When you have children, you can get sucked into the world of products marketed at parents - and it can be really tempting to buy that 'must have' item. But do you really need it, or can you leave it on the shelf?
One parenting expert has revealed that there are common buys deemed as necessary by many - but she said you don't actually need them, despite the fact they're products you've likely heard of or seen.
Surrey-based Kirsty Ketley, 42, who goes by 'Auntie K', has 25 years experience of working with families, and regularly shares the worst parenting tips to follow. She also debunks parenting myths as she's a mum to 10-year-old Ella and six-year-old Leo and has first-hand experience.
Kirsty said: "I think a lot of things get marketed at new parents because as a new parent, you want to make sure that you have everything you need.
"You can also be totally clueless as to what you do or do not need, so you see something as a 'must have' and buy because you think you should."
But Kirsty has shared what is essential, and what isn't, sharing that one item is even potentially dangerous.
Kirsty wouldn't recommend plug socket covers, as they're "unregulated, and they come in all shapes and sizes – therefore rarely fitting sockets correctly."
She said: "Using covers actually makes the sockets unsafe because they open up the protective shutters already on plug sockets, exposing electrical contacts.
"The covers often come loose and are easily removed by children, which then poses a huge risk of electrocution.
"Covers can also damage the socket, which can make them overheat and become a fire risk."
She also deemed changing tables as unnecessary as you "could just pick up a set of drawers on their own" for cheaper.
Kirsty said: "Changing tables also pose a safety risk once babies start to roll, so many parents end up not using them after their baby has turned four-five months old, and the changing table just becomes a bit of a dumping ground. It's best to just buy a nappy mat to use on the floor."
Kirsty recommended parents avoid the follow on milk too "unless you are told by a health visitor or doctor, you don't need to change to a follow on milk at six month.
"First-stage formula is totally fine until babies reach one year, where they can switch to full-fat regular milk instead", she claimed.
She also said you don't need a changing bag, as a "regular rucksack would suffice."
Kirsty said: "I'd recommend one that has side pockets for bottles and is weather-proof – one you would take hiking, for instance.
"I've used countless changing bags that are either super expensive or totally not practical and I used a regular backpack for mine in the end."
And if you're looking for a baby bath, Kirsty recommends not bothering.
"A bath seat, such as The Angel Care one, is a much better option [than a baby bath]", Kirsty said.
"It means that, although you should never leave your baby unattended at bath time, if you are alone, it is easier to wash your baby singlehandedly."
Would you take this advice? Let us know in the comments.
