Baby Furniture & Gear
What to Look For and When to Shop
Furniture
Let’s talk about cribs. Many manufacturers offer what we call lifetime cribs; they convert into a toddler, day bed and a full size bed. These cribs are ideal if you plan to keep them for many years. If you are not wild about converting a crib to a full size bed, then you can go with a traditional crib. Most traditional cribs in the market will convert to a toddler bed or a day bed only. Most parents nowadays decide to invest one time on a convertible crib.
Changing station or dresser? This is a little more difficult; the new styles of changing stations are not the traditional type. A lot of parents now are going with dressers instead of changing stations. Why? A dresser, when used with a changing pad can function as a changing station for baby, and once you are out of that stage, as a dresser. A dresser/changer can easily run between $400-800 dollars; it all depends on the size of the dresser and drawer space. A lot of parents start with a crib and a dresser/changer and add pieces as time goes by. This will depend on the space available in baby’s room.
When do you order? The number one advice is to plan ahead. It is important to start looking at furniture as soon as you can and start narrowing down your choices. All big purchases including furniture, glider and other large items should be made 16+ weeks out from your baby’s due date; this will allow plenty of time in case something needs to be ordered. How to avoid impulse buying? Do not wait until the last minute! This is where many first time parents make a huge mistake and end up buying on impulse, getting stuck with items they don’t want.
Mattresses
A baby mattress is the single most important item in your nursery. It has been proven that babies spend 70 percent of their time sleeping on their crib mattress and that is why getting the best mattress is so important. No idea what to look for? Here are some tips.
First time parents should look for a waterproof mattress. Next, is a firm surface. Pediatricians recommend foam because it conforms to a baby’s shape and helps reduce the risk of SIDS. If foam is not your thing, some mattresses are made with springs as well. Doctors recommend a minimum of 150 coils for a baby mattress. If you meet the minimum count you will be providing a firmer surface for your baby to sleep on. A mattress with a hypoallergenic layer is important especially if your family suffers from allergies; this will prevent allergens within the mattress.
What if you want an organic mattress? We know of several companies in the market that make excellent mattresses and recommend organic cotton mattresses that use silica and not harmful chemicals to meet flammability standards.
How to avoid impulse buying? Never go with big box stores’ lowest priced mattresses. Usually these mattresses run under $60 and even though it is a good price, you get what you pay for. Some of these mattresses offer a total count of 50 coils (not recommended for baby’s back support) and are filled inside with cardboard in between foam layers. Always plan to spend a little bit more on a baby mattress. It is the most important thing your baby will be in contact with during long periods of time.
Strollers
You can narrow down choices by asking yourself how you are going to use it. Do you want to jog/walk or simply stroll at the mall? Do you want a single or convertible stroller? You can bet there is a stroller out there that meets all your needs.
If your plan is to jog/walk, you should look into jogging strollers. Remember a true jogger stroller must have a hand break or wrist strap! Jogging/walking strollers usually have inflatable tires as well, which will last longer than plastic wheels. If you want to stroll with it at the mall, a lightweight stroller is what you’ll need. Usually this type of stroller will weigh between 12-15 lbs. and can hold a maximum of 45-50 lbs. These types of strollers are usually not car seat compatible but there are some manufacturers out in the market that include this feature.
Single or convertible strollers? Customers wanting to make an investment and use it in the future for a second baby usually buy these strollers. Convertible strollers can run between $650-$1200 dollars by the time you have added everything you need. So check with your local store for the one that fits your needs.
How to avoid impulse buying? Never buy before trying it out first! This can be solved easily; we recommend visiting your local baby specialty store. The associates in these types of stores have been trained in strollers and know not only what might fit in your car, but also what the best brands are. They will even let you try strollers in your car to see which one fits better and show you all the tricks as well!
We know first time parents have a lot on their minds and getting ready for baby is all about planning ahead! Research and go to the store prepared, don’t let a sales person fool you into getting something you don’t want or need. Remember it is all about you and the beautiful baby that is on the way.