I'm having a baby, not opening a nursery: The pressure to buy everything before becoming a mother
I have never considered myself a minimalist. I like nice things, enjoy shopping and can easily convince myself that a purchase is an investment rather than an indulgence. But since becoming pregnant with my first child, I have found myself navigating a level of consumerism unlike anything I have experienced before. It started with a spreadsheet. A friend sent over a document curated by a…
Having a baby comes with a whirlwind of consumerism unlike anything previously experienced. A friend shared a meticulously curated spreadsheet, a work of type-A art, listing everything needed for a newborn. This list, filled with new terms like Artipoppe and Isofix, comes with hefty price tags, designed to address problems that may not exist.
Research reveals how social expectations of being a good mother can be enforced through marketing. With lists and new jargon, brands introduce concerns parents may not have considered and position their products as solutions. For first-time mothers, entering a new market without prior knowledge can make it easy to be persuaded that they need everything.
Marketing on social media can add unnecessary worries, and the excitement of preparing for a baby can lead to overbuying. However, experts suggest that knowledge, support, and a good night's sleep are more crucial for readiness than purchasing products. Opting for items that grow with the child and exploring second-hand options not only saves money but also has environmental benefits.
Written by urgent.news from The National Business's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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