Taking care of a newborn is a wonderful responsibility, but a responsibility nonetheless. The expenses that come with parenthood are often relatively high, especially in the first few months, which is why it’s important you know where and where not to spend your money.
Newborns often come with last-minute costs, which means you may wish to look into getting help with unexpected expenses to ensure you’re able to take care of your little one without financial stress. To help make the experience easier, it’s worth knowing which items are worth your money and which are simply a burden on your budget.
If you’re unsure where to spend and where to save, we have some essential do’s and don’ts to help you get started.
Do: Invest in Quality Travel Gear
Travelling with a newborn is a challenge in itself, but quality travel equipment can make the entire experience more seamless and comfortable for everyone. A sturdy car seat that can hold your newborn is going to last you well into their growth until it’s time to purchase one fit for a toddler. If you plan on often travelling with your little one, a compact stroller is a worthwhile purchase — the last thing you want is to struggle with setting up a complicated stroller when you’re on the go.
Don’t: Purchase a Jogging Stroller
If you plan on being active with your newborn, it’s recommended that you wait until they’re at least six months old — when they’ve developed better neck strength. Many mothers purchase jogging strollers, but this item is one of the primary items you don’t need. You’ll likely end up struggling to store it — instead, ask your mom-friends if they have one you could borrow or if you must purchase one, look online for a gently-used stroller.
Do: Velcro Swaddles
Muslin swaddles are great, but Velcro swaddles are easier when it comes to wrapping your baby back up in the middle of the night. With Velcro swaddles, you can get a more secure wrap-around that most babies could not undo, without sacrificing their comfort while asleep.
Don’t: Infant Loungers and Pillows
This might seem a bit unconventional but it is recommended that infants sleep on a flat surface free of pillows, blankets, and other soft bedding until at least age 1 to reduce the risk of strangling and suffocation. Infants can suffocate if they roll, move, or are placed on the lounger in a position that obstructs their breathing. If you want to learn more about this, Schmidt & Clark, a national law firm, wrote an informative article about an infant sleeper and lounger recalls case.
Do: Buy Onesies in Bulk
Your newborn will likely spit up on their clothes more than once, which means having an excess of plain onesies is a worthwhile investment. Try to purchase solid colours rather than spending your money on decorated outfits — having a few of those if you go out is fine, but when you’re at home, plain onesies will be your best bet.
Don’t: Buy a Lot of Shoes
Since babies aren’t walking for at least eight months, shoes aren’t a necessary expense. While shoes in their size are often cute to look at, it’s not worth spending money on — mainly because they rarely stay on their feet. Instead, keep their toes warm with knit or fleece booties.
Do: Stock Up on Diapers
Diapers are an essential purchase that you can’t get away from until you’re able to potty-train, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they have to absorb the majority of your budget. If you live near a bulk store, consider buying a larger pack of the size you need, but don’t go overboard — babies grow faster than you can keep track of. Bulk stores often give you more products for your money, which will help you save money that can be put towards other essentials.
Don’t: Overbuy Newborn Diapers
Newborn sizes are often unusable to many parents from the beginning since many babies are born closer to 10 pounds which is the maximum weight of newborn diapers. If you haven’t yet given birth, one box of these should suffice until you know for sure your newborn’s weight.
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