Figuring out how to save money raising a baby is definitely possible.
Having kids is expensive, but if you’re wondering how to save money raising a baby, there are plenty of things you can do. In fact, you can save money without having to sacrifice the essentials you provide your child. The following list will serve you well for saving money, but still providing your child everything he or she needs and wants.
Sign Up for Reward and Loyalty Programs
Parents have a huge selection to choose from when it comes to baby supplies. With so many choices out there, companies will bend over backward to make you a loyal customer. As a result, they have loyalty or reward programs that provide discounts, coupons, free samples and “points” you can redeem for free stuff. Even if it doesn’t earn your loyalty, you can save a few bucks here and there. That can really add up over time.
Don’t be Afraid to Buy Secondhand
Yard sales, garage sales, rummage sales and thrift stores are excellent sources of buying baby items for really, really cheap. Bottles, cleaning tools, strollers, playpens, baby monitors and clothing are staples of thrift stores and rummage sales. Often, you can get these items brand new for much cheaper than retail. And if you buy the items from a yard or garage sale, you can even haggle on the price, saving even more.
Even used items, such as baby clothes, are still worth buying. Babies grow fast, and so clothes usually receive very little use before a baby grows out of them. Is it worth paying $25 for a brand new outfit when you can get it for $1.50? And since your little one is growing so fast, he or she may only get a chance to wear it a few times themselves before outgrowing it.
Borrow Pricier Items
Things like breast pumps can be expensive when new, easily costing several hundred dollars. But it’s not unsanitary to borrow a pump, as long as you don’t share the plastic attachments and tubing. So for the very reasonable cost of a new accessory set, you can use what is essentially a brand new breast pump at a significantly lower price.
Buy in Bulk
Items like diapers and baby formula are a lot cheaper when purchased in bulk. Just make sure you buy them from a retailer that has a good return policy. This will allow you to get a full refund or store credit just in case you buy too much and need to exchange the item for something different.
Get a Local Library Card
Your local library is an excellent source of free entertainment. There’s no need to buy new books and DVDs when you can check them out for free from your local library.
Buy Furniture with Multiple Uses
The convertible crib is the perfect example of a piece of furniture you purchase just once but can use for a significant part of your child’s early years. So instead of buying two beds, just buy one that can serve as both a crib and toddler bed.
Make Your Own Baby Food
Buying baby food in jars, pouches and tubs is super convenient and easy. But if you have the time to spare, you can save money raising a baby in the long run by making your own baby food with fresh fruits and vegetables. Making it in bulk and freezing the extra for later consumption in a few days or weeks makes it even easier.
Breastfeed if Possible
Breastfeeding is not easy, with not all mothers able to do it. However, one of its advantages, in addition to being healthy for the child, is saving money on expensive baby formula.
Visit your nearest Title Tree store for more tips on saving money raising a baby – or if you need a little help making ends meet right about now.