Mom to mom: Preparing for baby

This week on Facebook, we asked people what they wished they had known when they were expecting their first baby. We were amazed by the great tips you guys shared. I have compiled some of them into a list (with some editorial license). Enjoy!

• When it comes to baby gear, you usually do get what you pay for.
• Invest in a great stroller right from the start.
• Don’t buy too much before the baby comes – some things that are registry “standards” are actually of limited use for some parents (swings, wipes warmers and bottle warmers were all mentioned, though several moms were quick to defend the importance of a wipes warmer),
• When you can, try to borrow some of the shorter-lived items from friends and family.
• Cloth diapering isn’t as hard as you think.
• Breastfeeding is harder than it looks – be patient and have the number of a good lactation consultant, just in case.
• Get a great baby carrier (Ergo was mentioned more than once).
• Child-rearing is not a competition. Try not to compare your kid with your friends’ kids.
• Take time to read some sleep advice books before the baby comes and you’re too sleep deprived to read any books. “Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child” is frequently mentioned as a good one.
• Find and join a local moms email list. It’s a great way to meet other new moms.
• Layer a few sheets (with something waterproof in between each one) on your crib mattress to make late-night disasters much more manageable.
• Fill your registry with high quality products and include some natural and organic things – these are the things you’ll use again and again.
• Register for gift cards – it will give you ultimate flexibility.

What are we missing? What are your favorite tips to give your friends when they’re expecting their first babies? Comment below, or visit our Facebook page to see the original conversation. Thanks so much to everybody who contributed.

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