Having a baby can be overwhelming and knowing which products are worthwhile is important. Don't waste your money on things you won't need or use.
As D-Day, or the due date, approaches, most mothers make lists of the things they will need to buy for baby and sometimes money can be wasted on items that are rarely, if ever, used.
So what are the essentials to ensure that you are ready for the baby?
- Cot or moses basket. Unless you intend to co-sleep, the baby will need somewhere to lay his head. Little babies need a lot of sleep, so you need to make sure that whatever you chose will be comfortable. Some babies can feel overwhelmed in a large cot, so a smaller bassinet or moses basket may be better. However, as they are little for such a short amount of time, it may be worth borrowing a friend's moses basket or purchasing one second-hand. You will also need the cot linen, with plenty of extra sheets so you can change the cot quickly in the night if needs be.
- Pram , pushchair or buggy. Think carefully before you buy a pushchair and decide what you need it for. If you travel by car often, it may be best to buy a travel system with detachable car seat so you can transfer the baby in and out of the car with no disturbance. If you use public transport, then a single-hand fold, lightweight buggy is probably best as it would be hard to juggle a baby and a huge pram.
- Sling. Becoming more fashionable is the sling. This item is so handy for carrying the baby around, leaving your hands free. Slings also help the baby to feel safe and protected, they are close enough to hear your soothing heartbeat and usually fall asleep very quickly.
- Baby monitor. Experts recommend that babies sleep in your room for at least the first six months. A baby monitor is the ideal way to listen out for baby whilst not in the room. They vary from the very simple one-way listening device to sophisticated mats laid under the child to monitor their breathing.
- Nappies, wet wipes, cotton wool and muslins. Have a selection of a few different nappy brands to decide which is the best fit for your child to prevent leakage or chafing. Wet wipes can be used after the first month or so but it is best to clean newborns with cotton wool and water as their skin is so sensitive at this point in time. Muslins are essential and can be used as burp cloths, bibs, or even an emergency changing mat.
- Baby clothes selection. Have a selection of clothes ready to bring baby home in. Newborn or 0-3months sizes are best. Unless you know what you are having, neutral whites and yellows are probably best. Make sure you have bodysuits, babygrows, socks, mittens and a couple of hats.
- Baby bouncer. Ideal as a place to pop baby for five minutes whilst you make yourself a coffee. Remember to keep it on the floor only, and never on a high surface like a table.
- Play mat. Doctors recommend that babies have 'tummy time' every day to prevent plagiocephaly or 'flat head syndrome'. A nice, colourful play mat will ensure that baby enjoys her time on her tummy.
- Baby sleeping bag or Grobag. These are great to prevent babies from overheating or kicking off the covers. Again, these can be expensive so shop around and don't forget to try eBay.
- Room thermometer. Babies overheat very quickly and the ideal temperature of their room is lower than you would expect. A room thermometer is a good way to keep an eye on it. The Gro-egg is a fantastic, at-a-glance, way to monitor the temperature and it doubles as a night light.
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Peta Bicknell - I am a people-watcher and a voracious reader. I love learning about the world around me, and writing about the things I have ...
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