Uncover the Truth About Baby Products
Don't Bother with...
A baby change table often comes with a hefty price tag. A particle-board version can cost at least a couple of hundred bucks, while high-end solid timber ones can exceed 0. As father-of-three David points out, unless it converts to a long-term chest of drawers, it's just a "waste of space." These tables take up valuable room and may not offer the functionality you truly need.
A fancy high chair with a cushioned fabric or leather seat is a nightmare. Spending hours scrubbing spew, mashed banana, or any other mess out of every crevice is a chore no parent wants. And high chairs made from materials that show wear and tear quickly are even more troublesome. Sydney mum Sarah swears by Ikea [plastic] high chairs, as they are practical and easy to clean.
Bottle Sterilisers and Baby Food Makers...
Mum-of-two Jenna considers bottle sterilisers and baby food makers to be the "worst offenders." We already have items at home that can perform these functions. You can easily sterilise anything by putting it in a pot of boiling water for five minutes. And making baby food is just as simple using the same devices and utensils as for adult food. These products add to the overwhelm and overconsumption rather than being truly necessary.
Bottle Warmers, Wipe-Warmers, and Feeding Chairs and Pillows...
Mum-of-one Emily found her wedge pillow and bottle warmer to be a waste. The bottle warmer took more time to plug in and get ready than simply letting the bottle sit in boiling water. And her baby didn't mind cold wipes, so a wipe warmer was unnecessary. As she said, "It's better to use what you have at home instead of investing in these extra items."
Nappy Bins...
Natalie and Antoinette believe that nappy bins are a waste of money in the long run. Unless you live in a high-rise with no elevator, the bag refills aren't cheap. It's more practical to do a "bag and dump" with cheap supermarket nappy bags. Convenience consumerism has gone too far with these bins.
Books on Birthing and Breastfeeding...
Banjo notes that every book provides different advice, and everyone's birthing and breastfeeding experience is unique. The conflicting advice can cause more stress and overwhelm. Learning by experience is often the best way, as our mothers have taught us.
But Spend Your Money On...
A good, lightweight pram is a must-have. When pregnant with her first child and commuting on Sydney's trains, the author watched parents and sought their advice. The consensus was to skip the fiddly, bulky prams and go for the lightest one with the features you need, such as a bassinet that can be replaced with a seat when the baby is about six months old. This advice has proven to be invaluable over the years.
A breast pump is also highly recommended. Laura, a mum of four from Brisbane, says it's great for convenience. It allows others to help feed the baby while the mother rests and can also help with supply issues. Working and non-working parents alike see the value in a breast pump.