It is claimed a typical family could be up to £400 better off by choosing baby equipment more selectively
A survey involving more than 2,000 parents has found that being more cautious about what you buy will leave you with more cash in your pocket.
Research by Which? found items on the list to “think twice” about include a bumbo seat, nappy stacker and a nappy disposal bin.
Richard Headland Which? Editor said: “When you are expecting a child deciding which baby products to buy is one of many big and costly decisions you need to make.
“Our advice is to choose carefully as there are products that will make life with a newborn that much easier, and those you can probably do without and save money.”
Those asked also said that while items such as baby washing bowls, cot mobiles, baby reins and fabric slings or carriers used to snuggle an infant to its parent’s chest may be desirable, they are not really necessary.
It found the most important item to purchase was a stair gate to prevent falls, followed by an audio baby monitor and steam steriliser kits for bottles.
The list also includes a digital ear thermometer to check for a fever, a baby bouncer for the floor and a changing unit to take the pain out of putting on a nappy.
In May 2015, a study carried out by insurer Aviva, found UK parents spend on average around £35,000 on their children by their fifth birthday.
More than 2,000 mums and dads with children aged 0-5 took part in the survey.
Findings revealed parents spend £7,026 a year, or £586 a month, on essentials and indulgences for their youngsters.
This cost includes everything from basics such as nappies and milk formula, to extras such as toys and baby ballet classes.
Louise Colley, protection director for Aviva says: “As every parent knows having children can be an expensive business, but it’s incredible to see how this stacks up over the years.
“This is why it’s so important for parents to consider how they might cover the cost of raising a child if they were to unexpectedly lose an income through illness or even worse, bereavement.”
The survey also found one in five parents said that they felt compelled to spend money on their child in order to keep up with other mums and dads.
More than a third of those questioned said that they knew parents who boasted about how much they had spent on their children.
