When To Start Buying Baby Stuff: A Guide to Timing Your Baby Purchases
Congratulations on your pending arrival! As you gear up for this new chapter in your life, one question weighing heavily on your mind is when should you begin buying baby items? It can be tempting to rush into buying everything as soon as possible, but taking things slow can ultimately save you some stress and money in the long run.
Tips for Your Timeline
Here are some tips to help you plan your purchases. This way, you will feel less frazzled and won’t leave anything out.
First Trimester
You may not feel ready to start buying baby stuff during the first trimester. Still, there are a few items you can begin researching and considering.
Supplements
Start stocking up and taking your prenatal vitamins. Your obstetrician will guide you and recommend what you need and which brands.
Stretchy pants (and more)
Invest in some comfortable maternity clothes that will come in handy as your body changes. Find one or two maternity outfits that will make you feel good and equipped for any outings or special occasions, but don’t overdo it. Maternity clothes are costly, and you only wear them for a short time. So supplement your wardrobe with regular clothes designed to stretch or fit loosely. You also get really useful extenders that will make the waist of your favorite jeans or dress pants accommodate your growing bump.
Related post: Things New Moms Need for Themselves!
Second Trimester
The second trimester is a great time to start focusing on baby items, as you’ll have a better idea of what you’ll need and how much you can spend.
Crib & Mattress
The crib will be the centerpiece of your baby’s nursery, so be sure to get this right. Choose a crib that meets safety standards and invest in a good-quality mattress.
Related post: When should I start putting up a baby nursery?
Changing Table
Minimize messes and maximize bonding with a personalized changing area. A changing table can make diaper changes much easier and more comfortable for you and your baby. However, don’t get one with a built-in baby bath. It takes up valuable space, and your baby will outgrow it long before they outgrow the changing table.
Stroller
Parenting requires mobility. You’ll likely be using your stroller daily, so choose one that fits your lifestyle and budget.
Car Seat
This is one of the most important investments you can make. Choose wisely and remember that, in this case, a penny saved is not a penny earned. A quality car seat can last for years and see you all the way through to when tweenhood approaches and it’s no longer necessary. It’s also recommended that you buy one new, as second-hand car seats may not meet all the safety standards anymore.
Clothes
Growth spurts will take you by surprise, believe me. So don’t get caught short-handed – stock up on essentials like vests, onesies, and simple outfits of varying sizes. You will likely have plenty of clothes for the first three months as those are the sizes people usually gift you at your baby shower. So look for items in larger sizes, but consider that the seasons will change. You need to ensure that what you buy will be appropriate for the weather when your baby reaches that age.
Budget hack – Keep them on a list! Check out this helpful baby must-haves checklist!
Third Trimester
During the third trimester, focus on finalizing your preparations for your new arrival.
Feeding Supplies
If you plan to breastfeed, invest in quality nursing bras, pads, nipple cream, and a breast pump. If you know that you won’t be able to breastfeed or choose not to, stock up on quality bottles, nipples, and formula. But don’t overdo it. You may have 20 bottles and teats only to discover your baby won’t take it, and you need to buy another brand.
The same applies to baby formula. Your baby may have specific needs, such as hypoallergenic or lactose-free formula, that you will only fully understand through trial and error. If your formula tin and bottle supplies are still sealed, you can probably exchange what you have stockpiled.
Swaddles & Sleepsacks
Swaddles or sleepsacks help support your newborn’s sense of safety and security. And they are so much fun to buy. But don’t be surprised at how many you need. It’s one of the few things parents tend to underestimate.
Baby Monitor
A baby monitor can give you peace of mind when your baby is sleeping in another room. Nowadays, so many excellent and interactive versions are available, but they can be pricey. However, it’s not something you should skimp on, as peace of mind is priceless.
Bath Supplies
Stock up on baby shampoo, soap, and towels for bath time. Keep it simple and choose hypoallergenic, fragrance-free products.
Baby Carrier
A baby carrier can be a lifesaver. It keeps your baby close and your hands free. They are great for bonding with your little one on the go but be warned. Some babies hate it and will make sure you know about it.
Diapers and Wipes
These are money munchers, and you can never have too much. Buy diapers in bulk and in varying sizes. Sealed bags can be swapped if you over-catered for a particular weight category.
Diaper Bag
Keep yourself organized when leaving home by investing in a well-designed diaper bag that is easy to carry. It should have pockets for all essential items, such as diapers, wipes, and formula. Make sure it is spacious enough to hold a change of clothes, too (for you as well as the baby). Even better if it can also fit your wallet and other essentials that would typically go in your purse. That way, you only need to carry one bag around.
Related post: Thank your sponsors! Check out these baby registry greeting messages!
Once Baby Arrives
Once the baby arrives, you’ll quickly realize that your perception of what is essential and what isn’t changes. You’ll only need to buy some items once your baby is born, and you have a better feel for what you need and your baby’s likes and dislikes.
Baby Bath Tub
While you can use a sink or basin for bathing your newborn, a baby bathtub can make bath time more manageable and comfortable. However, babies outgrow these quickly, and you may decide you don’t need one. I learned very quickly that the mission of filling and emptying a plastic tub daily while nursing a cesarian wound was no fun. The best thing I ever bought was a super cheap metal and cloth baby hammock. I could run water in a regular tub, lie my son in his hammock, and I had both hands free to bathe him.
High Chair
While you won’t need a high chair right away, you’ll want to have one ready once your baby starts solid foods. Make sure you find one with nonslip feet and a three-point safety harness (minimum)
Baby Toys and Books
While your newborn won’t be able to play with toys right away, you’ll want to have some age-appropriate toys on hand once your baby starts to develop their motor skills and hand-eye coordination. And believe it or not, it’s never too soon to start reading to your baby. It can help promote language development and bonding. So invest in a few age-appropriate books and start early.
Related post: Is this your baby number 2? Here’s what to register for your second baby!
Wrap Up – When to start buying baby stuff?
Well, there you have it. All your essentials mapped out on a timeline to help you plan. While this timeline provides a general guideline, every family’s needs and circumstances differ. You may find that you need to adjust your timeline based on your budget, your baby’s needs, and your personal preferences. But it’s a great starting point. Good luck!