Disclaimer: I’m writing this based on my own experience and research. Consult your pediatrician.
My baby has just turned 4 months and I have decided to start her on rice cereal until 6 months.Then introduce oatmeal cereal, veggies and fruit. The current recommendation is to start solids at 6 months (American Academy of Pediatrics). It is also suggested that you wait 3-4 days before introducing a new food.
When starting solids, you don’t need a lot of stuff. Most of the things you need, can be found at Dollar Tree (DT). I got a pack of food storage snack bowls (DT), spoons (DT), one 6 pack of disposable bibs (Optional) (DT), vinyl feeding bib w/ pocket (Tuesday Morning. 2-Pack $4.99), and Gerber Organic Rice Cereal (Kroger. I got it on markdown. It was not expired and I used a coupon).
So, that’s really all you need. Also, coupons are your best friend. Even if your baby is not quite ready for solid foods, there’s nothing wrong with getting ready early. Infant food has a long shelf life.
**Mom Tip: Infant cereal has to be used within 30 days. Write the day you opened it or the day you need to toss it on the cereal with a Sharpie.
A great resource for more solid advice is pureelove.com.