Short, practical guides to help you choose. They are general information, not medical advice. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and consult your pediatrician for health or feeding questions.
Choosing diapers
- Pick the size by your baby's weight, not age, using the brand's chart.
- Tape-style diapers suit newborns; pant-style suit active crawlers and toddlers.
- If you see leaks around the legs or red marks at the waist, try another size.
- Change diapers regularly and clean the skin gently at each change.
Choosing feeding bottles and teats
- Materials: plastic is light, silicone is soft, glass is heavy and breakable but easy to keep odour-free.
- Match the teat flow to your baby's age and feeding pace, and change teats when they show wear.
- Clean and sterilise as the manufacturer advises.
Choosing a breast pump
- Decide how and where you will pump: at home, at work or on the move.
- Comfort depends on a good flange fit. A lactation consultant can help you check sizing.
- Check that spare parts, such as valves and flanges, are easy to get.
Baby skincare basics
- Look for gentle, fragrance-free products for newborn skin and read the ingredient list.
- Try a small patch first when starting any new product.
- If your baby's skin is persistently red, rough or unwell, see a doctor instead of trying more products.
School-day essentials
- Lunch boxes: check the capacity and compartments against what your child eats, and whether it fits their bag.
- Drink bottles: insulated steel keeps drinks cool; lightweight plastic suits younger children. Choose leak-proof lids and check they are easy for small hands to open.
- Label everything with your child's name.