Walk into any Babies R Us or similar baby gear store and you suddenly realize just how overwhelming and daunting the task of picking the right gear for your baby really is.  There are so many choices out there and large ranges in quality and price that it can be hard to tell if you are paying for quality or just the name.  It can be so difficult to know where to look for reliable information.  How do you know you are making the right choice? 

As I walked through the baby store the first time after finding out I was pregnant I was completely overwhelmed.  I didn’t even know where to begin.  The descriptions on the tags for strollers made me feel like I was shopping for a car, cup holders, shocks, brakes, 4 point harnesses, what does it all mean? 

Where can a parent go to get good advice on what gear is worth the extra money and where they can save their pennies?  How do you know what to look for in a crib, or a stroller, or a carseat?  One of the best sources can be your friends with kids.  They have tried this stuff out so they can be great resources.  You can also check out one of the many baby gear buying guides that are available online.  Another good source can be the people working at the baby store (if they don’t work on commission) they seem to get a lot of good training and have been around this stuff long enough to know what they are talking about. 

Here are a few online buying guides that can be very helpful.

• Babies R Us Buying Guide
• Baby Center Buying Guide
• Parents Picks at Baby Center
• Consumer Reports (you need to a membership)
• Mom-Tested Gear Guide at Parenting.com
• Baby Gear Guide at Baby Lifestyle 

Good luck in your search for just the right gear for you little one.  If you have any suggestions or tips for other parents please share them.