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There is a huge choice when it comes to baby equipment. bump2school aims to give you a few basic tips on how to make the right choices for you.

Pushchair

Choosing a pushchair is a daunting task as there are so many different types and features you never even thought possible.  Ask friends and family even people in the street what they would recommend. Everyone has different lifestyles, so ask yourself a few basic questions:

Where will you use it most?  Around the shops you want something that is easy to manoeuvre and not too bulky.  For long frequent walks it is important that you feel as comfortable as your baby.

Will it fit in the boot?  Remember you want to be able to fit you, baby and your shopping in the car.

Do you want a separate carry cot for your young baby?  Some carry cots can be used for sleeping, check if you need a different mattress

Finally, remember to buy a rain cover and suitable sun protection for the pushchair. Parasols have to be moved around depending on the position of the sun, so consider buying a shade-a-babe.

Sleep

If you have a big or very active baby, you probably won’t be able to use a moses basket for very long.  You can consider hiring one or if you borrow a moses basket from a friend, then remember that you should buy a new mattress.

A newborn baby will look very lost in a full size cot, so think about getting a crib for when they are young.  Alternatively you can buy cot inserts for smaller babies.  

Car

You will need a car seat to take baby home.  The main point to consider is that not all cars can accommodate isofix seats.  So if you are likely to change your car or swap the seat between cars, then go for a non isofix seat.

Babies can get bored sitting in their car seat.  Fix some pictures to the back of the seat for them to look at. Alternatively, you can buy ‘mobiles’ that fix to the seat.

Don’t forget that winter sun can be very bright, so fit sun shades on the rear screen and side window.

Practice putting your pushchair up and down before baby is born. There is nothing worse than struggling with a pushchair in a car park with a screaming baby in the car.