Having a baby is not cheap. From the moment you learn you’re pregnant, the offers start coming in and you start pouring through the catalogs. You see images of what’s considered the “perfect” nursery and the beautiful images of all the celebrities and their “latest additions” and think, “I’ve just gotta have that!” But do you really? There are some products that are touted as the “must-have” items for the complete nursery and others that claim to boost your baby’s intelligence and have them ready for college by the time they’re seven. Some of these, however, are not only unnecessary but actually could be down-right dangerous. And, in this economic climate, aren’t we all trying to find ways to save money when we can?

The first thing every mom-to-be starts considering is the décor for the nursery. There are hundreds of pictures of beautiful nurseries with comforters, fluffy pillows, beautiful wallpaper, curtains and cute stuffed animals. While this might look great, the reality is that anything in the crib with the exception of a firm mattress and tight-fitting sheet could increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Fluffy comforters, pillows, stuffed animals and over-padded bumpers have no business in the crib.

As your baby gets older, keep in mind that it’s not necessary to spend tons of money on “developmental toys” that are supposed to stimulate your babies brain. Most experts will agree that items that they can manipulate, such as blocks and cups, balls that they can roll and, yes, Tupperware that they can bang work just as well!

Also, be mindful of toys and other items that have small parts that can break off and become a choking hazard or ones with a string that can become a strangulation hazard.

So what are the products that you should invest in? A safe crib, a great car seat, an easy-to-maneuver stroller and a versatile high-chair. And, whenever purchasing any product, fill out and return any manufacturer’s warranty cards and check on the Consumer Products Safety Commission website (www.cpsc.gov) to be sure it hasn’t been recalled.

*Content expressed in Home Security Source does not represent the thoughts and opinions of ADT Security Services, Inc. unless explicitly indicated.