Quote:
Originally Posted by tvp2003
Any suggestions or tips on what to buy? Any brands or features to look for? Is there anything that you don't really need (or conversely, is worth its weight in gold so you should get a really good one)?
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Just a few suggestions:
- A lot of cribs have been getting recalled lately; make sure you get something that is pretty sturdy (and hopefully therefore less likely to be recalled). A recall is a pain, and if you have to actually replace your crib you'll end up paying extra because you can bet prices will have gone up.
- It's worth paying extra for a good car seat. Britax is a good brand. We used to have an Eddie Bauer seat, but the straps were really hard to tighten so we gave up on it.
- I wouldn't buy a dedicated change table. The top of a regular table or desk works just as well and is usable afterward. Do get a strap-on pad though, with at least 3 covers (so if one gets messed up while another is in the wash you still have one to use - yes, that does happen quite often at first).
- I also wouldn't bother with an expensive bassinet - you'll only use it for a couple of months. Some playards have a bassinet that works just fine, or a laundry basket will do in a pinch.
- There are a lot of choices for strollers, and what works for you may be lifestyle dependent. Getting one with big wheels is helpful if you'll be taking outdoor walks in the winter. Really cheap umbrella strollers are a pain to use (wheels keep getting stuck etc.); it's worth spending a bit more for a higher-end umbrella stroller.
- Freecycle and garage sales are a good way to save a lot of money, since a lot of baby stuff is only used for a short period of time, after which people will be looking to get rid of it.