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Expecting to Pay for Baby Needs

What You Need to Know About Baby Gear Costs

By Deborah Ng

Diaper Bags – Diaper bags have evolved. No longer are they unattractive plastic bags with nursery rhyme characters imprinted on the front. Now they come in attractive styles resembling backpacks and messenger bags. They're a bit more expensive as well. Expect to pay about $40 for a sturdy but stylish model complete with numerous pockets and a changing pad.

How can you tell which items are most necessary? Denise Fields, author of Baby Bargains (Windsor Peak Press, 2005), recommends enlisting the aid of those who know best – other moms. "Take an experienced mom with you to the baby store to register," Fields says. "She can help sort out what you need from what is fluff."

How much you will spend also depends on your needs. Some parents want the highchair that comes complete with toys and a removable dishwasher-safe eating tray. Others just want a model that's safe without too many "extras." Whatever model you choose, be sure you don't enter into any decision blindly. Hall recommends research. "The only real way to tell you're not getting ripped off is simple diligence – to research each major purchase before you plunk down the cash," she says.

The iParenting Media Awards program (www.iparentingmediaawards.com) is a great place to start when researching baby gear. The program evaluates products ranging from strollers to highchairs and toys to carseats with the help of parents and experts around the country, and only the best products earn the award. Log on every three months to see the latest bunch of award-winning products for families.

Want to see more?

• For a Rainy Day and Beyond: Start Saving Before Baby Arrives
• The Perfect Room: 10 Essential Items Every Nursery Needs
• Room for Baby to Grow: Creating a Nursery with Lasting Appeal
• Check out our Article Library.
• Talk about it!

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