For most people, shopping for baby products and clothes is a lot of fun. Who wouldn’t gush over the tiniest shoes and outfits? However, babies require more than just clothes, such as diapers and food among other things, and after a while it all begins to add up to a small fortune. If you want to spare your wallet and make sure your baby is only getting the essentials, you’ll want to make a note of the following items your new baby must have.

The first step to knowing what baby products are necessary and what aren’t is to be practical. Your newborn won’t be able to do a whole lot on his/her own yet and while you may want to have a nursery completely outfitted with the best toys, sheets and wallpaper, these things aren’t actually contributing to your baby’s health or well being. For now skip all of the materialistic factors and focus on what your baby actually needs, not what you want. The more practical you are, the less you’ll have to buy, which means the more money you can keep in your pocket. For new mothers that are still pregnant, your baby shower will be the time to make sure your baby registry has all the frilly items you don’t want to spend money on. Your dollars should go towards items that will directly benefit your little one.

In general, the following items are a must for your newborn:

·    Crib and bedding

·    Car seat

·    Clothes, shoes and socks

·    Diapers

·    Food/formula

·    Baby carrier

·    Stroller

You don’t have to get the most expensive version of these items, either. Many times you can find very affordable baby products if you shop around and compare prices. If you’re really on a budget, get your baby products second-hand. Have friends or family members with children? Then ask them if they have any baby products they no longer need or use - this will be the case if their children are older. You can get a crib, baby carrier, toys, clothes, stroller or other baby items for little to no money and if they are coming from a friend or relative, chances are they will gladly donate the items to you. That’s a lot of money saved!

Too many parents make the mistake of buying baby products just for the sheer joy of buying them instead of being realistic about what they are buying and why. Whenever possible, try to find more affordable alternatives to baby products. The most expensive product that plays a large role in your baby’s life is diapers. Because diapers are used frequently, you may want to look into cloth diapers, which can be reused over and over. All you have to do is toss them into the washing machine and you’ll have saved a load of money each month. Baby food can be pretty pricy, too, so instead of filling your shopping cart with top name brand baby food, learn how to buy fresh ingredients and make your own baby food. DIY moms love being able to create their little one’s meals from scratch. It’s more cost effective and a great way to monitor exactly what your baby is eating.

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