Having a Baby
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For the Baby...
Even if you're not pregnant, shopping for baby items can still be fun; you can't help but pick up a pair of tiny shoes and coo, and you're pretty sure those stateart strollers double as rocket launchers. But before you go off and buy every baby item in sight, you should first look at what yours is going to need.
'''Clothes'''
Babies grow fast: in a few months, they'll grow out of that sweet matching set you bought. For that reason, it may not be a good idea to buy a lot of clothing or expensive pieces, no matter how darling and
baby clothes that are:
* '''Durable''': The last thing you want from an article of clothing is for it to fall apart in the wash or worse, when your child is wearing it.
* '''Comfortable''': Look for items that are soft and of the right size. If babies are not comfortable, they will let you know. By crying. A lot.
* '''Easy to Clean''': Infants and messes go hand in hand, so look for items that are easy to clean.
* '''Easy to Put on and Take off''': Changing a baby who is crying and squirming around can seem like a battle. Save yourself the struggle by making sure everything is easy to put on and take off.
'''Diaper Bags'''
For the next few years of your child's life,
diaper bags will be your constant.
* Look for a diaper bag made in a material that you can easily clean, like vinyl or leather. If you prefer cloth, make sure there is also a plastic covering that you can wipe down. This advice also goes for any inner linings.
* Diaper bags are available in a number of different styles, including messenger bags, backpacks, and totes. When making a purchase, consider how long you plan on carrying the bag each day, and how much you will need the use of your arms.
* Look for a
carrier is comfortable to wear and distributes weights evenly.
* The carrier should keep the baby held high and close to your body.
* Find one that accommodates a variety of weights and sizes, for both parent and child. This saves on money.
* Make sure it allows your baby to sleep easily.
'''Car Seats'''
When choosing car seats, you have the choice between infant and infant-toddler models.
When looking for a
car seat, here are some things to consider.
* Look for one with an easy installationyou don't want a car seat that you need a Ph.D to install. Proper installation is ''key'' for a safe baby.
* Look for a
Strollers eliminate that problem.
Here are some
considerations for buying a stroller:
* Check for stability. Will the stroller remain upright with a diaper bag hung on the handles?
* A fivepoint point harness is an okay second choice, but not recommended if you plan on frequent, longer trips out.
* Make sure the handle height is comfortable for you. Taller parents should look for strollers with adjustable handles.
* Choose a stroller that turns corners easily,
* Features: Do you need a basket underneath, rain hoods, or a food and drink tray?
'''Cribs'''
Newborns can sleep up to 16 hours a day, so make sure they are comfortable by choosing the right
crib.
* Look for the Juvenile Products Manufacturing Association certificate or JPMA. This means that the bed was tested for quality and safety.
* Bars should be no more than 2-3/8 inches apart so that your baby's head doesn't slip through or get stuck.
* Corner posts, if your crib has them, should be no higher than 1/16 of an inch (unless they are over 16 inches high to support a canopy). Any higher than this and clothing can catch on them and injure or choke an infant.
* Most cribs let you adjust the
mattress height by raising or lowering the mattress support. When your child starts sitting up, it's time to lower the mattress so he or she can't climb or fall out of the crib. The interior should also snugly accommodate a standard crib mattress. If you can fit two fingers between the side of the mattress and the crib, the mattress is too small and should be changed. Babies can get trapped in that space.
* Make sure it is stableno wobbles or rattles.
'''Cloth Diapers vs. Disposable Diapers'''
You'll be surprised by how much your baby needs his or her
diaper to be changed. They're so small...how can they possibly need a changing that often?
There are two types of diapers available. The widely used
cloth diaper.
'''Baby Monitors'''
You can't be with your baby at all times, but luckily,
monitors allow you to keep watch over your child while you're in a different room.
* Smaller models allow you to carry them around the house easily.
* Look for a monitor with a low-battery indicator. If the battery runs out, you may not be able to hear your baby.
* Sound-activated lights are great for when you are vacuuming or calming another child.
* Double or multiple receivers are useful: you can leave one in your room and then keep one with you as you move around the house or go outside. Some brands let you purchase additional receivers.
* If you live in a highly populated area, look for monitors with a low bandwidth (40 megahertz). High-end models with up to 900 megahertz offer better clarity, but will suffer from interference from portable phones, cell phones, or other monitors.
'''Feeding Time'''
Newborns will consume little but breast milk for the first few months of their lives. As they grow, they will be slowly introduced to different types of food. Let
feeding time begin!
'''Bath Time'''
Special care must be taken when bathing infants. The same products you use will most likely be too harsh for Baby's
sensitive skin, and traditional tubs are far too big.
Babyproofing Your Home
Once your baby is old enough to sit up and crawl, he or she will seem to get into every nook and cranny and find the unfindable. For that reason, you need to make sure that your home is ready
babyproofed.
Pregnancy Books
First-time mothers, especially, often clamor for advice on how to raise their babies. These books come highly recommended.
Related Guides
*
Babies and Toddlers
*
Babies and Toddlers Resource Guide
*
Baby and Child Care: Diaper Care
*
Baby Bags and Carriers
*
Baby Bedding and Linens
*
Baby Health and Hygiene
*
Baby Nursing and Feeding
*
Babyproofing and Home Safety
*
Car Seats
*
Infant and Toddler Clothing
*
Strollers
