Budgeting For Baby
July 19, 2008 by Tracy
Filed under Frugal Living
Ways to Save Pennies when Baby is on the Way
You’ve just received the news—you’re pregnant! Babies are cute, but they certainly are not cheap. Now that there is a new addition on the way, it’s a smart idea to learn to save money wherever you can.
Most new parents want to run out and buy up everything for their baby all at once. This is a wonderful idea but not very realistic. Before you buy, see what you can borrow from other family members and friends.
Clothing is an item that you can certainly save money on. When babies are young, they don’t need fancy sleepers. Invest in all-in-one sleepwear and undershirts. And, as for expensive little outfits – babies can’t read the tag to know whether the outfit came from Gymboree or whether it was purchased at Target. Yes, a few cute baby outfits are fantastic for portraits, but, for every day playtime, inexpensive clothing fits the bill.
If you want or need more expensive items for your baby, add those to your wish list for the baby shower. Let your family and friends pull together and purchase them for you. Include the crib, high chair, playpen, car seat, and stroller on your list.
Clip coupons. Money-saving coupons are available each week in the newspaper and baby magazines. These can be a lifesaver for items such as diapers, baby wipes, and baby food. Online, subscribe to websites for new or expecting parents to receive bonus offers and free samples.
Breastfeeding saves money. Every month that you nourish your baby this way, is a month that you do not need to buy expensive formula. Wait until baby is born before purchasing bottles. If the bottle nipple does not feel like your own, baby may not use it. (If you are unable to breastfeed, see the coupon tip above.)
Avoid buying newborn diapers. Depending on your baby’s birth weight, newborn diapers may be too small at the outset. Purchase diapers that are the next size up.
Moms, resist the urge to buy trendy maternity clothing. The new fashions are a sight better than what your mother had to wear, but are they practical? Most women don’t need anything different from their normal clothing until they are well into the pregnancy. At that stage, see if you can borrow some outfits from a girlfriend, borrow from your husband, or shop on eBay for slightly used outfits.
Saving money before baby arrives means more money will be accessible when it really counts.
We were so blessed with hand-me-downs for our son (and still are)…We hardly had to buy any of the big stuff except nursery furniture! I scouted lots of second hand stores when I was pregnant, too. Being budget-concious when I was pregnant was really important since we were living on one income!
Thank goodness for hand-me-downs. Dh’s buddy had a ton left over from his dd’s first year or so… Jackpot! We didn’t have to buy any clothing for a whole year! I’m still sooo greatful for that. Formula and diapers were kicking our hinnies that first year, so that really made a difference for us.