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First Time Parents Save Money on Baby Stuff Ideas

By Helen Wright

When I was expecting my first child, I was overly excited to the point that I was oblivious to how far back my tight budget was stretched. As soon as I found that I was pregnant for the first time, I started buying stuff – baby items, maternity clothes, nursery furnishings, and many many things that I thought was necessary.

Now that I am a mother to 4 beautiful children and speaking from personal experiences, there are a few things you really don’t need.

Ways to Save Money on Baby Stuff

Wait – My mother had advised me not to rush into buying anything straight away as people will often loan you what they have. There may be a couple of things that you want to buy brand new but know that specialty shops are geared to make you spend more. Since it is your first baby, many friends and relatives are usually generous in their gifts so hold it.

Maternity clothing – When you buy maternity clothes, make sure that the clothing is durable enough for more than one pregnancy, preferably basic and classic. Tops and bottoms are interchangeable with each other so that you dont have to worry about styles of each outfits. I had 3 basic skirts and a few pairs of basic pants to match with a good number of tops for all occasions, be it causal or formal.

Buy cheap – One great way to cut expenses on disposable and frequently used items such as diapers and baby wipes is to buy store brands. Leading brands and store brands are often made by the same manufacturer but sold much cheaper without frills.

Consider investing in good quality cloth diapers like Fuzzi Bunz and know the different types of diaper available. Familiarize yourself with cloth diapering by reading up. Cloth diapers are cheaper in the long run and greener to the environment. The savings really adds up over the diapering time of your child.

Look for bargains – Check weekly store fliers regularly and stock up on sale items. Basics like diapers, baby wash and wipes have a long shelf life so it makes sense to buy as many as possible if you have enough storage room. Keep receipts and exchange for a size larger, if diapers are too small.

My best friend and I were pregnant at the same time, so I joined a wholesale club in my area, bulk buy baby products and split the savings. However, it’s wise to calculate the cost of the annual membership versus your anticipated savings. Bulk buying also helps you reduce the number of trips you make to the grocery stores – you save both time and money.

Ask – It’s tempting to buy all outfits brand new for your baby, but babies outgrow clothing very quickly, and are notorious for spitting up and leaking on clothes, so think twice about making expensive purchases. Avoid casual shopping and browsing, both of which can lead to impulse buy. Shop with a list and stick to it.

Let your friends and relatives know that you don’t mind offers of hand-me down clothing. If you really have to purchase new, opt for more reasonably priced basics that are durable for everyday wear and tear. Also, choose gender neutral colours and patterns that can be passed down again from sibling to sibling.

Honestly, there’s no need to spend a lot of money on decorating the nursery. Yes, new parents are excited about the baby but it’s better to save more now to give more later.

Baby equipment is pricey and if you’re thinking about accepting used equipment or buying second hands at Ebay or Craiglist, be careful about previously owned older safety items such as car seats, cribs and similar type items. You may not be aware of potential manufacturer’s recalls or safety issues associated with these faulty products. As always, safety first before savings.

If you’re shopping for baby equipment at garage sales, be careful with old cribs that may have slats that are too far apart or even paint peeling. Also look out for loose parts that might cause choking or suffocate.

These ways to save money on baby stuff for new parents are by no means exhaustive. For first time moms, I suggest you join your local support group to exchange ideas with other moms.

Meanwhile, relax and enjoy this beautiful journey to welcome your new addition to the family!

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