One of the first things I wanted to figure out as new parents was how we could save money on baby gear. I’m not a money saving expert. In fact, I am much better at spending than saving. Well, I guess I have some idea on how to save so you can spend. Oh, don’t listen to me! Some of these money saving tips are actually quite good.
My Top 5 Baby Money Saving Tips
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#1 – Use cloth diapers – even part-time. I know, I know. I have been slacking on this lately and trust me – our budget feels it. Seriously though, the $200ish initial investment will save you way more than that in the long run.
#2 – Get rid of cable. Don’t be locked into paying high prices for limited, scheduled entertainment. There are plenty of cheaper options like Netflix, Hulu, Redbox, and YouTube (just to name a few) that can entertain you for less. Plus, with a baby you won’t watch as much TV of your choosing anymore anyway.
Rissa in the exersaucer we got from Freecycle in April 2011.
#3 – Get second hand clothing and gear. Okay, I am a total sucker for new clothes and gear, but really, you’ll save a ton if you get used items. Most stuff will probably be in very good condition still. Get items from family members, friends, your local Freecycle or Buy Nothing group, CraigsList, eBay, and maybe Goodwill. I never seem to find anything at Goodwill for babies anymore. Not sure why.
#4 – Sign up for Amazon Prime. You might think the annual fee is a bit crazy but you get FREE 2 day shipping on virtually everything you order. I love Amazon. We’re best friends. I order from there a lot and shudder to think what all that shipping would have cost me if I wasn’t a Prime Member. While I don’t always find cheaper prices on Amazon, sometimes there are really amazing deals. Plus, if you do use disposable diapers, Amazon Subscribe & Save is a great deal AND those diapers arrive on your doorstep without your sleep deprived mind needing to think about it.
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#5 – Breastfeed and/or make your own baby food. I understand not everyone can breastfed or doesn’t want to nurse, but formula is expensive! And after baby starts on solids, it will save you money to mash and grind up your own food. It’s honestly not that bad. Jarred baby food also adds up, so even if you make your own part of the time you’ll save yourself some dough. Bananas, avocados, mangoes, peas, carrots and butternut squash are all quite easy to smash up for your little one. And mashed potatoes!
What money saving tips do you have for new parents?
Darcy is the founder of “Life With Darcy and Brian,” where she combines her love for education, board games, and crafting to create engaging learning experiences for kids. Her creative projects and writing have been featured in outlets like The Toy Insider, CafeMom, Mom.com, Parents.com, Country Living, and The Pioneer Woman.
Leeann Minton
Saturday 17th of December 2016
Make your own baby wipes. I have saved so much money. Half a roll of paper towels, water, and coconut oil (olive oil works too).
Darcy Zalewski
Monday 19th of December 2016
Baby wipes can really add up. Thanks for the great tip on making your own, Leeann!
Tara
Tuesday 9th of February 2016
these are some great tips! im ready to drop baby #2 and though i can't bring myself to use cloth diapers I've definitly learned the benefits of using 2nd hand gear. As some of your other commentors have mentioned, experation dates are something to be cautious of. But all that takes is a little extra research on something that could potentially save hundreds of dollars! With my first son i insisted on brand new everything, ultimately learning each item only was useful for a matter of weeks. And then I'd sell or give a brandnew item away.
I actually just refurbished a carseat for my little one. Maybe your readers could find this tuturial useful?
http://www.lifethroughpassion.com/car-seat-makeover/
Darcy Zalewski
Tuesday 9th of February 2016
Checking expiration dates and checking recalls are really helpful when considering second hand gear. Being aware of warranties and safety information is always a must too! Thanks for reading and commenting, Tara. :)
Elle
Saturday 20th of April 2013
Those are great tips and the one about cable applies to everyone not just moms.
I am also a lot better at spending than saving..but saving is cool! The easier it is to do the more likely it is I am to do it though...
Darcy Zalewski
Tuesday 23rd of April 2013
Very true, getting rid of cable would be good for many people. I'm better at spending too... I almost wrote a list of spending tips instead haha
Liza @ Views From the 'Ville
Friday 19th of April 2013
Only buy the essentials (place to sleep, feeding supplies, a few onesies/sleepers, etc.) before baby is born. You'll find a lot of the things you thought were must-haves aren't needed at all, and would have been a waste of money.
Darcy Zalewski
Tuesday 23rd of April 2013
Very true! They have so many products out there... and the must haves aren't all musts... heck even the "musts" for each baby has varied!
Chandelle
Friday 19th of April 2013
We plan to/already do all of these things once baby is here except cloth diaper :) I just might add, however, please please please do not buy a used car seat. My hubby and I were browsing for baby stuff at a thrift store and found a car seat....that had expired in 2007!!!! We almost bought it to throw away just so no one could get it...
Darcy Zalewski
Tuesday 23rd of April 2013
Yes, be very cautious about used car seats!