Saving for the baby is one of the most important aspects of becoming a parent. Adding another member to the family comes with a lot of financial responsibilities. While you are pregnant, you must focus on your own medical expenses and insurance claims.
You also need to make sure you have enough money to cover the first few months of your baby’s life, since you can’t escape from baby gear like getting the best stroller and car seat. Your pregnancy period before your child’s arrival is a great time to start planning.
Here are six simple ways you can save when expecting a baby!
6 Great Ways To Save While Expecting A Baby
#1 Say No to Hospital Add-Ons
It may be tempting to say yes to nearly everything the hospital staff suggests, including private room stays. Learn to say no to add-ons that may seem to be necessary but are actually optional. You can always seek advice from other moms and read up on guides so you have a better idea of what is considered necessary or optional in preparation for labor.
#2 Go For Hand-Me-Downs
Ask friends, family members or co-workers if they have any hand-me-downs they can spare. Don’t be shy! It’s pretty normal to ask for hand-me-downs for baby clothes, furniture, and toys, especially since most families will outgrow them and will be looking for a place to pass those items down or donate them away. You’ll be doing them and yourself a favor!
When you’re shopping for clothes, you’ll be able to find second-hand clothing too in thrift stores so keep that option in mind. And when you’re buying things for the baby, make sure that you don’t spend more than you need to. This will save you money, which you’ll be putting towards the needs of the newborn.
#3 Spend Only On Necessary Baby Gear, Not Nice-To-Haves Items or Accessories
Buy more only on the essentials, like diapers. Rather than spending on every product you can afford, you can save money on essential baby items. It is easy to buy disposable items, but consider the quality of these items first.
When buying baby items, choose those made from durable materials. This way, they will last longer and require less maintenance. Moreover, they are more affordable than disposables. If you’re planning for a new arrival, remember to take care of your finances while you’re expecting. If you’re not planning on a new baby, then you’ll save money in the long run.
Things like a fancy luxury stroller is a nice-to-have due to its better comfort but if your wallet doesn’t allow it, don’t force it upon yourself to get one. Instead, opt for a good stroller that can last for years.
For clothes, your baby won’t need a fluffy blanket nor plenty of new outfits. As long as they fit and are functional, a few sets of simple clothing will do, since your baby will outgrow them soon anyway.
Don’t spend money on expensive comforters or crib pillows or get too many baby bottles. Even for preparing your baby’s nursery, try DIY projects to save money while creating the nursery’s atmosphere. You can even make some decorations yourself and personalize it to fit your style and personality.
#4 Breastfeed And Make Your Own Baby Food
Anything related to baby including baby food will definitely be expensive so start looking into baby food recipes. Most of the time, it’s actually pretty simple to make, and only requires a few ingredients. If you are a working mom, consider purchasing baby supplies in bulk. You can cook extra vegetables and use the leftovers to create baby food.
Also, try to breastfeed as much as you can. Breastfeeding is good for both mom and baby since breastmilk is highly nutritious and the nursing can improve the mother-child bond. On top of that, you’ll be saving a lot of money from buying baby formula from the start.
#5 Grab Those Coupons And Watch Out For Great Sales
Check out coupons and take advantage of them. Purchasing diapers and formula is a necessity for a baby, and most of the time, manufacturers tend to offer coupons and discounts on those items. Some brands provide rebates upon sign up, so be sure to check how you can make use of their offers before purchasing them. This will ensure you receive the most current and relevant coupons.
You should also keep an eye out for sales, and one easy way to do this is to join mom clubs that constantly update on the best deals around. This will save you money on everything from diapers to baby clothes and baby equipment.
#6 Buy Furniture That Can Serve Multiple Roles
Think of whether a particular baby furniture can have dual roles or more when you want to get one. Perhaps the changing table can be adjusted to become a storage unit? Or maybe the baby high chair can be converted into a regular chair?
Look ahead and check the item’s functionality so that you can save more bucks with each purchase. Another great example include cribs that can serve as a good toddler bed when your child grows up, reducing the need to shop for a new bed.
Conclusion
The cost of a baby’s first year of life is usually high but you can choose to manage the budget well. It is essential to have a plan in place before you give birth. This way, you’ll be able to avoid any unexpected costs. It is also important to make a budget and make it a habit to discuss your expenses with your spouse.
Hope these six tips serve as a good reminder for expectant moms and dads, and happy parenthood to you!
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