Buying for baby

You don't need to spend a fortune on buying for your baby, you can save by borrowing, hiring and buying second-hand. Following is a list of some of the main items you will need.

Cot or cradle
If you wish to keep your baby in your room with you a bassinette or cradle can be useful for the first 12 weeks or so. Following that, baby will need to be moved into a cot, so if you are looking to save money a cradle is something worth borrowing, or doing without. If you are not planning on using a bassinette, then look for a cot with an adjustable base height to save your back while baby is smaller. Consider a cot that can be converted into a bed. For information on cot safety go to the CHOICE website

Cot bedding
Whether for a cradle or cot, bumpers and pillows are a safety hazard. You'll need:
- a clean, firm well-fitting mattress,
- a waterproof sheet or mattress protector,
- two sets of sheets, flannelette or cotton,
- depending on time of year  a sleeping bag for cold weather, a muslin wrap for hot weather.

Change table
Some parents swear by these, others are happier using a bed or the floor. Anything up high needs a safety harness. Some change tables have compartments underneath to store nappies, wipes/washcloths. Others fit over a playpen or cot. One very important consideration -  you need to ensure that whichever option you choose will not strain your back. If you buy a change table that can be converted into a chest of drawers (eg. the change top can be removed) your baby can use this for years to come.

Car restraint
You are required by law to use a car safety restraint for your baby and the restraint must meet the Australian Standard. Have the restraint  fitted to your car before the birth of your baby. There are approved child restraint checking stations that can ensure that the fitting is correct.. You can hire or buy the restraint. The motoring organisation, or Kidsafe in your state has more information. Continued...