5 Baby Essentials That Are Worth Investing In

Being a new mum is one of the most exciting journeys you can experience, but it’s no secret that its financial challenges can be overwhelming. While your first instinct may be to find the best bargains and save as much as you can on baby gear, some things are worth spending that little bit extra on — especially when they concern your baby’s safety and your own convenience as a parent.

That being said, we’ve listed some of the baby essentials that are worth investing in.

A Brand New Car Seat

One baby essential that’s a non-negotiable is a car seat. What most people don’t know is that car seats have expiration dates, so purchasing a secondhand one can put your infant in danger. Be sure to invest in one that lives up to crash-safety standards. The car seats from Maxi Cosi are some of the best in the market, as they are simple to install, have top-of-the-line safety features, and can withstand wear and tear over time. Of course, you’ll need to consider your baby’s growth and be prepared to change their car seat once your child reaches the maximum height or weight limit designated by the manufacturer.

A High-Quality Pushchair

Pushchairs are an absolute essential for any parent who wants to take their baby around with them. You’ll use a pushchair for at least a few years, so it’s crucial that you invest in one that’s durable and made with high-quality materials. Additionally, it needs to have sturdy wheels, a strong frame, and is portable enough to fit in your car trunk. The pushchair you choose will depend on the number of children you have. The good news is that if you have a young child and are expecting one more then you don’t need to invest in multiple pushchairs. iCandy have a range of double pushchairs that show how modern tandem designs can convert from a double pram to a single pram at any point. What’s great about them is that they have the same width as a single pushchair, making these designs very convenient.

A Sturdy Cot

Since your child will spend a lot of their time indoors inside a cot, it’s best to make sure that theirs is well-made with durable materials. You have two main options when choosing a cot for long-term use: The first one is a solid cot that can be converted into a bed once your kid reaches a certain age or size, and the second one is a 4-in-1 cot that can easily transform into a toddler bed, a full-sized bed, and a daybed. Whichever you choose, be sure that your kid’s cot comes with a dense mattress and doesn’t have a drop-side, since these no longer meet safety requirements. Modern cots like the SnuzPod are made with a beautiful wood material and a sleek design that’ll not only fit in any nursery, but also keep your infant safe.

A Reliable Baby Monitor

Having to check on a sleeping baby every few hours can be tiring. So if you want to spend some time for yourself while still keeping an eye on your child, you’re going to need a baby monitor. However, analogue audio monitors can be picked up by outside receivers, and this can put your family’s privacy at risk. That’s why it’s best to invest in digital video monitors that are encrypted and allow you to have a visual of your baby whenever you please. While these can be more expensive, the added security and superb video and sound quality are well worth it. Some brands to consider are Kodak’s Cherish C525 Video Baby Monitor, BT’s Smart Baby Monitor, and Babymoov’s Yoo Moov.

A Breast Pump

If you’re a busy mom with a lot of work responsibilities to juggle, then you’ll certainly need a good breast pump to save you some time. There are many types of breast pumps available on the market, but the best one should help you squeeze out as much breast milk in one session while keeping you comfortable. Be sure to look for a double electric breast pump that’s lightweight and easy to assemble. The Medela Swing Electric Breast Pump featured on My Family Fever is the perfect breast pump for on-the-go mums, as it’s discreet, quiet, and lightweight.

For more information on how to take care of yourself when you’re expecting, be sure to check our post ‘Your Guide Through Early Pregnancy – The First Trimester’.