Does it bother anyone else?

[tauntedoctopus]

Look, I know babies are the world's most expensive alarm clock and it only gets worse as they get older, but are there any FTMs totally disturbed by the new baby checklist they give you when you register for your babyshower? When I was born my mother breastfed me, I wore hand me down baby clothes, and I slept in a laundry basket on my parents dresser for the first 6 months of my life. I am alive, healthy, and well adjusted... So, I just can't shake the "You must spend thousands and thousands of dollars in order to give your baby the best start and be a good parent" as the glaring example of American capitalism that it is. Does anyone feel the same?

[tauntedoctopus]

The excessive "must haves" irk me. Like the wipe warmer. As parents the only payback we get for the sleepless nights is that fleeting look of shock as that ice cold wipe touches that tiny butt.

[addysmama04]

My first had all used stuff. My mom was a garage sale junky. She had a counter/cabinet left over from a remodel and she turned it into a changing table. Now on my 2nd I don't see much point in all the excessive must haves. Buy used..save the difference.

[grizzlace]

I have always appreciated the second-hand gifts from friends and family. My aunts and uncles slept in dresser drawers when they were babies. They are physically healthy. My opinion is only spend money on the things that are needed to be new. I have even used used bottles after making sure that their condition was ok. Spare whatever expense you can...it doesn't hurt to be thrifty.

[Nov7thmommy]

I'm with u there, money is kind of tight in my house right now, so is not easy for us, but thank God my mom goes to a lot of yard sales, she got a bunch of stuff for the baby in good condition, the only thing new is the stroller and I'm gonna buy it from Walmart, I'm gonna buy the urbini cause is cheap and it does the work

[Merwin1987]

Yes!! It's gotten a bit ridiculous. I think the only thing we got new was a carseat, simply because of the safety. As far as clothes go, they grow out of them so fast that getting them used just makes sense. They've barely been worn!
We're not broke or anything, but it just seemed silly to throw so much money at something that could be avoided.
I think you are totally right. Craigslist and Ebay are a pregnant gals best friends :)