Newborns don’t come with a manual but there are certain things you need at home to prepare for their arrival. The shopping list is lengthy, but not every item marketed to new parents is essential. Many products seem useful but quickly end up gathering dust. Here are six unnecessary baby products you can skip.
1. Wipe Warmers
Warm wipes may seem like a nice touch, but they’re not essential. Consider the practicality: Do you really use them? How much time does it take to warm them up? Are the warmers portable? Babies adapt easily to room-temperature wipes. Prioritize choosing high-quality wipes that are gentle on your baby’s delicate skin rather than having something warmed up.
2. Fancy Baby Shoes
Shoes aren’t really a necessity for newborns. Think about it, infants don’t walk. Most don’t start crawling until somewhere between seven and 12 months old. They don’t really need anything other than socks or soft booties on their feet. Expensive shoes are purely for show and are generally uncomfortable. Save your money for when your child starts walking.
3. Over-the-Top Diaper Bags
While a designer diaper bag may be tempting, it’s an unnecessary expense for most parents. A functional and durable bag with compartments for organization is sufficient for carrying baby essentials. Just a bookbag will do, honestly. Prioritize practicality and ease of cleaning over high-end brands.
4. Newborn-Sized Outfits
Do not go crazy with newborn-sized clothes. I know it seems like a good idea, and everything you see is adorable. However, not all babies are born small enough for that size. Some babies are born bigger and may require 0-3 months clothes immediately. Additionally, babies outgrow newborn clothes fast. Stock up on larger sizes instead to ensure longer use. Opt for versatile clothing that can adapt to your baby’s rapid growt.
5. Specialized Bottle Sterilizers
You don’t need a fancy bottle warmer. I know because I purchased two and have used them exactly zero times. For most people, a pot of boiling water works just as well as expensive sterilizers. You can even get the multiuse microwave-safe sterilizer bags. Both options are simple and cost-effective methods and will be much more useful than a bottle warmer for most parents.
6. Infant Bathtubs
While cute, infant tubs are quickly outgrown and are an unnecessary baby product. Some people prefer to use a sink or an adaptable bath seat because they are more practical. They also have adjustable bathtubs that grow with the baby. Choose items that grow with your baby to save money.
Don’t Go Overboard
When shopping for a newborn, it’s easy to go overboard on unnecessary baby products. Focus on what truly adds value and practicality. Remember that just because something looks cool, doesn’t mean it’s practical or going to get a lot of use. By skipping these six products, you’ll save money and reduce clutter in your home.