Whether you are a first time mum, mum to be, or have a few kids and are expecting another, there are some things you simply can’t do without. But, which are the must have items, and which ones should you skip over when preparing for a new arrival?

These are my top 5 baby products you simply must have, as a first time mum, or when having another child.

1. Stroller

Not just any stroller. This Mamas & Papas Armadillo Flip stroller is light in weight, and it has the most compact fold of any stroller on the market, allowing you to easily store it away anywhere. It has a one-handed open feature, so you can keep your baby in one hand, and easily open the stroller up when you are in a hurry. It can also accommodate two newborns, meaning it is bassinet and car seat compatible.

2. Car Seat

The Chicco Key Fit 3.0 seat is a one click, and ready to go seat. No need to struggle figuring out how to put this in the back seat, it installs easily, it has extra thick cushioning for added comfort and protection, comes in 17 colour schemes, and you can face it forward or backward depending on your child’s age.

3. Bouncer

Another Mamas & Papas piece is this baby bouncer. Fun sounds, hanging and dangling objects, and plush toys will keep your child entertained while you run around doing errands or preparing a meal at home. It will even sing lullabies to put your child to sleep for you. It also has a music book feature, so you can input your own favorite songs, which is a nice added bonus most bouncers don’t offer.

4. Swing

This swing by Ingenuity Power Adapt offers five unique swinging options, eight melodies, and three nature tunes. It also has a few hanging toys and plush toys, and extra padding, so your child will be entertained allowing you to free your hands up, and offers optimal comfort when they have to be seated for extended periods of time.

5. Carrier

The Baby Bjorn carrier is a must have when you need both hands. It can be placed in the front of the body for younger children, and on the back when they get a bit older. It opens from the front allowing you to seamlessly remove your baby if they want to be carried. And, the secure locking bottom is designed for unaided use, so you always know your child is safe, locked, and secured, when in the carrier.

There are some items you simply can’t do without as a parent, these are a few to consider when having a child. One problem many new parents face is being able to afford all of these items immediately. One solution is to spread the cost by shopping with an online credit store or catalogue. Credit catalogues such as Littlewoods, Argos and Vertbaudet have a huge range of baby products and accessories to choose from.