Buying Stuff: Too Many Choices

[c38]

Is it just me, or are other first time mums finding all the choices when it comes to buying baby things a bit over whelming.

My parents have offered to buy me a pram, I just have to pick one out. My Dad being the thrifty one saw some on special in a catalogue and wanted to rush out and buy one cheap. Mum nagged at him....".no no it has to be the right one for her"
..but OMG... all the brands, four wheels three wheels, two wheels, strollers, basinettes, luggage cariers, cups trays, bag hooks.... there is so much to take into consideration and to judge. Then each brand seems to have about 50 different models and every shop seems to carry different models so trying to compare is a nightmare.. let alone buy through the paper. And a lot of shops have them chained up so you have to hastle someone to help you, then they put the big sales pitch on you that just confuses you more...aghh. I just end up walking out..

Slings, Car seats and so on,... How does one know whats best for them until they actually buy it and start using it...???

Then last night I started looking at nappie bags on ebay... tote, backpacks, ones that unfold and are mats and bags all in one, ones that hold it all and ones that only take the bare basics..

At least cots are pretty straight forward... just have to decide whether I want a wood tone or a coloured one, one that coverts into a bed down the track, one that comes with a change table attachment or a drawer underneath ... aghhhh:confused:

Maybe it's that fact this baby was a totally huge unplanned surprise and that I am making a lot of these choices alone. Or maybe it's the near constant nausea,and fuzzy head...but I'm just finding it all a bit too much. I know I have ages but, am getting the feeling my baby will be dressed in nappies and singlets (yes can pick those!!), sleeping in a drawer and being tied to me with a piece of old sheet...

[supermumof3]

lmao it is a lot to take in, my advice is talk to other mums for advice. and for big things like pram really consider what u will most use it for. for eg if u do a lot of walking along roads paths ets reversable handle is good to keep baby out of sun, if u do a lot of off road walking the 3 wheelers can be good. if u have a small boot go for one that folds up small, but where possible always go the cupholders toddlers only ever want to hold their own drink for 3 min max

[Milk_Monkey]

it is very overwelming buying for your first bub :yes: So glad i dont have to do it again!

The worst bit is that the people who sell the stuff know that you havent got the foggiest and will, like any good marketer, do everything possible to convice you that you need the most expensive and complicated gadgets around.

The best way to do it is to break it into peices. So you spend two weeks think about and researching your options for a pram and nothing else. Then the next two weeks, you tackle the cot.

There is also a section that is for forums discussing different products which you may find helpful.

A few points to consider....

- prams: make sure it fits into your car boot!
- Change tables: i highly reccomend one, or at least a chest of draws that you can use in a similar way, it really saves your back!!
Hmmm, i could go on. If you like ill have a think and PM you an 'essentials list'

[Butterflies&Hurricanes]

ah yes the whole buying debacle! Its not pleasant when you dont have a clue where to start. Been there done that!!
I would recommend find a family member or friend that has kids already and preferably someone who is similar to yourself and get them to go shopping with you or at least give you tips and advice.
I would also say only buy the essentials before bubs is born. Dont go mad and buy everything because you end up buying things you dont really need. Once bubs is born you can go out and buy the rest... It gets you out the house that way which is good!!
Remember opinions vary... Some people swear by a change table... I hate the things. It was fine when DS was really tiny but once he started wriggling about I felt it was just plain dangerous. I found it better changing him on the floor or bed... I just put down a change mat or terry nappy to protect the area.
I also hate baby baths. Now they break your back! When DS was tiny we bathed him in the sink and when he got too big for that we moved him into the bath. No need for a baby bath that takes up space!
Another tip is dont buy too many newborn outfits!! Not only do people give you heaps but they also grow out of it so quickly. My DS was over 8lb so wasnt in newborn outfits very long! I have so many he didnt even wear!
As far as prams go... do your research!!! Buy a pram that suits your lifestyle! If you walk lots then I'd recommend a three wheeler with the big tyres... doesnt get stuck in pebbles and uneven ground! But on the downside if you have a small car you're stuffed! They are normally big and heavy! If you go shopping a lot... get something that isnt too wide... the three wheelers generally are! you get stuck in the aisles! (obviously not the supermarket aisles but I used to get stuck at the checkout all the time and had to go around to the entrance to get out or use the disabled checkout :hissy:)
hmmm what else can I say...
Oh, um assuming you will be using disposables... start now and keep an eye out for specials on nappies and wipes... you can never have enough! Start buying them now! Trust me!! and buy a range of sizes not just the small ones. Its better to get them on special!
If I think of anything else I will come back and post...

[supermumof3]

just wanted to ad in regard to buying prams keep in mind something that is easy to clean. like material that wipes off or pram that can be pulled apart to wash they get them so grubby.