Tips for Buying Baby Gear

by Lisa Koshinsky

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.