Expert Tips on What Baby Basics to Buy (And What to Skip!)
 Courtesy of Consumer Reports |
The world of baby products is extensive and exhausting.
It’s often hard to know what to get and why you need it.
Luckily, there are experts like Sandra Gordon, author of Consumer Reports Best Baby Products.
The mom of two recently spoke to PEOPLE Moms & Babies about baby must-haves, and how to save a little money when buying them.
“Do your homework, go to the store,” she says. “Get an idea of what products are right for you and your lifestyle. Maximize those registry dollars and not treat it as a gifting free-for-all — it’ll save you from making returns and being stuck with things you don’t need.”
So what should you register for — or consider buying for yourself? Gordon recommends the following:
A stationary crib. “Buy it without moving parts or drop sides,” she warns. “And bare is best. Don’t put bumpers, blankets, stuffed animals or sleep positioners in with your baby — just a tight-fitting mattress cover with a sheet.” She recommends keeping baby warm with a swaddle blanket, too. Going without crib bedding can save thousands of dollars right off the bat.
One design centerpiece. “Use a rug or piece of artwork to come up with the color palette for your nursery,” she advises. “If you have older kids, or a budding artist in the family, have them paint a picture for you.” A classically-designed room — “steer clear of pastel colors,” Gordon says — can take your child from infancy to 18.
 Courtesy of Consumer Reports |
A stroller and car seat. Gordon (left) recommends testing out strollers in store, so you can sense what brands and styles you like. “Ask your friends where to start, but put it through your own filter,” she says. “What a friend in Chicago uses may not work for you where you’re living, but can be a good jumping-off point.”
If you’re looking to save a few dollars, a second-hand stroller is OK, too, as long as it’s in good condition. But always buy your car seats new.
A swing or bouncy seat. But not both! “You don’t need multiple items that do the same thing at this stage of your baby’s life,” she says. “Just a place to sit that offers movement, contentment and safety.”
The little things. “Register for diapers of all sizes, plus wipes and ointment, as well as pacifiers,” Gordon says. “Having a stash of necessities is helpful, so you won’t find yourself running to a 24-hour pharmacy late at night!”
Other must-haves include a diaper bag and pail; basic clothes, socks, sleepers and caps; a baby bathtub, hooded towels, washcloths and a comb.
There are also essentials for both breastfeeding and bottle-feeding families: nursing bras, breast pads, a pump, six bottles, a bottle brush and drying tree, and of course, burp cloths.
“Most people spend $14,000 on baby’s first year alone,” Gordon cautions. “But you can easily get the best for your baby without spending a bundle.”
Tell us: What baby basics do you suggest for first-time parents?
— Kate Hogan
