let your baby lie flat, to protect their growing back.
Cheap baby stuff
Ask friends and family to see what you can borrow and go to nearly new sales. They’re
great for picking up bargains. Look out for 'value options' in well known stores
too. Just because something is cheaper doesn't mean it hasn't had to meet proper
safety standards. However please remember that you should never buy a second-hand
car seat.
Baby gifts
Although it may seem cheeky, why not do a wish list of baby things? Most of your
family and friends will probably want to give something. You'll be doing them a
favour by giving them a shopping list for your new baby! If you're lucky enough
to have a large and generous family maybe put a few requests for clothes and toys
to suit them when they're a little older? It's amazing how time flies!
We’ve put together a list of new things you might like to put together for the your
new arrival,
download it here.