Baby Equipment
An infant car seat for a child up to twenty pounds is required to take infants home from most hospitals. Infant strollers in which the baby can sit up and the seat can be removed and even converted to a place where the baby can recline are extremely useful for parents. They can be costly but are essential for newborns. The Peg Pergo brand might be a bit more expensive than the others but in our extensive collective experience with many babies, it can’t be beaten for sensibility and above all safety. If this is the couple’s first child, it will also offer good value, since it can certainly be handed down to other siblings as and when they arrive, and eventually sold in good condition second-hand and snapped up for a good price.
Baby bouncers, a baby boppy if the mother plans to breast feed, a diaper bag, and a bottle sterilizer and rapid bottle and jar warmer are also essentials which any mother will appreciate. Again, set your budget and shop around for the best value. Check the special deals at Amazon and read the reviews from real moms with real babies. We once got the most amazing Winnie the Pooh teething blanket for only a few dollars that was worth its weight in gold.
Baby Clothing
In addition to the usual layettes which a newborn will need for the first three months of its life, hat, booties, a blanket and little jacket or top, the baby might also need seasonal outerwear, soft shoes, hats and mittens. Most doctors do not want baby to go out until they are well into their sets of vaccinations, but they will have to go to the doctor, to visit family, and so on.
Baby undershirts, sleep sacks for easy changing of the baby, and baby pajamas and socks are essential for newborns. Believe us, there is nothing more convenient than a sleep sack. They are comfortable and the hem can be flipped up for easy diaper changes without having to worry about getting pants on and off the flailing legs of a small infant.
Special bibs, sweaters, dresses and outfits for special holidays coming up, such as a Christmas bib, also make great gifts. There are many bibs with pictures and slogans on them too. When in doubt, aim for classy, not crass; cute, not crude. Not everyone has the same sense of humor, after all.
Continued in Part 3
FURTHER READING
How to Slash Costs and Save Money on Everyday Expenses
How to Use the Internet to Save Money
Going Green for New Moms: A Beginner’s Guide to Raising Your Baby in an Eco-Friendly Way
Green Mother’s Guide: How to Raise a Child More Greenly and Naturally
The New Green Family Guide: A Beginner’s Guide to Going Green as a Family
