Baby Products: Need Vs Want

Every new parent is eager to start shopping for their little one. But you can quickly become overwhelmed with the numerous baby products on the market. There's a fine line between what you really need, what you think you want, and what you're just wasting money on. Many first time parents over buy and later regret it. You just need to remember who you're buying for.

Babies don't need all the high priced toys, expensive bedding, and 300 cute outfits. While a plain empty crib isn't what you want, a ten piece bedding set isn't what baby needs. Save your money and buy a couple sets of crib sheets. Pillows, fluffy blankets, and matching bumpers are risks for SIDS and should be taken out of the crib. You can still have an adorable nursery while being practical. A diaper stacker is functional and can be matched to the decor. A changing table isn't necessary either. A changing pad on top of a dresser will be much cheaper, and last much longer. Simple things will be the best furniture in the nursery.

The same applies to baby's play things. A baby doesn't need tons of toys and every kind of baby seat available. While a swing will come in handy, having a swing and a bouncer, walker, Exersaucer, Bumbo and Jumperoo will not only drain your wallet, but crowd your house. Keep things simple. A baby won't know if there's a new toy out you haven't bought, they will only care that you are playing with them. You are baby's best toy. You can offer more stimulation and activity than anything you can buy.

You don't need top-of-the-line products that cost twice as much. While a high chair may be necessary, a simple one works just as well as the $300 one that folds, adjusts, sings, and matches the kitchen counter. Look for the features you really want, such as a washable cover, and avoid over paying for things you don't want, such as attachable toys. A basic baby monitor will alert you to baby's cries just the same as a light-up monitor with motion sensing.

Remember babies grow fast. Resist the urge to buy every onesie that catches your eye. Most babies wear an outfit only once or twice before outgrowing it, and some outfits never get worn. They won't fit in the infant bath tub for more than a couple months, and all those newborn hats-and-booties sets won't last long either.

All babies really need in the first few months, and most of the first year, is a safe place to sleep, a good car seat, food (be it breast or bottle), diapers, and loving arms to hold them. Many things, like a high chair, toys, sippy cups and baby food can wait until baby is older. You don't have to spend a small fortune right away. With a little common sense, and some self restraint, you can avoid buying the entire baby store. Ask if it is a need or just a want before purchasing, and you can save yourself some buyer's remorse later.