http://www.parentsrightsusa.com/ Parent’s Ultimate Guide to Buying Baby Gear

1. Parent’s Ultimate Guide to Buying Baby Gear
By Jenifer J. Michaud
Introduction
It’s true that babies are small but take up a lot of space. Between baby clothes, cribs and all the
other baby gear you will need, it all adds up. Once you realize how many different baby gear items your
baby will need, you might feel overwhelmed. Don’t worry, we are here to help you overcome all the
obstacles you might face.

2. Different Types of Baby Gear
Strollers
There are so many kinds of strollers out there to choose from. From double strollers, to jogging
strollers or even umbrella strollers, you can choose which one works best for your family. For more
information about top rated strollers, visit http://www.parentsrightsusa.com/top-10-best-strollers/
Umbrella Strollers
Umbrella strollers are usually more lightweight and compact. They are called umbrella strollers
because their handles look just like an umbrella handle. They are typically easier to fold and cheaper
than other strollers. Many umbrella strollers advise you not to use them until your baby is at least six
months old and can sit up unassisted.
Although many umbrella strollers are just simple strollers, you can find some with added
features. Most of them come with brakes for the back wheels. But you can also find some with canopies
and baskets underneath for storage. A canopy is good for a stroller so you can keep the sun out of your
baby’s eyes.
Jogging Strollers
Jogging strollers are a good choice for long distance walks. They are also good for parents that
are trying to get back into shape. Typically, these strollers have three wheels, one large in the front and
two in the back. The front wheel is usually able to be locked, so that you don’t have to worry about it
wobbling while you are jogging or walking.
Jogging strollers are also great for all terrains; you can take your child on uneven payment while
maintaining a smooth ride. Most jogging strollers come with a canopy and under basket storage. You
can also find one with a built-in speaker so you can listen to music while you exercise. If you plan on
using it all year, you might want to buy a rain cover for the stroller. A rain cover will cover the entire
stroller, blocking rain from getting on your precious baby.
Double Strollers
Double strollers are great for parents with twins or two small children. You can choose from a
side by side double stroller or one with a front seat and a back seat. For twins, side by side usually work
the best. If you have children that are two different ages, a front and back seat might work better for
you. You can place the younger child in the back so you can see them much easier.
Double strollers aren’t usually easy to fold. They also take up a lot of space when you are trying
to store them. If you choose a side by side model, you might have difficulties fitting through some
doorways as well. With double strollers, you want the basket underneath for storage. You can even buy
a double jogging or umbrella stroller!
Other Things to Look Out For
It’s a great idea to find a stroller that has been safety tested. If you need to, research a brand
before you finally choose a stroller. If you’re buying online, try and find the stroller in a store and walk
with the floor model so you can see how it feels to push. It’s also nice to have a stroller that has a child’s
tray with a cup holder as well as an adult’s tray for you.

3. Adjustable handles are also great for parents that have a significant height difference or parents
that are tall. If you can find a canopy that adjusts one hundred and eighty degrees, that’s another bonus.
Strollers that are easy to fold and unfold can be a huge convenience.
Car Seats
Car seats are essential for every baby. Even if you don’t drive, your baby is more than likely
going to be in a car at some point. You want the safest car seat you can possibly have for your baby.
You’ll want to find a car seat that also has been side crash tested. Canopies are great to have on a car
seat as well as a comfortable handle for when you are carrying your baby. For more information, visit
http://www.babygearlab.com/Best-Car-Seat
If you have a stroller that has a children’s tray, you’ll want a car seat that is compatible for when
your baby is still small. Many car seats come with a base, but if yours doesn’t, you might want to find
another car seat. Car seat bases can range from thirty to sixty dollars sometimes. Always check height
and weight limits before choosing a car seat; you’ll want to make sure you get as much use out of it as
you can.
You can even choose a convertible car seat. Although convertible car seats cost more than just a
typical car seat, you can use many until your child is out of car and booster seats completely. Most
convertible car seats can be used from birth to fifty pounds. You can use them rear and front facing.
Many also have removable backs so you can use it when your child no longer needs a booster seat with
a back.
Travel Systems
Travel systems can also be a great choice to buy. Most travel systems include a stroller, a car
seat and the base for a car seat. This way, your whole travel system matches perfectly. You can also save
a lot of money with a travel system. Many are available for a lower price than just a stroller. You want to
follow the same guidelines that are above when choosing a travel system.
Baby Carriers
Baby wearing is becoming more and more popular; it also is great for mothers who breastfeed.
There are different kinds of baby carriers to choose from including; wraps, slings and convertible
carriers.
Wraps
Baby wraps are a great choice for when your baby is still small. They might be difficult to figure
out at first, but once you get the hang of it, it will be like second nature. Wraps are great because they
hold your baby close to you. They also make it so you can cuddle your child while being hands free so
you can do other things as well.

4. When choosing a wrap, you’ll want to choose a good fabric. You’ll want a breathable lightweight
fabric; it can get hot while baby wearing. You’ll also want to find one that has a good weight limit on it
so you can use it for a longer time. There are many great brands out there to choose from.
Slings
Slings are a lot like a baby wrap, but easier to put on. They usually just go over your shoulder
and still hold your baby nice and close to you. Slings are great for breastfeeding moms; you can feed
without holding your baby. With a sling, you’ll still want a lightweight and breathable fabric so that you
don’t overheat yourself or the baby. Many slings will support a child up to about forty pounds.
Convertible Carriers
Baby carriers are great once your child is at least four months old. You can use a regular carrier
before they are four months. If you plan on using a carrier with a newborn, make sure you find one that
is made for newborns as well. Newborns need to be facing towards you with their legs a certain way.
Many convertible carriers will allow you to carry your baby facing towards you, forward facing and wear
it like a backpack. Same as with other carriers, find one that has breathable fabric and has a higher
weight limit.
Baby Monitors
A baby monitor is a great thing to have. You can leave your baby alone for a moment and keep
an eye on them with a monitor. You can usually choose between just audio monitors and video
monitors. Video monitors are great if your baby sleeps in their own room, you can look at the screen
and see how they are sleeping. Audio monitors are good if you are just leaving your baby for a moment.
It’s also a good idea to find a monitor that has two parental units, just in case you lose or break
one. Also, many parental units can either be plugged in or use batteries. The option to choose is helpful
so that you can carry your unit around with you. Plugging in is good for when you are going to bed at
night and your baby is sleeping in their room.
Breast Pumps
If you are breastfeeding or plan on breastfeeding, you will need a breast pump. There are so
many to choose from. You can get a single or double pump in either electric or manual. For more
selection, please visit http://www.thebump.com/a/best-breast-pumps-reviews
Electric
Electric pumps typically work faster than manual pumps; although everyone’s pump response is
different. A lot of single electric pumps can also take batteries just in case you are nowhere near a wall
outlet when it’s time to pump. Double electric pumps are helpful for mothers who are exclusively
pumping or are going back to work. With double pumps, you can also usually buy a special bra to insert
your flanges into. With single electric pumps, you typically must hold the pump while in use.

5. Manual pumps require no batteries or electrical outlets. Some women prefer manual pumps
since you can control the suctioning power. There are also manual pumps that you just suction onto
your breast and you don’t have to hold it; which can be very helpful in many situations.
Pumps either come with bags or bottles to store your milk into. If you’re trying to build a stash
of extra milk, bags might be the better option. You can freeze the bags in the back of your freezer, lying
flat, saving you more space than using the bottles. If you choose a pump that has the storage bottles,
you can always buy bags and transfer your milk after every session.
Diapers
Diapers are an absolute necessity with babies. It can be difficult to choose which ones are best
for your baby before your baby is born. You can choose cloth diapers. Cloth diapers save you money and
your baby usually won’t suffer from diaper rash. Cloth diapers also prevent blow out diapers from
happening if you choose the wick away diapers. Plus, you can choose different design and colored
diapers for your baby.
Disposable diapers are more common, but there are so many sizes and brands out there. And
every baby is different, just because your first child did great with one brand doesn’t mean they will
work with your second or third child. If you are trying to create a diaper stock pile before your baby
arrives, you should buy multiple brands and kinds. This way, if one brand doesn’t work, you will have
back up diapers.
Playpens
Playpens are great for babies. You can place them inside their playpen for a nap, or to play while
you get some housework done. Many playpens are easy to store and fold. A lot of playpens now come
with a bassinet or a changing table that is removable. If you wanted to place your baby into a bassinet
for the first couple of months, a playpen with a bassinet would be a good idea. This way, you could use
the bassinet portion while they are still so young and then use the playpen part when they get older.
You could place your child in their playpen to play or nap while you get housework done without
having to worry about them roaming around. You could also take your playpen with you if you visit a
friend or family members house. If you take it with you while traveling, it will ensure your baby has
somewhere to sleep or play. You can also use a playpen to keep animals away from your baby.
Baby Swings
Baby swings are very soothing for babies and usually helpful for parents as well. You can usually
find a high-quality swing at a reasonable price. If you plan to use the swing for naps or just play time,
you can find one that has a mobile on top and plays soothing music. Many parents like to use swings to
place their child in when they need to do something else. The calming music and rocking motion
typically puts many babies to sleep. If you could find a swing that swings from side to side and front to
back would be a good option.

6. Cribs
Cribs are essential, unless you plan on bed sharing until your child is big enough for a toddler
bed. You’ll want to choose a durable and safe crib for your baby. It’s also a bonus if you find a crib that
will turn into a toddler bed and then a full. You could get years of use out of a durable convertible crib.
You could also find one that has a changing table attached. Although you could change your baby on a
pad anywhere, changing tables are helpful for those late-night changings. Plus, the changing table
portion usually has drawers and shelves, which can add storage room for diapers, wipes, and clothes.
High Chairs
High chairs are great when your baby is big enough to start eating solids. If you choose a high
chair that stands on its own, you’ll want one that has a removable tray. The removable tray will help you
with putting the baby in and taking the baby out. You’ll also want to make sure it has a three-point
harness buckle so that your child can’t climb out of the high chair. You can also choose a high chair that
just connects to a regular kitchen chair. These kinds of high chairs are great for traveling, going to
restaurants and visiting family.
Bouncers
You might remember that your parents put your siblings in a jumper that hung on the doorway,
or maybe you’ve seen a picture of yourself as a baby in one. Many bouncers can also be called walkers
as well. If you choose to buy a bouncer for your child, make sure that they have full control of their head
before you place them in one. If you can find one that has toys attached, or lights up or plays music,
your baby will love to play with it. Bouncers are used for play time and help to strengthen their leg
muscles so that they can start crawling and walking.
Diaper Bags
Diaper bags can be helpful but also stressful. To help lessen the stressful part, don’t buy a
massive diaper bag; it’ll make it harder to fit into strollers and a hassle to carry. An ideal diaper bag will
have plenty of compartments inside, pockets on the outside, and two compartments on each side of the
outside. If you can find one that has a compartment that is insulated, that would be helpful for bottles.
Some diaper bags will even come with a changing pad, which is great for when you are on the go.