For Which?

The Which? Best Buys go to

www.which.co.uk

guide to
choosing the
best for your
new baby
In the weeks before your baby is born,
you'll be busy stocking up on the nursery
and baby equipment for those first days

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a
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 Welcome
from Which?
and NCT
T
he internet is littered with reviews of baby
products, and advice about pregnancy and
babies. While the views of other parents and
Practical
parents-to-be will always be helpful, they don’t
parenting
take the place of safety testing or support from experts.
information
Which? and NCT have both been around for more than and support
50 years, and both are widely trusted and respected. www.nct.org.uk
Which? is the definitive source for reviews of baby
products, not only because of our stringent testing but
because we consider every aspect of a product. How
easy is this car seat to fit? Is that pushchair a nightmare
to fold? We test all of this so you know a Best Buy really is Useful
going to make life easier. information
NCT is here to support parents. It gives them accurate, and advice
impartial information so that they can decide what’s best
for their family, and it introduces them to a network of
local parents to gain practical and emotional support.
NCT is the UK’s largest parenting charity, and campaigns
as the voice for parents on the issues they care about.
There’s no baby manual, but there are experts who

Independent
can help. This guide is just a fraction of the wealth
of information that Which? and NCT offer. And the

unbiased
underlined text in the guide means you can click through
to see more.
Parents want the best for their babies, but they also

a d v i
deserve the best support for themselves. This guide will

c
Actions

e
show you how to get both.

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Natalie Hitchins

for parent
which.co.uk
Home editor, Which? and Which.co.uk

s NCT/WHICH? 2
 New parent directory
As the birth of your baby gets closer, you’ll find
yourself stocking up on essential baby equipment Info
Best and information on life as a parent you can
Buy trust

nct information
18 Your guide to pregnancy and birth
Which? advice Practical
parenting
4 Baby essentials 20 Getting support when pregnant information
and support
5 Buying a child car seat 21 Working through it when pregnant www.nct.org.uk

8 Fitting a child car seat 22 Space invaders

9 Buying a pushchair 23 Breastfeeding Useful

information
and advice
12 Buying a sling or baby carrier 24 Sweet dreams

13 Buying a high chair

14 Buying a cot

15 Baby monitors and stair gates

16 Saving for children

17 What you can get free Actions

Print
25 What to pack for your baby’s birth which.co.uk

NCT/WHICH? 3
 Baby essentials
This checklist will help sort the basics you’ll want
from day one from the ‘nice-to-have’ equipment 7 Towel
Look for a soft towel just for your baby’s use.
Advice
you can
trust
8 Detergent for washing clothes
You'll need to choose a washing detergent
suitable for your baby’s sensitive skin.
Useful
9 Changing mat
Nappy changing mats are padded, with
slightly raised sides to prevent your baby
equipment
worth
considering
wriggling off. A changing table lets you change • baby monitor – see
a nappy comfortably at waist height, but the floor our guide to buying
monitors
is good, too.
• changing bag
• small nail
10 Cotton wool
Cotton wool is useful for cleaning your
baby while they’re using nappies.
clippers
• reclined cradle
• baby bath or
bath supports
Baby equipment basics from day one 11 Muslin cloths and bibs
These can protect your baby’s clothes
(but a washing-up
bowl in the sink or the

1 4
Child car seat Clothing from spillages and accidents. A muslin over the main bath will do fine)
A Group 0+ car seat if you’re travelling with Be prepared from day one with: four to six shoulder will also protect your clothes if you're
your baby in any car, including coming home from sleepsuits and bodysuits; two cardigans; two hats; winding your baby after feeding.
hospital if you give birth there. See our guide to and four pairs of socks. Take a look at our advice
buying a child car seat for more advice. on additional clothes for more information.
12 Scratch mittens
The skin of new babies can be very sensitive www.nct.org.uk

2 Moses basket, crib, cradle

You might want to choose one of these for
your baby to sleep in. Also see our advice on
5 Nappies
The average baby goes through around 5,000
nappies. Check out the different types in our guide
and prone to rashes, and their fingernails are quite
hard. Scratch mittens are thin cotton mittens that
help prevent your baby from damaging his or her
Find your local
NCT Nearly New Sale
and buy or sell everything
from prams and toys to
buying a cot and NCT’s information on sleeping. to choosing nappies. skin by scratching.
changing mats and clothes.
• Moses basket
• Crib or cradle
• Cot 6 Pram or pushchair suitable from birth
Choose between a buggy, travel system 13 Breast pads
Choose between washable, disposable and
(pushchair with child car seat) or all-terrain stroller even thermal breast pads – you’ll probably use Actions
3 Mattresses and bedding
You’ll want a suitable mattress and bedding.
A shawl or blanket is handy, too. Check out our
that's suitable from birth. Which? members can
access pushchair reviews, and our guide will help
you pick the right model.
them even if you’re not breast-feeding
your baby.
Also see page 23 for information from NCT
Print
which.co.uk
advice on baby bedding and buying a mattress. about breastfeeding.

NCT/WHICH? 4
 Buying a child car seat
As a first-time parent, the amount of ‘stuff’ you need to buy is daunting. And Advice
you may find you buy items that aren’t quite right for your newborn. One thing you can
I wasn’t prepared to leave to trial and error, though, was a car seat – I wanted trust
to know which one would keep my little lad safest. The internet’s full of user
reviews of child seats – and these offer some handy info – but other parents
don’t tend to know what the seat’s like in a crash.
That’s where Which? comes in. We’re the only UK body to put child seats
through head-to-head crash tests. We measure safety in a frontal and side- For more
on crash (a much tougher test than manufacturers have to pass by law), and information
assess how easy seats are to fit and use. on buying child
car seats see
Richard’s video
Richard Headland, buying guide
Editor, Which? magazine

There are hundreds of child Weight categories

car seats, carrycots and booster
seats on the market, but there Seat group Weight range Approximate
are major differences in the age range
protection offered by the best Group 0 0–10kg From birth to about
and worst. So how do you know (0–22lb) 11 months (boys) or
which type to choose? This guide 14 months (girls)
helps you work out which sort Group 0+ 0–13kg From birth to
of car seat your child needs, and (0–29lb) about 15 months
explains the differences. Group 1 9–18kg About 9 months
(20–40lb) to 4½ years
Child car seats Group 2 15–25kg About 3 years
Weight groups Actions
(33lb–3st 13lb) to 7 years
When buying a child car seat, the first thing to
remember is that your child’s weight is a more Print
Group 3 22–36kg About 6 years
important factor than his or her age. This table (3st 7lb–5st 9lb) to 12 years
shows the five main weight groups for child car which.co.uk

NCT/WHICH? 5
 Buying a child car seat
seats, though some seats are certified across
two groups, for example Group 2/3.
It’s safest to buy specific child car seats to suit
your child’s weight as they grow, rather than
one that covers the whole weight range. Try
to keep your child in the lower-group child
car seat for as long as you can, but make sure
you don’t leave it until your child is over the
car seat’s weight limit before changing. This
means you should use a Group 0+ baby car
seat as long as possible – up to at least 10kg,
preferably as close to 13kg as possible – then
consider changing to a Group 1 child car seat,
which your child will use until they are at least
15kg, and ideally until they weigh 18kg. At 15kg
(about 3 to 4 years old), think about changing
to a Group 2/3 seat, which will suit the child all
the way up to age 12, when they should use the
adult seatbelt.
Your child will have outgrown
the child car seat if his or her
eyes are level with the top of
the seat
Advice
you can
trust
Child car
seat reviews
On Which.co.uk,
we’ve got reviews
of over 100 child car
seats, including over
20 Best Buys, and
over 5 Don’t Buy
seats. The Don’t Buys
Child car seats and heights If you know which child car seats you’re failed our stringent
In most cases, the child will reach the weight limit interested in, try them in your car with tests.
of a child car seat before becoming too tall for it. your child before you buy. If your child isn’t You’ll also find a
However, your child will have outgrown the child born yet, try the seat in your car anyway. Don’t video of our crash
car seat if his or her eyes are level with the top of wait until the baby is born; if you’re travelling testing, which
the seat. If they’re below the thresholds suggested home by car, most hospitals won’t discharge will show you the
above, seek advice from a qualified child car you unless you have a child car seat. huge difference in
seat expert (contact your local authority’s road Take advice from a qualified adviser. protection between
safety office to find out who this is in your area). In Most trained child-car-seat retailers have a Best Buy and a
extreme cases they may advise you to seek advice advisers on hand to help – a good one will Don’t Buy.
from a doctor or paediatrician. find seats that suit the car or cars you’ll be
using it in, and show you how to install it
Tips on choosing a child car seat properly. Some local authorities (including
Make a list of the cars you might use the child Bromley and Essex), have special centres
car seat in, for example, friends’ or grandparents’, where you can seek advice and try out seats.
as well as your own. Never buy a second-hand child car seat –
Find out whether the child car seat will it could have been in a crash, which will have Actions
fit in the cars you’ll be using – you can check weakened it.
with the seat manufacturer and the carmaker Once you’ve chosen a child car seat, check Print
for compatibility. out our advice on how to fit it.
which.co.uk
NCT/WHICH? 6
 Buying a child car seat
Car carrycots for infants
Which? doesn’t generally recommend carrycots
and lie-flat child car seats as tests show that,
with few exceptions, they don’t protect children
adequately.
If you already own one, we suggest you buy an
alternative Group 0+ child car seat for use in the
car. Some of the best cost as little as £75.
If you have a carrycot for your baby and there’s
nothing else you can use, however, it’s better than
nothing at all. Place it across the back seat, as close
to the middle as you can. This may use up more
space, but it means the baby is less vulnerable in a
crash. Place the baby’s head as
far from the door as possible to try to avoid
contact with the door in a crash.
You should keep travel times to a minimum
for all newborns.
Travel system car seats
Some child car seats – particularly Group 0 and
Group 0+ – can be removed from the car and
placed in a travel system. A travel system pushchair Which? puts seats through Advice
can be used with a compatible car seat and/or
carrycot that’s designed to attach to the pushchair.
rigorous tests, and members you can
Travel system child car seats let you transfer your can see how safe each seat is. trust
baby between car, pushchair and home easily,
which is great if you spend a lot of time on the
move. But be aware that babies should not spend
long periods of time in child car seats.
Travel systems appear to be a bargain because
they’re flexible, but the travel system pushchairs
are often large and heavy and you
need space to store the parts you're
not using. Babies will also outgrow
the child car seat in around 12–15
months, but you can still use the
travel system as a pushchair.
Multiple and booster seats
All child car seats are categorised
according to the child's weight
(see page five), with some seats Best
spanning different groups. At 15kg
(3 to 4 years old), for example, Buy
you can change to a Group 2/3 seat, which should
suit the child up to age 12. Generally, however, car
seats designed to span more than two groups are a
compromise in at least one weight group and, in
our reviews of 48 different models, Which? found
only one Group 1/2/3 seat worth recommending.
Backless booster seats raise the child’s body to
a height suitable for use with the adult seatbelt,
and satisfy the legal requirement for children up
DON’T
to 4ft 6in. They’re also cheap (about £20–£30).
However, booster cushions are not as safe as Group
Buy
DON’T Actions
3 child seats with a full length back and ‘wings’,
which provide extra protection for the head and
chest in a side-impact crash.
Buy Print
which.co.uk
NCT/WHICH? 7
 Fitting a child car seat
Examine the child car seat and read the instructions thoroughly
before taking it to your car. Always follow the manufacturer’s
instructions and keep them with the seat for future reference.
Even a Which? Best Buy child car seat might not
fit safely in your car, so have at least one go at
installing the child car seat, preferably with the
help of an expert from the shop, before you buy.
Isofix car
seats can be
secured without
seatbelts
Isofix car seat fittings
If you have a relatively new car (generally since
2002), it’s likely to have Isofix mounting points.
This is the standard system for new cars and seat
makers, designed to make installing your child
seat easy. Many parents worry about fitting their
car seat correctly, but with Isofix you just ‘plug
in’ a compatible seat to mounting points in the
car – rather than fiddling with seatbelts. Isofix is
also more secure than the seatbelt method, so
your child should be better protected in a crash.
Most cars have two fixing points, but some now
have three, where the third (top) tether attaches
to a mount behind the rear seat to stop it tipping
forwards in an accident. The three-point fixing
should work even better than a two-point fixing,
because it holds the child car seat more securely.
However, the two-point fixing is still generally
much better than using seatbelts. So, if you're
Which? has an online guide Advice
to fitting a car seat properly. you can
trust
buying a new car, make sure it comes with Isofix
mountings – sometimes they’re a ‘no-cost’ option.
Trying out the seat
When you first take the child car seat to your
car, check that it fits neatly with the shape of the
interior. For some seats, you may need to remove
the car’s head restraint. If you're using it in more
than one car, check it with each of them.
In the front seat, some cars let you to disable the
airbag – it won’t deploy so it’s safe to install a rear-
facing child car seat. Never fit a rear-facing child
car seat in front of an active airbag. If it goes off, the Go to our
force could kill your child. Ensure you activate the Which?
airbag again for an adult passenger. Some car seat installation
makers say you should never place forward-facing guide to find
child car seats on a front seat with an active front
airbag; others say it’s safe. We’re not aware of any
out about
evidence to suggest it really is dangerous. common
However, we advise that generally the back Using a seatbelt with a car seat problems in
seat is safest for children so, if Check the seatbelt is long enough to secure the fitting child
possible, fit a child car seat in car seat and ensure you can feed the belt through
the rear of your car. the slits in the car seat without any obstructions.
car seats.
If you prefer to have the It should be easy to adjust and secure the seat’s
child in the front, always harness, and the seat should leave enough space
keep the passenger seat for your child to stretch their legs.
as far back as you can. The child car seat should hardly move forwards
Most importantly, never or sideways if you push it. When you open the
modify the child car seat buckle of the adult belt, the car seat should spring
in any way. upwards slightly. Actions
Which? members Only the seatbelt webbing, not the buckle,
can read reviews of should touch the car seat’s frame. Otherwise, Print
more than 100 child pressure on the buckle could make it open. Check
car seats. the car seat’s fitting booklet for help. which.co.uk
NCT/WHICH? 8
 Buying a pushchair
When it comes to pushchairs, small
babies have different needs from
older babies and toddlers. Here’s our
shopping checklist.
Fully reclining New babies need the back
support that only fully reclining pushchairs can
give. Check the pushchair’s back reclines to more
than 150°.
Sitting-up Babies shouldn’t be in a pushchair
that doesn’t recline fully until they’re six months
or so (i.e. until they can sit up).
Three-wheel pushchairs You shouldn’t use
a three-wheeler pushchair over rough ground
until your baby is about six months old – babies’
necks aren’t strong enough to take the strain of a
bouncing head.
Sleeping in a pushchair Babies should sleep
on a firm horizontal base so, if you’re expecting
There are people who spend hundreds of pounds on a pushchair that turns Advice
out to be too big for their car boot. Then there are people who buy a Phil & Ted’s you can
tandem (one child in front, one in a seat that tucks under at the back), who find trust
the entire bus sighs when they get on, as chaos will no doubt ensue. I know,
because I was that person.
Happily, the way Which? tests pushchairs covers all these bases and more. Baby shower
Whether you have a small car or use the bus a lot, our reviews tell you if a pushchair gift service
is going to suit. We check how easy they are to manoeuvre, and store. We check Some high street stores
they’re safe, and we get parents’ views on them, too. We even check the size of and websites, including
John Lewis, operate a
the shopping basket (crucial). baby shower gift list
service along the same
Liz Edwards, lines as a wedding
Head of Content Development, Which? list, so presents aren’t
duplicated.
to use the pushchair for lengthy daytime naps or
whole afternoons in the park, consider one with a
carrycot and mattress.
Travel systems Travel systems including a
Group 0 child car seat are appealing as you can www.nct.org.uk
Find your local
transfer your baby from pushchair to car without
NCT Nearly New Sale
waking them up, but babies shouldn’t be confined and buy or sell everything
to their child car seat for long periods of time. from prams and toys to
Reversible seat Many parents prefer to have changing mats and clothes.
their baby facing them, rather than facing away (as
they would in a basic buggy), because they like to
maintain eye contact.
Buying pushchairs to suit your lifestyle
You’re unlikely to find a pushchair that meets all
your needs perfectly. But thinking carefully about Actions
your lifestyle and future plans can help you buy a
pushchair that serves you well. Print
Those who walk a lot need pushchairs that are
easy to push on a wide variety of surfaces and can which.co.uk
NCT/WHICH? 9
 Buying Tips on buying pushchairs
Manufacturers regularly change

a pushchair
patterns, designs and materials.
Last season’s designs are often
available at lower prices.
Check what accessories are
Advice
negotiate kerbs and stairs with ease. Protection included – for instance, a rain
you can
from wind, rain and sun is important, and plenty cover is optional on some models.
trust
of storage space can accommodate changing You can often find deals online
and shopping bags. at sites such as Kiddicare.com,
Public transport users should choose or at NCT’s Nearly New Sales.
lightweight and easy-folding pushchairs that
can be used from birth, with a one-handed fold Road
mechanism. test it
Motorists will need to check the folded Try borrowing your
pushchair and its accessories will fit in their boot, friends’ pushchairs
and might want to consider a pushchair that can to give them a try
be fitted with a child car seat. and see how you like
You're unlikely to fold the pushchair every time them. Check how easy
you use it. Consider the pushchair's unfolded size you find it to move
taking up space in your hallway. Pushchairs that in a tight space, do a
stand upright independently when folded complete about-turn,
or are easy to lock folded are easier to store. tip backwards to mount
Even though manufacturers recommend kerbs and abruptly
removing your child from a pushchair on stairs, change direction.
this is often not practical. Some of the larger Hard plastic grips can be Which? members can
pushchairs can be very heavy, especially when uncomfortable after a find out how our experts
loaded with a child and shopping so, if your local time; look for pushchairs and parent panel rated
terrain or daily routine features lots of stairs pushchairs, buggies
and kerbs, consider buying a lighter-weight with softer rubber or
and travel systems for
pushchair. Lifting some pushchairs from the foam grips and handles safety, usability and
car boot can also be a challenge. with soft, rounded edges convenience.

Best pushchairs for comfort

Pushing a fully laden buggy can be quite
demanding, so finding a pushchair that suits your
size and shape is vital. Always visit a shop and
test drive pushchairs before you buy.
Pushchair handle height If you or your
partner are taller than average, you don’t want
to be stooping to push your baby. Don’t assume
adjustable handles will be long enough for you.
Handle grip Hard plastic grips can be
uncomfortable after a time; look for pushchairs
with softer rubber or foam grips and handles
with soft, rounded edges that are angled to
support a natural wrist position. Some handle
bars can be adjusted higher or lower to give
you a more comfortable grip.
Uninterrupted stride Check you can walk using
your normal stride, and you don’t scrape your shin
on a rear axle, brake bar or shopping basket. Actions
Brake pedals Check you find the pushchair’s
brake easy to apply, and that there’s a good grip Print
on foot pedals, so you won’t risk ripping off your
toenails if you tend to wear open-toed shoes. which.co.uk

NCT/WHICH? 10
 Buying a pushchair
We’ll help you At Which? we test hundreds of pushchairs. We’ve
tested more than 25 brands of pushchair for our
choose the right reviews, including models from Bugaboo, Chicco,
Graco, Maclaren, Quinny and Silver Cross.
Advice
you can
trust
pushchair
Join Which? today
for immediate access
to all our Best Buy
and Don’t Buy
recommendations.
Best
Buy

www.nct.org.uk
Find your local
Join Which? today for £1 for 1 month and read all our reviews NCT Nearly New Sale
and buy or sell everything
- from pushchairs to high chairs and cots to car seats. You’ll get full and from prams and toys to
immediate access to which.co.uk, plus a monthly magazine delivered Which? reviews of pushchairs tell you whether a changing mats and clothes.
to your door. pushchair is suitable from birth and what’s included in
the price. We’ll tell you how it fares on public transport,
kerbs and stairs, plus whether it will fit in your boot. We
For complete peace of mind on everything you buy for your family - today, give each one a total test score, plus pros and cons, and Actions
tomorrow and into the future - join Which? ratings for:
handling quality Print
general ease of use
Which? helping you make the right choice, every time. how comfortable it is to push which.co.uk

To join go to which.co.uk/signup NCT/WHICH? 11

 Buying a sling/baby carrier
Many people swear by slings and Advice
carriers. They offer freedom for you can
your hands, and you can keep trust
your baby where they’re happiest
– close to you.
Sling meet
Baby’s age and while juggling a crying baby, and whether you Sling Meet is a local
meeting network set
If you have a young baby, you'll need to choose can get it on and off on your own.
up for parents to get
between a single baby carrier suitable for use together and talk about
up to toddler size, or one designed just for Outside versus inside use – as well as try out each
young babies. The latter would mean you’d Do you want to use your baby carrier to get out others’ – slings and
have to invest in a second carrier if you wanted and about, or just around the house? You may baby carriers. Some
to continue using one – but many parents find not be quite as concerned about how bulky the groups rent out slings
it less comfortable using a baby carrier as their baby carrier is – or how well it packs up – if you’re so you can try them
child gets heavier, and toddlers might not want only wearing it indoors. If you want to use your for a little while before
to be carried once they become more active. baby carrier when you’re out and about, however, deciding to buy. Visit
consider one that’s light and folds up neatly. the Sling Meet website
Who will be using your baby carrier? for details.
If you and your partner both want to use the Cleaning
baby carrier, make sure you choose one that Check whether the sling or baby carrier is machine Front-carrying versus
can be adjusted to fit you both. washable, not just sponge-clean only. A sling or back-carrying baby carriers
baby carrier is bound to get dribbled or vomited Front-carrying baby carriers
Baby carrier adjustability on at some point. PROS: you can generally use it from birth and www.nct.org.uk
If you’re willing to invest time in learning how Some models have ‘dribble bibs’ – you may find you can interact easily with your baby; you can Find your local
to adjust a sling, your range of choice is greater. one of these useful when using a sling with a very often breastfeed discreetly using a front carrier. NCT Nearly New Sale
If you don’t have the time or energy, choose young baby. Alternatively, you can fold a flannel CONS: not suitable for very small newborns or and buy or sell everything
from prams and toys to
something with a minimum of adjustments. or muslin square over the area where your baby’s once a baby is a few months old and too heavy. changing mats and clothes.
Consider whether you can get it on and off easily chin hangs. Back-carrying baby carriers
PROS: physically the easiest way to carry a
When you’re shopping child; last longest – some up until your child is
A sling is a softer version of a baby Try a selection of slings to see how you get on four years old – if your back can take it. Actions
with fastening devices and position adjustments. CONS: not suitable from birth – you can use
carrier. Slings come in different forms You should be able to get a good idea of what’s these only once your baby is able to sit upright; Print
such as pouches or wraps. Carriers comfortable for you before your bump gets too big. you can't see your baby.
include the ubiquitous Baby Bjorn. If your bump’s big already, let your partner try them. which.co.uk

NCT/WHICH? 12
 Buying a high chair
Your high chair will be needed to withstand an onslaught of food and
a good bashing – our tips help you find the right one for you
Different types of high chair
Before you head to the shop, consider whether
you need a full-size high chair or a portable
chair. Choosing the best chair for your needs
will depend on the space in your home, how
much you want to spend, and what you’re
planning to use the chair for.
Full-size high chairs
Full-size high chairs tend to come in four types:
convertible, combination, light-weight folding,
and multi-functional – all with different features.
Portable high chairs
There are three different types of portable
chairs – chair boosters, fabric chair restraints
and table seats; each has different features.
Portable chairs are best suited to those who
want a small chair or restraint when out and
about at restaurants and friends’ houses.
Advice
you can
trust
Size matters
Many larger high street stores have high chairs
on display, so take a look. Some high chairs are Try the
bulky, so you'll get a better idea of how much buckle
space they take up if you see them side by side Try adjusting the tray
before you buy. and undoing the buckle
on the harness. You’re
More padding – more work? likely to do these more
than once a day and
Multi-functional chairs often have a lot of
with a squirming child
padding – it’s comfy for baby, but it can make in the seat, so pick one
more work for you when it comes to cleaning. you can
If your heart is set on a multi-functional chair, work
save yourself as much scrubbing time as easily.
possible by opting for one with as few seams,
creases and crevices in the upholstery and on
the frame of the chair as possible.
If you’re considering buying your high chair
online, take a look in a few high street stores
first, especially when you could be paying over
There are full-size chairs
£100 for one. Also, check delivery charges: and different types of portable
some sites offer free delivery on goods over a chairs, including the chair
www.nct.org.uk
certain price; for others there will be a standard booster and fabric chair restraint Find your local
delivery charge.
(like Totseat) NCT Nearly New Sale
and buy or sell everything
Buying a second-hand high chair from prams and toys to
Our guide on where to buy second-hand baby on the plastic tray, that could pinch your baby. changing mats and clothes.
equipment details some of the best places to If the seat or any other part of the chair is
search online and locally. Here’s how to ensure padded, ensure that no foam is exposed, as this
you buy a safe second-hand high chair. can be a potential choking hazard.
Is it stable, sturdy and not missing any screws Check that there is no flaking paint or Actions
or bolts? splinters that your baby could swallow.
Are all locks and catches to keep it open Check that it has an integral harness. If not, Print
working properly? you’ll need to buy a separate harness to use
which.co.uk
Check for sharp edges or cracks, for example whenever your baby is in the chair.
NCT/WHICH? 13
 Buying a cot
It’s one of the priciest bits of nursery kit, and is the centrepiece of
the room. Your cot needs to work well for you and your baby
Choosing the right-sized cot
Cot sizes vary. Cots designed to fit ‘standard-
sized’ mattresses are a few centimetres
narrower than cots designed for ‘continental-
sized’ mattresses, although they’re often a
similar length. Cots will vary in size within
these categories too, but measurements
should be clearly displayed on the cot label.
The advantage of a larger cot is that your
baby will have more room and, if your baby
and you are happy to continue to use a cot
until he or she is well into the toddling years,
it may be more practical. However, small cots
are perfectly adequate for a growing baby.
Also see p24 for information on sleeping.
The base height of most
cots can be adjusted as
your baby grows.
Advice
Cot beds
you can
A cot bed is a cot with removable sides and end
trust
panel so it can be converted into a toddler-sized
bed. These are increasingly popular and seem
a logical way of lengthening the life of a cot as Chomping on
well as helping to make the move from a cot to
a bed as smooth as possible. the edge of a
Cot beds are larger than cots but are not cot is a habit
necessarily much more expensive. Remember many babies
that you’ll need to buy a cot-bed-sized mattress be lowered – can be useful because you can seem to relish.
rather than one designed for a cot. operate them with one hand. Other cots have
a trigger mechanism, a foot pedal or a couple
To avoid damage,
Safety of catches to undo. choose a cot
Cots should carry the British Standards with a teething
Institution (BSI) number BS EN 716:2008, Bedside cots rail – a protective
which indicates they comply with required Cots with a removable side so you can position covering lining
safety standards. the cot right next to your bed. The base can be
adjusted so your baby’s mattress is lined up
the side-edges
Cot features to look for with yours, making night-time feeding easier. of the cot.
Height-adjustable base
The base height of most cots can be adjusted Teething rail
as your baby grows. You can choose the Chomping on the edge of a cot is a habit many
highest level for the first few months, so you babies seem to relish. Choose a cot with a
can lift your baby in and out easily, then teething rail – a protective covering lining the www.nct.org.uk
move to a lower level when your baby starts side-edges of the cot – if you want to avoid the Find your local
to pull him- or herself up. Most cots have a two- risk of damage. NCT Nearly New Sale
or three-position base; a few have more. Two and buy or sell everything
from prams and toys to
positions are fine for most people’s needs. Casters changing mats and clothes.
Handy if you want to move the cot to a different
Fixed- or drop-sides? room. It also makes for easier cleaning under
Most cots available have drop-sides. One or and around the cot.
both sides of the cot will have a mechanism Actions
designed to let you lower the side so you can Second-hand or hand-me-down cots
lift your baby in and out with ease. Many second-hand cots are fine, but check Print
‘Nudge and lift’ mechanisms – when you push whether they meet current safety standards first
the side of the cot into a position where it can by using our guide. You’ll need a new mattress. which.co.uk
NCT/WHICH? 14
 For your peace of mind
Stair gates Advice
Baby monitors Measure up
you can
trust
Before you buy, always measure the width
Baby monitors between the walls at both the top and bottom.
provide peace of Skirting boards may make this gap smaller.
mind, rather than Fittings
Ask shop assistants
actual safety, but Decide in advance if you want a temporary or to show you how to
they allow you to permanent fitting. set your gate and,
listen to your child if that isn’t possible,
Material
and help you know Make sure you can drill into walls, skirting
read the instructions
whether they are boards, banisters or door frames. Most gates carefully before you
sleeping soundly. only come with wood screws, so you may buy to make sure
need to buy masonry screws. you know what
Number
you’re getting.
Take into account rooms without doors, such
as the kitchen, as well as the top and bottom
of stairs.
Which type is right for me? you when on battery power – some come with www.nct.org.uk
Mains-powered monitors a belt clip so you don’t need to hold it. The more Price Find your local
Mains-powered monitors are the cheapest and expensive models have rechargeable batteries. Stair gates can cost anything up to £65. So if you NCT Nearly New Sale
and buy or sell everything
simplest option. These can be plugged into a Pros: Useful for parents who will be busying have to buy three or four, the costs can really
from prams and toys to
socket in any room, but cannot be used with themselves about the house or garden while start to mount up. Luckily, some of the best are changing mats and clothes.
batteries. the baby is asleep; rechargeable models save around £25.
Pros: The least expensive option, ideal for worrying about batteries running out.
parents who won’t be moving around the Cons: More expensive than Colour and finish
house much while the monitor is on, or if mains-powered The choices are usually white metal, wood
they are only likely to be used at night. models, especially or black plastic – you should try and envisage
Cons: Less versatile; can’t be used away if you regularly run which would look best in your home, but
from a socket. a non-rechargeable obviously not at the expense of safety. Actions
model on batteries.
Portable dual-powered monitors Which? members Try before you buy Print
These run on either the mains or batteries, can read reviews of One of the key problems with some stair gates
which.co.uk
so the parent unit can be carried around with those we tested. is that they can be difficult to set up.

NCT/WHICH? 15
Are you a new Saving for children
parent or Child trust funds

parent-to-be?
CIn 2005, Child Trust Funds
(CTFs) were introduced to Advice
encourage tax-free longterm you can
saving. However, the trust
government contribution
was reduced in August 2010,
and stopped altogether on 31
December 2010. Babies born on
Becoming a parent is a wonderful experience, but it is or after this date are not eligible.
Parents with children who hold
also one of the biggest challenges we ever face and CTFs can still contribute to these (up to £3,600 per year). Good ways
that is where NCT comes in. We are the UK’s largest And, although you can’t withdraw money from a CTF until to save
your child is 18, it is still possible to switch CTF provider or Which? searches the
parenting charity, offering people reliable information move funds from one type of CTF account to another. market to discover the
best children’s savings
and a local community of parents for support. Junior ISAs accounts. You can find
Junior Isas are the replacement for CTFs for children born the results and the
after 1 January 2011. They can also be opened on behalf of latest Best Rate deals,
Local support network older children, born before September 2002, who missed
out on CTFs. There is no government contribution, but
as well as alternative
ways to save, online.
parents and relatives can pay in up to £3,600 each year.
You can put your money in either a cash or a stocks and
National Helplines shares Junior Isa, or split your money between one of
each. You can switch provider in the same way as CTFs,
but it is not possible to move money from a CTF to a
Parenting courses Junior Isa.

Children’s savings accounts

These work in a similar way to normal savings accounts,
with kids aged up to 16 or 18 (depending on provider)
eligible to hold them. Money can be withdrawn from these
accounts at any time – but the interest earned is taxable.

Put savings under a trust

You can put savings under a simple trust called a ‘bare’
trust – the money is held for the child’s benefit but won’t
become payable until they are 18 years old. Any income to
a bare trust is usually treated as the child’s, which means Actions
that, unless they have income of more than the personal
allowance (£8,105 for 2012–13), there will be no tax to pay Print
on the interest from savings. Only 10 per cent tax will be
payable on dividends or unit trust distributions. which.co.uk
For more information visit
www.nct.org.uk NCT/WHICH? 16
 What you can get free
when you are pregnant
Pregnancy and parenthood can be an expensive business, but there are
freebies, entitlements and grants open to you if you’re pregnant or are a
new parent, so check these out
Free prescriptions and dental care
If you're pregnant, you’re exempt from paying for
prescriptions and NHS dental treatment. You’ll
need to apply for a maternity exemption certificate
by asking your doctor or midwife for form FW8 –
they'll need to sign it, too. The certificate will cover
you up to 12 months after your due date – if your
baby is born late, you can apply for an extension to
cover your baby’s full first 12 months.
Sure start maternity grant
This government grant is available to help low-
income families towards the costs of a
new baby. A one-off payment of £500 is
available – but you can apply for it only
between week 29 of your
pregnancy and when your baby is
three months old. As part of the June
2010 emergency Budget, chancellor
George Osborne announced that the Sure Start
grant will be restricted to the first child only.
The Sure Start maternity grant is available if
either you or your partner are claiming income
support, income-related Jobseeker’s Allowance
or Employment and Support Allowance, or
pension credits. You can get a claim form from
your local job centre, or download one via the
Department for Work and Pensions website.
Free packs
A number of different companies offer free packs
containing combinations of information, advice,
Advice
you can
trust
Healthy start vouchers
In a government bid to helps mums-
to-be and under-fours eat healthily,
the Healthy Start scheme provides
free weekly vouchers to spend on
milk, fresh fruit, fresh vegetables and
infant formula milk, as well as free
vitamins.
Low-income families earning below
£16,040 a year, including families
receiving income support or income-
related Jobseeker’s Allowance, and
young mums under the age of 18 are
eligible to apply via the Healthy Start
NHS website, or by getting a form
from your midwife or health visitor.
You’ll get £3.10 a week if you’re
pregnant (more than 10 weeks),
£6.20 a week for a baby under one
year old and £3.10 a week for each
child aged over one and under four.
money-off coupons, baby product samples and supermarkets. Typically, there will be one early on, Actions
household freebies – as well as lots of adverts. when your pregnancy is confirmed, one at about
You’ll usually get these at various stages during three months, one in hospital and one that you can Print
your pregnancy and in the hospital, if you give pick up from Superdrug or Boots when your baby is
birth there. You can also pick them up from large six months old. which.co.uk
NCT/WHICH? 17
 Your guide What foods should I avoid?
You are more vulnerable to food-
borne infections such as salmonella

to pregnancy and birth during pregnancy, although the risks

are rare. It is best to avoid foods that
can cause infections such as raw or Info
You’re probably feeling a mixture of emotions right now, but there undercooked meat, raw seafood, soft you can
is plenty of support and information to help you on your journey cheeses, unpasteurised milk and raw or trust
Feel more comfortable during pregnancy undercooked eggs.
Morning sickness – eating something can help
the nausea subside. Nibbling something dry like a For further
cracker can help, but try to avoid caffeine and rich information to help
or fried food as these are often triggers. you decide between
Plenty of water, the countless choices
Heartburn – avoid spicy food and eat plenty of
rest and some facing new parents,
fruit and vegetables. Sit up as straight as you can
when eating to avoid the baby pressing on your gentle exercise visit NCT’s website
stomach. This can cause acid to be pushed from can ease (www.nct.org.uk)
your stomach into your oesophagus.
swelling or call our Pregnancy
& Birth Line on
Aching and swelling – plenty of water, rest and 0300 330 0772
some gentle exercise can ease swelling.
(9am to 8pm,
Sensitive skin – soothe the itchiness from your Monday to Friday).
skin stretching by using moisturiser. Speak to
your midwife if you experience severe itching,
particularly on your hands and feet.
www.nct.org.uk
Where will my baby be born? NCT are here to provide
you with all the help you
If your pregnancy is straightforward you can need to make informed
choose where to have your baby. You can decisions that are right for
give birth in hospital in a midwifery-led unit you. Visit the info centre for
or a consultant-led unit, or at home. impartial, evidence-based
guidance and support.
What are the benefits of water or home birth?
Home birth can provide a more relaxed
atmosphere and help you to feel in control during
labour, while water birth can ease the pain by Actions
providing calm and space. Not all hospital units
will have a birth pool available, although some Print
hospitals will allow you to use your own pool. You
can also hire a pool to use at home. www.nct.org.uk

NCT/WHICH? 18
 helping you and your baby get...

ht ‘s s l e e p Your guide
to pregnancy and birth

n i g
a g o o d ....with
How can I manage pain in labour?
If you have a realistic idea of the mental and physical
Info

nct shop
you can

. ......................................
............................................
demands, you will find yourself better equipped to cope
with the pain of labour. Go with your instincts and go
trust
through the labour at a pace you feel comfortable with.
Make sure you have the right birth partner to support you
all the way – they can be just as important as pain relief. Make sure you
have the right
BEDNEST BEDSIDE CRIB Baby Bedding BLACKOUT BLINDS How will I know I’m in labour? birth partner to

maternity nightwear
When will I need to go into hospital?
When your contractions are long, strong and coming close
support you all
the way.
baby sleepsuits moses baskets
together, ring your midwife or hospital to discuss your

cot quilts options. The longer you can labour at home the better.
Labour is unpredictable and usually lasts much longer
than people think it will, especially if it is a first baby. Many
women say they wish they hadn’t gone to hospital so early
as it was harder to cope in a strange environment.

www.nct.org.uk
NCT are here to provide
you with all the help you
need to make informed
decisions that are right for
you. Visit the info centre for
impartial, evidence-based
guidance and support.

Actions

.................................nctshop.co.uk
.................................0845......8100100
........
Print
www.nct.org.uk

NCT/WHICH? 19
 Getting support
when you are pregnant Info
Becoming a parent is both exciting and scary, but remember you can
that there is lots of information and support out there to help trust
you through the maze of pregnancy, birth and early parenthood
Free info guide to life as a parent Antenatal courses: Find your nearest
Sign up to NCT’s free electronic guide, covering designed to help
everything from when you first find out that you prepare for
branch events at
you’re pregnant to celebrating your baby’s labour, birth and the www.nct.org.uk
first birthday. From babywearing to weaning, rollercoaster first days.
we’re with you every step of the way. Refresher antenatal
www.nct.org.uk/care/stepping-stones courses: for parents who As the UK’s
have a child but want to largest
Budgeting for a baby brush up on their knowledge parenting
The cost of kitting out your child for the first five or look at choosing a different charity,
years can run into thousands of pounds – so bag birth this time around. NCT provides
a bargain at your local NCT Nearly New Sale. With Postnatal courses: for information, courses
everything from prams and toys to equipment mums who want to feel more and a network of
and clothes, our sales are your one-stop shop for confident in their new role. local support for over
being prepared for the birth of your baby. Even Courses are available across the UK – enter two million mums
better – once you’ve made use of all your baby your postcode into the course finder to find your and dads every year.
stuff, you can come along to the next event as a nearest course.
seller and pass it on! Sharing experiences with someone else who
Visit www.nct.org.uk/nns and enter your Helplines understands what you are going through can be a
postcode to find your nearest sale. We run a range of helplines, managed by our lifeline. Our helpline is run by volunteers who have
qualified staff, to help you to access support and had challenging experiences of pregnancy, birth
Dad’s the word information or just find a listening ear for any and parenthood and can provide both a listening
Written by a dad, these free guides cover concerns you may have as a parent. ear and support.
pregnancy, supporting your partner during
birth and adjusting to life as a new father. Pregnancy & Birth line 0300 330 0772 Meet other Mums and Dads in your area
www.nct.org.uk/dads 9am–8pm, Monday to Friday Making friends with people going through the
Postnatal line 0300 330 0773 same life changes as you is a fantastic support.
Antenatal and postnatal courses 9am–1pm, Monday to Friday NCT has 320 branches across the UK, run by Actions
At NCT, we know how important it is to find Breastfeeding line 0300 330 0771 parents for parents. Regular events include
the information you need to prepare for life as 8am–10pm, seven days a week Bumps & Babies groups, coffee mornings and Print
a parent. Our range of courses can help you Shared Experiences Helpline 0300 330 0774 family days out. Everyone is welcome, whether
www.nct.org.uk
through this life-changing experience. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, 9am–3pm. you have a bump, baby or toddler.

NCT/WHICH? 20
Working through it
when you are pregnant
Women make up half the workforce in the UK and up to
85% of women will become pregnant during their career
If you decide to return to work, there are ways to
make it as stress-free as possible. NCT supports
a parent’s decision to stay at home with their
children or return to work in some capacity
(full-time/part-time).
We campaign for greater support for
parents to enable them to make the
decisions that are right for them and
their families.
When to tell your employer
Legally, you do not need to tell your employer of
your pregnancy and intention to take maternity
leave until the fifteenth week before your baby
is due. Many women announce their pregnancy
at the end of the first trimester (about 12 weeks),
as at this time the risk of miscarriage is greatly
reduced and a growing bump may not be easy
to hide. There are, however, various benefits to
telling your employer about your pregnancy
sooner rather than later. For example, if your
pregnancy is difficult or you are experiencing
issues with morning sickness or require time
out of the normal work schedule for antenatal
appointments, your employer can ensure you
have the right level of support in place to help you.
Know your rights
If you are an employee you are entitled to
52 weeks’ maternity leave, regardless of length
of service or the number of hours worked. You
Info
you can
trust
may start your maternity leave and pay anytime
from 11 weeks before your baby is due, unless Plan your
you give birth before then. You can work right up maternity
to the birth if you wish. There is a compulsory leave
two week period of leave after you have given
birth (unless you work in a factory, when you For more information
must take four weeks off after the birth). If you on how to plan your
are off work with a pregnancy-related sickness maternity leave. and
during the last four weeks before your baby is advice on working
due, your employer can insist you start your with your employer
leave then. to arrange a smooth
return to work,
Staying in touch days download NCT’s FREE
In general, employees who keep in touch with information guide:
their employer and co-workers find it easier to Returning to work.
return. You may work for up to 10 days without
bringing maternity leave to an end or losing
Statutory Maternity Pay or Maternity Allowance.
These days are known as Keeping In Touch days
and can only take place if both you and your
employer want them. How you keep in touch
is up to you and your employer, it could be a
phone call every week or sending an email each
month. Your employer also has a duty to keep in
touch with you as a paid employee to keep you
Actions
informed of things going on in your organisation, Print
so again it is a good idea to agree how this will
happen in advance. www.nct.org.uk
NCT/WHICH? 21
 Space invaders You and your partner
The birth of a child is a huge

How a new baby may affect

transition for couples. While
some couples feel their baby
brings them closer together,
Info
your relationship it is common for the changes
and demands brought by a
baby to create or intensify
you can
trust
No-one has a baby and remains unchanged, and your relationship strains and
relationships with family and friends will change, too tensions to some degree.
Many couples find that the
Old friends baby takes first place, leaving
Once the initial excitement of meeting the new them less time for each other,
Make friends with
baby wears off, old friends without children and they may fear a loss of other mums and
may feel as if they have little in common. It’s intimacy. dads in your area
important to try to remember that there will – it can be a great
be a time later in the first year when new
parents turn around, look at their baby-filled
support to share
life, and decide that they, too, want to watch your experiences
the latest films, see their mates and have the with other people
conversations they used to have, and good who know exactly
friends will still be there ready to go out again.
what you are going
Family through.
The baby’s grandparents may want to take
an active role and they can often give great
support – but if your relationship with your
or your partner’s parents is already tense, the www.nct.org.uk
arrival of a baby can create even more tension. NCT are here to provide
When family visit, it can be a good idea to you with all the help you
give them something to do to help out, such as need to make informed
decisions that are right for
cooking a meal or looking after the baby while you. Visit the info centre for
you have a rest. Show lots of appreciation and impartial, evidence-based
they should be happy to help! But, remember, guidance and support.
it is OK to limit visitors so that you have time to
adjust to life with your new baby.
website to find a nearby Bumps & Babies group. Give each other time, communicate with each
What you can do Talk with your partner about how you are both other, and do show affection in other ways. Actions
Make friends with other mums and dads in feeling. Try to spend some time together alone. Respect your different ways of doing things.
your area – it can be a great support to share Hugs and cuddles are nice if you don’t feel like Your relationship should settle down once you Print
your experiences with other people who know making love (or try a massage). Some couples have both adjusted to this big change. But, if
exactly what you are going through. Visit NCT’s don’t have sex for a long time after the birth. you need to talk, find a friend you can trust. www.nct.org.uk

NCT/WHICH? 22
 Breastfeeding
Is breastfeeding easy?
It may seem a bit awkward at first but
don't worry if you don't get the hang of it

an introduction
straightaway. Remember when you learned
to ride a bike or drive a car? Sometimes you
need to practise something new.
Info
You will have noticed your breasts changing in pregnancy you can
as they get ready to produce milk for your baby Try to be patient and ask for help trust
if you need it. Gradually, you and
your baby will both become expert
Feeding your baby at this new skill. For further
when he wants to information
A step-by-step guide to feeding call NCT’s
be fed won’t spoil
him. If you leave him 1 Get yourself comfortable. If you are sore
from the birth try leaning back or sitting on a
Breastfeeding line
to talk to a qualified
until he cries or until cushion. If you have had a Caesarean you might breastfeeding
find it easier initially to lie down.
it’s ‘time’, he might counsellor for
not be easy to latch
on. It’s normal for
2 Hold your baby closely, with his tummy
facing yours and his nose and top lip near
your nipple. You can support his head by
information and
support to help you
breastfeed.
newborn babies to resting it on your forearm or you can hold him 0300 330 0771,
around the neck and shoulders. Don’t hold the
eat little and often. back of his head as he needs to be able to move
open 8am–10pm,
every day.
it to be comfortable.

3 Wait for a wide open mouth. He needs to

get a good mouthful – if he only takes the
nipple it can make you sore and it’s hard for him
to get enough milk. Tickle his top lip with your
www.nct.org.uk
nipple to get him to open his mouth wide. NCT are here to provide

4 As he opens his mouth, bring his

shoulders and body towards you firmly but
gently. Let him tip his head back and take the
you with all the help you
need to make informed
decisions that are right for
breast. This is called latching on. If he pulls off, you. Visit the info centre for
impartial, evidence-based
or if it is painful for you, he may not be latched guidance and support.
on quite right. Stay calm and try again.

How will I know my baby is hungry?

When your baby is hungry, he will let you Actions
know. Crying is not the first sign – you may
notice him licking his lips and moving his Print
head from side to side. This is a good time
to feed him. www.nct.org.uk

NCT/WHICH? 23
 Peace of mind, Sweet dreams
Babies need a lot of sleep because
for less they have so much new information
to process and they are growing and Info
developing at such a rapid pace you can
Join Which? today and get instant trust

access to all our product reviews Encouraging your baby to sleep
There are gentle ways of encouraging your baby to learn
to go to sleep without being fed or held:
placing your baby awake in their cot at bedtime with a
favourite toy or comfort blanket
introducing a regular bedtime routine such as a bath,
bedtime clothes, singing or reading a book together
in young babies, some parents find that additional feeds
during the evening can help babies sleep for longer
try to avoid putting lights on and nappy changing when
your baby wakes at night.

This offer gives you a 1 month trial for just £1. You'll have full access to all our
Best Buy and Don’t Buy recommendations on which.co.uk plus a monthly
magazine delivered to your door, helping you choose the right products for you
and your baby.
For complete peace of mind on everything you buy for your family - today,
tomorrow and into the future - join Which?
Co-sleeping
Sleeping in the same bed as your baby – ‘co-sleeping’
You can call our
or ‘bed-sharing’ – provides an opportunity to bond postnatal line to
and can be one of the most precious experiences speak to one of our
of parenthood. Around half of all mothers in the UK postnatal leaders
sleep in bed with their baby at some time. It can help
breastfeeding at night and reduce sleep disruption for
if you have any
mothers, fathers and babies. questions about life
It is important for parents who choose to co-sleep to with a new baby.
do so safely and avoid any increased risk for babies.
The Department of Health advises that bed-sharing
should be avoided if one or both parents is a smoker,
0300 330 0773,
or has consumed alcohol or any drugs (prescription or 9am–1pm,
otherwise) that affect perception, cause drowsiness or Monday to Friday
affect the depth of your sleep. Co-sleeping should also be
avoided if the baby has a fever or any signs of illness or
if you are excessively tired to the extent that this might
affect you being able to respond to your baby. Actions
You should also ensure your baby’s head cannot become
covered by the bedding or pillow. In addition, sleeping Print
with a baby on a sofa or other soft surface should be
avoided. www.nct.org.uk

To join go to which.co.uk/signup NCT/WHICH? 24

What to pack Hospital bag checklist
For labour:

for your baby’s birth Birthplan and maternity medical notes

Old nightgown (front-opening if planning to
breastfeed), dressing gown, slippers, warm socks Advice
Money for hospital parking and phone calls you can
Energy tablets or isotonic drinks and other snacks trust
A Tens machine (if you are planning to use one)
Watch with a second hand or digital timer
to time contractions

For after the birth:

Old knickers or disposable knickers
Nightdresses Extras you
Maternity sanitary pads (around 24) might like in
Nursing bras if breastfeeding, plus breastfeeding hospital
pads and lanolin cream Water spray
Sleepsuits, hats and plenty of nappies Bendy straws
for the baby Massage oil
Cotton wool for the baby Your own pillows
Muslin squares Your own birth ball –
Blanket to put over the baby for the journey home although your hospital
Loose clothing for you for the journey home may provide them
A child car seat for the journey home Lip balm – as gas and
air can make your lips
very dry
Home birth checklist A camera/camcorder
Birthplan and phone numbers of your midwifery team (check they are allowed
Some pieces of plastic or rubber sheeting to cover in your hospital)
a floor area or the bed, and bin bags
An old bedsheet to lay on top of any waterproof
covers
A large towel to wrap mother and baby in (plus
more towels if you are having a water birth)
Hot water bottle
A birth ball (if you wish)
Tea, coffee and biscuits or other snacks for yourself
and the midwives Actions
A camera/camcorder
Maternity sanitary pads Print
An emergency hospital bag (see above)
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