BABIES ON A BUDGET

Nearly everything to do with baby can be found at Balgowlah’s Babies on a Budget, with savings across the board of between five and 20 per cent. The range covers prams, car seats, cots, nursery furniture and linen, safety equipment, timber toys, gifts, accessories and a small selection of children’s wear. Stock is made up of new, factory seconds, a few samples and some brand-name pre-loved baby equipment, all of which complies with current safety standards. Quality brand names include Gro-Years, Mountain Buggy, Peg Perego, Steelcraft, Childcare, Maclaren, Valco and Safe-n-Sound. The store can source special items (including specially sized custom-made mattresses) and can usually obtain them fast. Car seats are a store specialty and are 10 to 15 per cent below retail prices. When we called, Safe-n-Sound car seats (0 to 4 years) were priced from $199. There’s even the option to hire baby capsules. We also spotted new cots from $289, Maclaren strollers discounted by up to $50, and a new range of front and native baby carriers from Hugabubs and BabyBjörn priced well below retail prices. Phone orders can be taken.