Don't get stuck with a pramful of junkNew Which? guide for your baby and toddler needs

27 April 2007

New parents shouldn't be fooled into thinking they need a vast array of items for their new baby, according to a new Which? essential guide.

Baby and Toddler Essentials – which is published on 4 May – points out that there are only a handful of basics required from day one.

These include nappies, a few changes of clothes, a suitable place for the baby to sleep, possibly feeding equipment and, if travelling by car, a child car seat.

However, modern pressures – and marketing techniques - have resulted in an increasing number of baby ‘must-haves’.

Automated cradles

Baby and Toddler Essentials identifies several less-than-essential items including automated cradles, co-ordinated pushchair accessories, ‘gift pack’ sets of clothes for newborns, automatic baby swings and co-ordinated nursery furnishings.

Anne Smith, author of Baby and Toddler Essentials, says: ‘It’s easy to get carried away when becoming a parent, but beware – you could end up with a pramful of junk.

'There are so many different types of product available for babies and toddlers, but this guide gives the low-down on what you really need and what you can safely glide the pushchair past.’

Baby and Toddler Essentials  can be ordered on 01903 828557 (£10.99, p&p free), via our books website or bought from bookshops.