baby gear - equipment

Having a baby?

Having a new baby in the house means you'll buy more equipment and clothing than you ever imagined was possible. It's worth considering how much of it you really need?

If you plan to be eco-friendly (and budget conscious) right from the start here are some recommendations:

• Talk to other mums (and dads) about what they found really useful and what items they only used once!
• Trade Me and eBay are great resources for items that will only be used for a short period of time eg activity mats, bouncinettes, and push along toys (for learning to walk).
• Your local Toy Library (in NZ), or toy rental places are great for toy hire.
  

Discounts:

Look out for discount sites eg GrabOne and NZ Sale that can save you literally hundreds of dollars.

Eco Baby showers:

If you're an eco-conscious parent, ensure you have a list so you get the organic/eco-friendly items that you really want.

Check out our Pregnancy Section for great baby shower tips.

Car seats:

In New Zealand, carseats (0-6 months) can be hired from Plunket or many Baby Shops. You can also buy just one seat that is adjustable (goes from 0-4 years).

In the United States, here is a comprehensive list of baby equipment rental places by State.

Prams & Buggies:

Then there's the dilemma about which pram/pushchair or buggy to buy. Babies should be lying a flat position for the first six months, so you need to consider purchasing a pram that has a flat lie back position or a carrycot attachment.

Think about borrowing or buying a temporary pram and then purchase that pram/pushchair or stroller you've always wanted at 6 months.

Check out the October 2006 issue of NZ Consumer for a review of major baby buggy brands.

Bassinets:

There's nothing more lovely and secure for a baby than a cosy bassinet or moses basket but they are only used for 3-4 months.

Look at other options like cots with bassinet inserts, baby hammocks or even a top-of-the-line bassinet that converts from a beautiful bassinet, to a cot, to a junior-size bed and/or seating.

Furniture:

Look for cots, highchairs and change tables that convert into other pieces of furniture as baby grows. Opt for wool and natural mattresses and furniture made with non-toxic wood and finishes.

Second hand safety standards:

When buying second hand baby equipment, it is important to always check with current safety standards first and check that the item you are buying meets all the criteria.

In New Zealand, check out the Commerce Commission web site for safety regulations for toys, cots and baby walkers.

In the United States, visit the US Consumer Product Safety Commission web site.