Mark Rogers
As a first time parent you may wonder what the one item you can’t live without is to care for your baby. However with so many products available, it's often a struggle to sort the most needed items from the unnecessary. Choosing quality, lasting products should be key to bear in mind when buying baby products, especially if you're planning on having more than one child. See these important items you need when caring for your newborn:
Strollers are a must for parents on the move, and there are a diverse range of strollers or travel systems safe for use in a number of environments. When looking for strollers, ensure they lock when folded and that the locking mechanisms look sturdy. Consider a rain cover and a sunshade to protect your baby in summer.
This is a very useful product if you’re out using the stroller and have your baby’s drink with you, as this way you can keep safe with both hands on the stroller. If you need to lean over to your baby you’ll also avoid the potential spills or dropping of the bottle!
You’ll need to check that the car seat will fit comfortably in your backseat and complies with the latest laws when choosing an appropriate car seat for the age and size of your child. For parents using more than one car, getting an additional car seat base will enable you to easily transfer the car seat between vehicles.
Cots, cradles or cribs come in all shapes and sizes, so it’s a good idea to shop in person to check the height and see how easy it will be to get your baby in and out. If you’re looking for value for money, there are convertible cribs that can transformed into a toddler bed, ideal for longer lasting use.
If you’re tight for space, you can opt for a highchair that straps onto a regular chair. This would also save storage you need to place your baby down. They are simple and convenient to use, leaving you free to carry out daily activities.
It’s recommended that you’ll need at least eight all-in-one suits to cover your baby’s first few months. One or two cardigans will be good for an extra layer of clothing, as well as a soft hat if they’re premature or to protect them from the cold. Be sure to check that clothing is of a suitable thickness if your child is in the car, as they could become too hot.
Newborn babies will need their nappies changed a lot of times per day – it’s wise to buy enough to keep you going for at least the first few days. Nappy sacks, liners, a bucket and wet wipes will all be of great use. We’d also recommend that you keep at least one pack of disposable nappies at hand as well, as they may save trouble if you get behind with the washing.
This is an essential piece for holding all the different things you need to take with you wherever you are. There are many bags available with compartments, changing mats and space for your baby's bottle to keep you organised amongst the chaos!
Muslin squares are such a versatile item; they can protect you and your baby’s clothes from sick, wipe up dribbles or spills, and they also provide a soft surface for resting your baby's head on.
Always follow the manufacturers' age recommendations for toys and evaluate any hand-me-downs which may not comply with modern regulations. Some have small parts that can cause choking, so check the warnings provided on a toy's packaging. A toy needs to be unbreakable and strong enough to withstand chewing.
