Let's be honest -- shopping for a new baby can be really fun. So much fun in fact that it's easy to get carried away buying bibs, onesies, adorable little blankets, and footie pajamas, not to mention big-ticket items such as a crib, stroller and rocking chair. The truth is you probably don't need all this stuff.
Here is our list of the five must-have items for your new baby:
- Car seat: You'll need a car seat for that first ride every baby takes -- home. Conduct some online research in advance and check out ratings for various car-seat makers. You'll also want to double-check and make sure your car seat doesn't have any product recalls on it. And make sure you install it properly. If you're stumped, many Highway Patrol officers or hospitals can show you how, according to Jon Ann Steinmetz, Yahoo Shopping's resident gift-giving expert.
- Bed: While you could buy a bassinet, a crib and a toddler bed, there are also a number of beds that serve as all three. MyBargainBuddy.com shopping expert Karen Hoxmeier suggests looking into a 3-in-1 crib.
- Thermometer: You can get the old-fashioned kind that you tuck under a baby's armpit, or you can opt for the new digital kind that'll give you an accurate ear-reading in a jiffy.
- Onesies: Whether you have a winter or summer baby, you'll use these either by themselves or underneath other clothes. And they're just so darn cute.
- Stroller: The kind of stroller you buy is entirely dependent on your lifestyle and where you live. If you're in the city, you'll probably want a small, lightweight model. If you're a runner, you might want a jogging stroller. Be sure to kick the tires (literally) before you buy one. And check out all the bells and whistles. You don't want to be the mom or dad we've all spotted in the parking lot, struggling to figure out how to open that gigantic contraption.
Here are five items that are not critical, but could come in handy:
- Changing table: Nearly every baby guide will lead you to believe you must have a changing table. While some parents like them, others find you can get the job done simply by changing baby on the floor or bed and slipping a towel underneath.
- Baby swing: Some parents swear by these. And few things soothe a fussy infant like a baby swing. So if you've got a baby who is kvetching, Hoxmeier suggests Graco's Swing n' Bounce Swing. If you've been blessed with an uncomplaining baby, however, this might be a purchase you can wait on.
- Diaper Bag: Yes, you'll need a diaper bag, but you don't need to tote around a giant sack with all sorts of compartments for baby supplies. Get a bag you like that will not only fit the diapers, handwipes and a bottle, but your wallet, keys and sunglasses too.
- A carrier or sling: If you like to keep your baby as close to you as possible, then look into a sling, such as those available from Baby Bjorn. There are also "backpack"-style carriers (actually worn in the front). They're great for carrying the baby when you go out and a stroller would be unwieldy, says Steinmetz.
- A sleep book: You'll want to adopt some sort of sleep strategy for the baby. That is, if you ever want to get any sleep yourself! Read up on some of the various sleep training methods to see what suits your personality.
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