Overview & Costs

As new parents, you’re suddenly faced with a multitude of questions: What does your baby really need? What are unnecessary expenses, and what should you definitely not skip? The list of possible baby products can quickly feel overwhelming. I’d like to give you an overview here and share some tips to help you find the right path through the jungle of baby purchases—without putting unnecessary strain on your budget.

First, the good news: babies actually have only a few basic needs. They need love, warmth, food, and of course sleep. So, there are many things you don’t need right away—even if advertising suggests otherwise.

Diapering and Care

1. Changing table or dresser: You don’t necessarily need to buy a big changing table. A changing top on a dresser is more than enough. What matters is that it’s at a comfortable height so you don’t have to bend over unnecessarily.
2. Changing essentials: Diapers, wet wipes, diaper rash cream – these are the basic things you need to start with. A changing basket where everything is neatly stored makes diaper changes much more practical.
3. Baby clothes: onesies, rompers, little hats, and socks. You’ll find that you need more of the smaller sizes than you might think—babies really do grow fast in the first few months.

Sleeping place

1. Crib: A baby crib with an adjustable mattress base is a good choice. Make sure it’s safe and has no sharp edges.
2. Mattress: Invest in a good, firm mattress. A quality mattress is important to ensure your baby can sleep safely and healthily.
3. Sleeping bag: Babies should not sleep with blankets, but in a sleeping bag. This prevents your baby from getting tangled up while sleeping.

Nutrition

1. Breastfeeding or bottle: If you’re not breastfeeding, you’ll need bottles, nipples, and possibly a sterilizer. If you are breastfeeding, a good nursing pillow is enough to support you and your baby during feeding.
2. Nursing bras and pads: If you’re breastfeeding, these items will be very useful to support yourself.

Now let’s move on to the bigger expenses that you’ll want to think through carefully.

Stroller

A stroller is one of the biggest purchases you’ll make for your baby. The selection is huge, and prices vary widely. Make sure the stroller fits well into your lifestyle. Do you need a model for the city or for trips outdoors? Is it lightweight and easy to fold? It’s worth trying out different models and paying attention to safety and quality.

Car seat

A car seat is essential if you plan to travel by car with your baby. This is not an area to cut costs, as safety comes first. Make sure the seat is suitable for your baby’s age and weight, and that it’s easy to install and remove from the car. The best models can be clicked directly onto the stroller with a simple system.

Baby monitor

A baby monitor is especially practical in the first few months, allowing you to keep an eye on your baby while they sleep without having to go into the room all the time. There are simple models as well as ones with video monitoring. Depending on how much you want to spend, you can choose the model that best fits your needs.

There are also a number of things you might want to get, but that aren’t necessarily needed right away:

1. Baby carrier or wrap: A carrier is very practical if you want to keep your baby close to you while having your hands free.
2. Bouncer or swing: Sometimes it helps to put the baby in a bouncer to calm them down. But be careful: these items are often expensive and only used for a short period of time.
3. Toys: In the beginning, simple, soft toys or rattles are enough. Over time, your baby will start showing more interest in interactive things.

The costs for baby products can vary greatly. Here’s a rough overview:

1. Changing dresser or changing table: €50–200
2. Crib: €100–300
3. Stroller: €200–1000
4. Car seat: €100–400
5. Baby monitor: €30–200
6. Clothing and care products: €100–300 to start with

Of course, there are also many things you can buy second-hand. Baby furniture and clothing are often available in very good condition at flea markets or in online groups.