Baby Products

From LoveToKnow Baby

You probably feel as if you need a larger house as you begin to make room for all of the baby products your baby will need. Storage can be a problem, and an even more confusing problem is what type of products to purchase for your new baby. The choices can be overwhelming! Does your baby really need all of these products? Can you do without some of that baby stuff? Will you need to take out a loan to pay for it all?

Absolute Necessities

There are several baby products that are absolute necessities. You just can't get along without them! These include the following:

Car Seat

Safety should be the first thought in your mind when it comes to taking your child along in an automobile. A good car seat is a very important purchase. There are many available in a variety of styles and prices. You can choose a car seat that is suited for an infant only, or you can purchase one that adapts to your child as he grows. Whatever seat you choose, however, be certain that it meets all of the Federal Motor Safety Standards, and that your child is secured properly at all times.

Stroller

While you may not use a stroller everyday, there will be plenty of opportunities to stroll your baby, whether it is for a leisurely walk or a power shopping trip in the mall. There are so many stroller styles to choose from. Some strollers come as a set along with an infant car seat. Other strollers are designed to use while jogging. Umbrella strollers are more compact and portable, but they can't be used with newborns. You may find that your stroller needs change as your child grows. Be sure you purchase a stroller that has a basket, cup holder, secure safety straps, and a canopy.

Baby Bed

Let's face it, while your little bundle of joy doesn't take up a lot of space, she'll need a comfortable, safe place to sleep. Some parents like starting their baby in a bassinet and then switching to a baby bed as she grows. Others start their little one out in a baby bed. The choice is up to you. Remember, however, to keep loose sheets, blankets, pillows, and stuffed animals out your child's crib to reduce the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). Be sure the crib mattress is firm and fits the bed snuggly. The distance between the crib slats should be no more than 2 3/8 inches wide.

Popular Baby Products

While the following baby products are popular, they aren't considered absolute necessities. In other words, you can do without them. Still, they may make your life easier.

Changing Tables

Many parents prefer using a changing table to change their baby's diaper. These tables come in lots of styles, and many offer extra storage space for diapers, creams, wipes, etc. Some changing tables can be converted into dressers. If you don't have room for a changing table, however, you can make do by placing a waterproof pad or changing pad on a dresser top or bed. Just be sure to never leave your child alone on a changing table or any elevated place.

Baby Carriers

Backpacks, front packs, and baby slings are popular items that aren't necessary baby products, but they do offer parents some freedom and convenience. Sometimes strollers are too bulky. These baby carriers allow parents to hold their babies close to them, too.

Baby Walkers/Exersaucers

With all of the controversy involving baby walkers, you might want to stick to purchasing an exersaucer instead. Baby walkers have been involved in several child injuries. Many of these accidents involved a walker plummeting down stairs, along with baby. Exersaucers, however, aren't on wheels, yet they still allow baby the freedom of sitting up, trying to stand, and playing with toys.

Playpen or Portable Crib

If you travel any at all, you'll probably want to purchase one of these. There are many styles available that are quite portable and easy to use. They are perfect portable beds for hotel rooms, etc. They also make great play yards when baby needs that extra freedom, but you want to keep her safely in sight.

These are just a few of the many baby products available for you to choose from. Remember, you know what is best for your baby!