As a parent, and especially when you are a new one, having a baby is one of the most wonderful feelings. You are excited to go make your shopping list, hoping to buy everything which the baby needs. However, there are some things which need not be bought immediately. In fact, there are accessories that will only come in handy later on, if not at all.
As new parents, you shouldn’t go overboard when it comes to purchasing baby products. Aside from the fact that there are some things that are not considered essential, baby products can be costly too. In order to save you from spending too much, the following are the basic needs every parent should buy during the first year of the baby.
1. Clothing
Clothing is an essential need for all people regardless of age. For babies, sizes range from newborn, 3-6 months, 6-9 months, and 9-12 months. Go for one-piece outfits that can be buttoned at the bottom of the diaper, in between legs, because of its convenience. Further, it will allow you to change the baby’s clothes and diapers with ease without pulling the clothes over the baby’s head. It is also advisable to buy shirts or long sleeves, underwear, and pajamas for everyday use, any time of the day. Hats are also needed especially during the baby’s first month to protect the baby’s head from the weather. Hand mittens are needed for protection since the baby’s fingernails are still long and can only be cut after the first month.
There are two things to consider when buying clothes for your little one: size and material. As much as possible, choose clothes that are made of cotton since it is more comfortable and suitable for the baby’s skin. And don’t buy clothes that fit just right. Babies grow up quickly so always go for the bigger ones so that the clothes can be used longer.
2. Feeding Accessories
Feeding bottles are very important because babies will only get the required nourishment from milk, especially during the first 6 months. There are bottle sets available which can be a combination of 4-ounce, 6-ounce, or 8-ounces bottle. And in choosing bottles, purchase bottles that are Bisphenol A (BPA) free. Although there is still an ongoing debate about the effects of BPA, it is better to be safe rather than the risk of harming your baby.
If you decide to breastfeed, bottles or breast milk bags will be needed for storing the milk. A breast pump may also come in handy. Go for manual pumps rather than electric since it is more effective in pumping out the milk. Plus, it’s cheaper, which can help you save more.
3. Baby Gears
Not all baby gears need to be bought such as the baby carrier, bouncer, or bassinet. However, purchasing a car seat is important because it has become mandatory in some countries. But if there are no laws governing this, then buying a car seat can be optional. In fact, you can survive even without one.
On the other hand, it is important to buy a stroller for your baby. If you’re the type of parent who doesn’t want to leave the child with a nanny, then buying a stroller can become handy and can be used for a longer period. And go for brands with a known track record so that you’re assured of the quality and sturdiness of the product.
4. Sleeping Needs and Accessories
Some parents wouldn’t want to buy a crib, thinking that’s better for the baby to sleep beside them. That’s okay. But when you decide to buy one, go for sturdy ones which have both the bassinet feature, ideal for newborns up to 5 months, and play yard feature so that the baby can move around easily once it starts to crawl and sit on its own.
You may also want to include a mobile that can develop and harness the baby’s eyesight. It can also be a good musical box when putting the baby to sleep. However, this is only an additional accessory and can be dispensed with.
5. Health and Safety Kit
This includes a digital thermometer for checking the temperature of the baby, baby clippers for trimming your baby’s nails safely, a nasal aspirator that will prevent clogging of the nose and outlet covers, and safety gates especially when the baby starts crawling and walking on its own.
A baby monitor may be useful too especially when you have some chores and errands to do that can help you keep track of your little one. However, the reliability of the monitor can still be questioned so there are parents who opt not to buy one.
These are only some of the many needs every baby should have. However, don’t be embarrassed when accepting hand-me-downs from relatives. Remember that babies grow up fast so most clothes and other gears and accessories are used rarely. Further, it can help you save from unnecessary expenses wherein the money can be used in equally important needs.