Expecting a baby is an incredibly exciting time, whether it’s your first or you’re already a parent. Baby shopping allows you to indulge in adorable clothes and toys while envisioning your little one’s future. However, the oversaturated baby market and conflicting information on essential items can be overwhelming. With the rise of parent influencers and social media ads, many parents end up with “must-have” items that go unused. The abundance of items and brands makes it challenging to make the right choices.
Victoria Percy, owner of Bump Nursery Boutique in Davenham Village, Northwich, and a mother herself, understands the struggle. She’s compiled a list of 10 must-have items to help expecting parents avoid unnecessary purchases and choose wisely. These items are all available at Bump Nursery Boutique and cater to various needs, from strollers to dummy clips.
1. Doona 2 in 1 Car Seat: A practical and space-saving car seat that doubles as a stroller. The Doona transitions seamlessly and offers additional accessories for convenience.
2. Cybex Cloud T i-size: A popular first-stage infant car seat with a 180-degree rotation feature for easy onboarding and lie-flat functionality outside the car. Compatible with multiple pram chassis for a versatile travel system.
3. Owlet Smart Baby Duo Monitoring System: The Owlet smart sock 3 monitors baby’s heart rate and oxygen levels via an app, providing parents with peace of mind during sleep. The Cam 2 enhances monitoring capabilities.
4. Ultra Compact Travel Stroller: The Cybex Coya stroller is lightweight, newborn-ready, and foldable. Its stylish design and compatibility with hand luggage make it an excellent travel companion.
5. Snuzpod4 Bedside Crib: A market-leading ‘next-to-me’ crib with features like reflux incline, rocking, and a washable mesh liner. Keeps baby close for easy feeding and sleeping.
6. SnuzPouch Baby Sleeping Bag: Baby sleeping bags like the SnuzPouch offer comfort and safety. The design facilitates middle-of-the-night diaper changes without disturbing sleep.
7. Purflo Sleep Tight Baby Bed: An alternative to baby nests, this bed is approved for overnight sleeping and provides undisturbed sleep for babies both day and night.
8. Dummy Clips: Stylish dummy clips help prevent losing pacifiers, especially during travel. The Neutrum Bear dummy clip is recommended for its functionality.
9. Nappy Caddy: A portable caddy with compartments for quick and easy access to diaper-changing essentials. The Neutrum Bear Nappy Caddy offers storage convenience.
10. Convertible Cotbed: Invest in a cotbed that converts to a bed for long-term use. Options like the CuddleCo Clara and SnuzKot Skandi offer style and functionality.
Upcoming Events: Victoria hosts free meet-ups for local parents-to-be at her luxury boutique. The next event on September 3 will feature welcome drinks, a goody bag, and representatives from businesses offering birth education classes, baby massage, photography, and private pregnancy scans. Attendees can explore products and services while connecting with local experts.
Navigating the baby market can be overwhelming, but Victoria’s curated list of must-have items provides valuable guidance for expecting or new parents. Make informed choices and enjoy this exciting journey into parenthood!