What your baby will cost Jane Kemp It's estimated that it costs £180,000 to raise a child from birth to the age of 21, but don't panic - having a baby needn't cost a fortune.

Controlling costs

Keeping costs under control takes careful planning and a sensible approach to what you really need, what's nice to have, and what's a luxury. If you have friends with children ask them what equipment they found really useful and what was a waste of money. You can also borrow things from friends and buy things second-hand - the National Childbirth Trust for example, runs regular nearly new sales.

The essentials

• A place to sleep. Your baby will need a cot, mattress and bedding. Some parents prefer a Moses basket or carrycot for the first few months but there's no reason why your baby can't sleep in a cot straight away. You'll also need two fitted cot sheets, two flat sheets and two cellular blankets - duvets are not recommended for babies under one year old.
• Feeding your baby. If you're breastfeeding, you'll need to buy nursing bras and breast pads. For bottle feeding, invest in a set of six bottles, a steriliser and infant milk formula. You'll need to buy powdered milk until your baby is at least one year old.
• Dressing your baby. Eight vests, six stretch suits, two cardigans, and one shawl or all-in-one coat are the bare essentials. Don't waste money on designer outfits or cashmere jumpers - they're hard to wash and your baby will grow out of them very quickly.
• Getting out. A pram, a baby carrier or sling, or a pushchair is essential so you can go out with your baby. If you buy a pram choose a two-in-one model that will convert into a pushchair once your baby can sit up comfortably. Some prams have a lift-out carrycot that you can use in the house, while a travel system includes an infant car seat. Many parents use a baby sling, which secures your baby in a soft harness carried on your front . They're particularly useful in the early weeks before your baby gets too heavy. A carrier with a frame that you can strap to your back is for older babies.
• Nappies. Many parents opt for disposables but a growing number are investing in reusable nappies, which are more environmentally friendly. And if you can't face washing them yourself, there are laundry services that will deliver fresh nappies every week.
• Childcare. This is a major expense if you are planning to go back to work. See our section on finding and paying for childcare.

Things you can live without

If money is tight, you don't have to splash out on these:

• A changing station - change your baby on a towel on the floor or a table, but remember to prevent them rolling off.
• A baby bath - bath your baby in the sink but remember to wrap the taps in a towel.
• Expensive toys - babies don't need lots of toys and, as they grow, they're happy banging a saucepan with a wooden spoon. You can borrow toys from toy libraries (your local council will have details). Trips to parent and toddler groups will also allow your child to play with a variety of different toys.

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