Perhaps it's hormonal, or maybe it's just the sheer anticipation of having a baby, but suddenly baby stores call out to expectant mothers in new and exhilarating ways! Each shiny product boasts its own unique reasons for being an integral part of your nursery, surely something baby cannot live without. And for parents who want to be a little bit frugal, the whole process of accessory shopping can become overwhelming. However, it is not so difficult to shop for cheap baby accessories while still providing every single thing your baby will need to be comfortable, safe and happy.
Step number one for finding good quality, less expensive baby products is to determine what the baby really needs. Necessity vs. luxury is an age-old theme, and yet its timelessness reflects its wisdom. For example, diapers are probably something you cannot live without, but baby wipe warmers...well, those you might want to pass on.
The best way to determine which baby accessories really need to come home is to talk to new parents. Ask them which products they love, which they wish they hadn't spent money on, and which they would recommend to others. It's amazing how some products seem so valuable in the store and yet they barely make it out of their boxes once they arrive home.
Another thing to remember is that the earlier you begin the baby-shopping mission, the more money you will probably spend. Many expecting parents make the mistake of shopping way in advance of the baby's arrival. Although it is fun, and perhaps even habit-forming, this early shopping leaves you plenty of time for more shopping and therefore more money spending during your waiting period.
Remember that although it is nice to have the basic baby accessories ready for the baby's arrival, that there will be some items that you won't even know you need until after baby comes. It's okay to shop later too; and sometimes running out alone will be a welcome relief!
If you are going to have a baby shower, you will, no doubt, receive lots of basic baby accessories. This is just another reason not to shop too early. It is not at all uncommon to end up with duplicates of items that you might have spent a lot of money on. It pays to wait and see which gifts you receive and what you will actually need.
One of the best ways to get cheap baby accessories is to shop at secondhand stores and garage sales. With a careful eye, one can find excellent baby accessories in mint condition for a fraction of their original cost. It is important to note, however, that the majority of safety experts advise against purchasing secondhand car seats. It is impossible to tell if a car seat was involved in a past accident that may have altered its frame and therefore made it unsafe. Therefore, this is one mandatory accessory that should be purchased new, or received as a hand-me-down from a reliable source.
Many new parents realize that they can do without a changing table. All you really need to efficiently change your baby is a flat surface and a changing pad. Changing tables are not a permanent part of baby's room, and within two years or so, most parents are more than happy to get rid of them.
If you do want a changing table, however, consider the convertible models. These changing tables are more practical, as they transform into desktops or attractive storage compartments for the older child who no longer wears diapers.
Finally, it's important to beware of overly attentive sales help. Don't be vulnerable to the sales staff that practically place unwanted items in your cart! It is so easy to get swept up in the moment, while surrounded by adorable and cutting edge baby accessories. Stop and think about what your baby really needs. A few of the basics? Definitely! But most of what your baby needs will come straight from you, and won't even cost a cent.
