Babies & Kids goods in Kenya

Babies & Kids goods in Kenya

From strollers and cribs to clothes and diapers, the number of things your little one needs can add up quickly. But buying there are times when you are unsure of the condition of the item you can buy to save cost as you stock up on baby supplies. 

That said, while some baby items are perfectly reusable, for other needs it's safer to shell out a little more money and buy firsthand. This is when it is safe to buy used items and also know when you should buy a new one.

Items you can consider buying for newborns

Clothing

Shopping for new baby clothes can be just as much fun as shopping for the racks yourself! But before you pick up every adorable item you see you should know this.

A word of advice is circled on the fact that your little one is set to gain a pound and lengthen an inch every month, on average. To save money by repurposing heirloom items from a sibling or friend or reselling purchases (especially smart with fancy or festive clothes and shoes that are usually only worn a few times). 

Just make sure your finds don't have loose drawstrings, buttons, or ties, which could be choking or entanglement hazards, and check labels to make sure the sleepwear is flame-resistant.

Toys

As you may have already learned, it is impossible to predict what your baby will enjoy. So keep an eye on your wallet and test drive second-hand toys and board books before you buy new baby toys. 

Just be on the lookout for loose fittings or peeling paint, and leave anything with small parts that could pose a choking hazard. Simple toys with few or no moving parts, like blocks, rattles, and stacking cups, are always safe bets.

Cloth diapers

One little-known reason cloth diapers may be cheaper is that they have a good resale value once you're done with them. So if you go the reusable route, buying old diaper inserts and covers is not only affordable but can also be perfectly hygienic. A few washes, or one if your washer has a "sanitize" cycle, removes any buildup.

Bath Tub

Bathtubs are fine to buy used as long as you check for mould and mildew. Babies grow faster than you can tell, rubber ducky, so you should be able to save money on one that was hardly used.

Just be sure to avoid bath seats, bath rings, or inflatable tubs that fit in the bathtub, as these can be dangerous.

Changing Table

You can save money buying a used changing table in no time. Just make sure the one you get has side rails on all four sides and comes with a safety strap, and watch out for peeling paint and missing parts. 

If you're short on space, you can also purchase a changing table that will turn any corner into a temporary changing table.

High Chair

Voluntary safety standards require that a highchair have a three-point harness with a crotch strap to prevent a child from slipping out, as well as a fixed crotch post so they can't slide off. 

If these two characteristics are taken into account, a second-hand high chair is fine. The tray should on no account be higher than a baby’s head.

Items to buy in new conditions

Breast Pump

Second-hand breast pumps are everywhere. And yes, new pumps are expensive. But a used consumer pump (if it's not yours, of course) has the potential for cross-contamination. Exposing your newborn to bacteria or viruses is not worth the risk.

Car Seat

While a car seat can cost a lot, it's money well spent. Safety standards for car seats change frequently, and materials, even in the most expensive models, degrade over time. 

Also, a seat's history may prevent it from fully protecting your child in an accident. So play it safe and buy new. 

Crib

Federal regulations changed in 2011, prohibiting manufacturers from producing drop-side cribs, which can be dangerous to babies and even deadly. You may see them at garage sales, but don't buy them. 

If you can't afford a new crib, a new portable crib is preferable, which is less expensive but just as safe as a full-size one.

Mattress

For sanitary reasons, it's also best to avoid reusing crib mattresses; another baby is guaranteed to have urinated, defecated, and spit on them, and they can be contaminated with bacteria and mould. 

Old mattresses sometimes contain chemicals that are best avoided (phthalates, BPA). Also, mattresses get softer with use, and it's best to always use a firm mattress to help prevent SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).

Playground

Newer playground models are more likely to adhere to safety standards that went into effect on February 28, 2013. This rectifies problems with older models (such as a top-rail hinge that can collapse, putting children at risk of entrapment or strangulation).

Walker

Strollers have come a long way over the years, making some considerably safer and turnkey, according to Consumer Reports' stroller tests. 

In fact, as of September 10, 2015, new standards for stroller manufacturers came into force. Considering this is often the workhorse in your baby gear stable, go for one of the latest models.

Soft Baby Carrier

Strap-on carriers and slings are notorious for recalls, so shop for new ones to ensure you're carrying your baby safely. Even then, check to make sure straps, snaps, and other closures are working as intended.

Product types, features, and specifications of Babies & Kids goods

How do you get Babies & Kids goods in Kenya

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