New shoes are worn in a unique way by their wearer and may damage your child s developing feet if they ve already been broken in by another child. Other baby equipment such as cribs, high chairs, or walkers may be fine to use, but it s important to check for information on re-calls by the manufacturers. Cribs must meet a safety standard for the width between the bars. However, many items that are considered essential for baby care aren t needed at all. For example, families that choose to practice the family bed may not need a crib or bassinet.
Diaper changing tables are highly unnecessary items.
Changes can be done on a bed, or even the floor. A table or desk can be adapted for use as a changing table by adding a pad made for that purpose. The need for a high chair can be eliminated if an adult is willing to hold the baby while he s being fed, or a chair that hooks to the kitchen table can be purchased. Potty chairs aren t really necessary either. Another way to save money on baby care is breast-feeding.