Tips for Buying Baby Gear
Buying baby gear can be a frustrating experience for new parents
who want to have the best for the baby, yet they still have to
watch their budget. They need to buy baby furniture, such as a
crib or bassinet,
a change table and a playpen. Parents also like to purchase a
baby swing and a stroller for taking the baby for a walk. A
cheaper alternative to a stroller is a baby sling where you can
carry the baby comfortably and still keep him/her nestled close
to you.
Other supplies that you need include baby clothes. When you are
buying for the new baby, just remember that although an outfit
may look cute, you have to think about how comfortable the baby
feels in it. Babies grow a lot in the first few months, so it is
really a waste of money to buy a lot of outfits in newborn
sizes. You are better off buying in the 3 - 6 month range at
first. You will find that the baby will quickly outgrow even
these. You also have to look at the material to make sure it
won't shrink after the first wash.
Also buying clothes that suit either a boy or a girl is a good
choice, because the chances are great, the baby will grow out of
it long before it is worn out. Then you can pack it away for the
next baby.
You have to decide whether you will start with a rocking
bassinet or a full size crib. There are many bassinets combined
with a playpen so this will save you money. Some bassinets
convert into a change table and most of them are portable,
making them great for travel. A crib is necessary for when the
baby gets older, but for a newborn a bassinet is a good choice
to make.
You also have to look at bottles pacifiers, toys and later on a
high chair. All of these come in many makes and models, but
before you buy make sure that they are rated according to safety
standards.
Even with all this, you won't be allowed to take the baby home
from the hospital without a car seat
installed in the back seat. For this you need to look at ones
that convert from rear to forward facing and that you can use a
booster seat when the child gets older.