Baby Clothes and Essentials: What to Buy and What to Skip

When it comes to baby clothes and essentials, it’s easy to go overboard and buy all sorts of things – both that you need and don’t actually need. First-time parents especially have difficulty differentiating between such things. For that reason, we’ve decided to write a little bit about this topic and help first-time parents make the right choice. As you’ve probably noticed, baby clothes and essentials are pretty expensive, so even if you’re not on a budget, these things can end up costing a lot of money. Keep reading to learn more about the absolute must-haves and the things you and your baby can live without.

Some of the baby must-haves will make your and your baby’s life easier, while some will keep your baby safe. These things often cost more money, but they are a worthy investment. When it comes to baby must-haves. We’ve selected a few basic ones, including a car seat, stroller, baby carrier, clothes, diapers and other essentials. Among the things you can skip, we will mention a few things such as a crib bumper and bedding. Other things that are also not a necessity include a bottle sterilizer, bottle and wipe warmer as well as a bassinet. Learn more about why these aren’t a necessity.

Baby must-haves

Among the absolute baby must-haves, which you can use for other children as well, are a car seat, stroller, baby carrier, clothes, diapers and other essentials.

Car seat

A car seat is a baby essential that is practically non-negotiable. The baby needs to be safe while riding in the car. In certain countries, hospitals won’t let you drive your baby home if you don’t have the right car seat. This is something you shouldn’t buy second-hand or even borrow. Car seats do have expiration dates, so you should buy a new one that meets the safety regulations and standards. An ideal car seat is comfy for your baby, easy to clean and possesses superior performance features.

Stroller

The next thing on the list is a stroller. There are various types of strollers out there. You should examine your travel needs and consider your personality – that will help you decide which stroller is the best option for you. Some parents even buy a few different strollers for diverse purposes, but you don’t have to do that. You can get one stroller that will fulfil all your needs. For instance, if you live in a city, it would be best to get a lightweight, easy-to-fold stroller.

Baby carrier

Some strollers are 3-in-1 deals, where you can easily transform your stroller into a carrier. A carrier is great, not only for carrying your baby around but also for keeping t safe while you do something else. However, you can also get a baby carrier separately from the stroller.

Clothes, diapers and other essentials

When it comes to baby clothes, you should buy clothes made from breathable and natural materials, such as organic cotton. The clothes should also be easy to wash and dress. You should get more basic items for every day and just a few special outfits for special occasions. For spring and summer, you can get some skirts and dresses for baby girls, and shorts with shirt sets for boys. In wintertime, you can get adorable baby knitwear to show off your baby while keeping it warm at the same time. Of course, you should stock up on disposable diapers, wipes, creams, bottles, pacifiers and other essentials.

Things that you can skip

Not all the things you can find on market are necessary. There are some that are nice to have, while they are not quintessential, but there are also some that are a waste of money. Many parents around the world have picked these as being not necessary: a crib bumper and bedding, bottle sterilizer, bottle and wipe warmer and a bassinet.

Crib bumper and bedding

Some pediatrician associations strongly advise against putting baby bumpers and bedding with an explanation that they could possibly be a choking hazard. So, think about whether to get it or not. Even if you do decide to get it, make sure that it is not loose in any spot and at any time.

Bottle sterilizer

A bottle sterilizer is not a necessity as you can use warm water and soap to disinfect the bottle.

Bottle and wipe warmer

You can simply use warm water from the faucet to warm up the bottle. It is fast, simple and convenient.

Bassinet

Bassinets are great and useful. However, they can be pretty expensive and your baby will use them safely for only 1 to 3 months.

These are just some of the basics you need for your baby. Do your research online and find out more about these things. If you’re not sure about whether you need something or not, read about people’s experiences online, that can help you a lot.