by Ziana, a freelance writer via Creative-Reporter

Like all first time moms-to-be, I often walk down endless aisles of baby products, confused about which brand to buy and unsure if my baby will really need a certain product or not. Relatives and friends who are mothers have pitched in with their helpful advice, but when I put that together it seems like my 'must get baby stuff list' is just growing longer and longer.

Sometimes sensing my growing anxiety, my nurse-midwife, herself a mother of three, often reassures me not to worry too much about getting dozens of fancy baby gadgets and gear, but to understand that above all a baby needs lots of love and a cosy, nurturing environment. Every time I go into a slight panic mode wondering if I have bought all the right things for my baby in advance, I remind myself of her advice.

For all the moms out there, I would love to hear any feedback about your experience preparing for your first baby. Which products did you find invaluable and which ones do you think are generally over-rated?