When’s the Right Time to Start Baby Shopping?
Short answer? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
Long answer? Let’s talk about what feels right – and why weeks 20–28 might just be the sweet spot for many first-time parents.
First things first: there's no pressure
If you're feeling like everyone else has a pram picked out, a colour-coded spreadsheet, and a nursery mood board... take a breath. You are not behind. There is no "perfect" time to start shopping for baby things, only what works for you.
At Bumpstart, we meet parents who are ready to dive in at 14 weeks and others who are just getting started at 34. Whatever your timeline, we’re here to help you feel calm, informed, and supported.
Why 20–28 weeks might feel just right
While there’s no fixed rule, many parents tell us this window felt like the perfect time to start thinking seriously about baby shopping.
Here’s why:
🟡 You’ve had your 20-week scan – which often brings a bit of clarity and confidence.
🟡 Your energy levels are (hopefully) back after those first-trimester wobbles.
🟡 You still have time – nothing feels too rushed or panicked.
🟡 It gives you breathing space to compare, test, ask questions and plan delivery times.
🟡 You can lock in stock early if there's something you love – especially helpful for prams or furniture that can have longer lead times.
This is often when browsing turns into planning and when visits to baby shops start to feel exciting instead of overwhelming.
What if you're not there yet?
Maybe you’re earlier in your pregnancy and still figuring things out. Or maybe you’re later on and haven’t bought a thing yet. It’s OK. Really.
Whether you’re full of lists or have no idea where to begin, we’ve got you.
At Bumpstart, we’re not here to sell you a hundred things you don’t need. We’re here to:
✔️ Help you make sense of the options
✔️ Let you try things out in person
✔️ Talk through what you really need (and what can wait)
✔️ Offer flexible payment options so you can spread the cost
✔️ Be your support team, not your stress trigger
Ready when you are
Whenever the time is right for you, you’re welcome to pop in for a relaxed browse, a chat, or a full-on demo session. You can book a one-to-one appointment with us (no pressure, no rushing, no waiting) or just drop in whenever suits.
Let’s make baby shopping feel less like a to-do list and more like a confidence boost 💛
You’ve got this. And we’ve got you.
Visit us in-store or get in touch to plan your visit – we’d love to help.