Taking care of your baby in general can be very expensive. That’s why, given the opportunity, new parents should take advantage of savings techniques when it comes to shopping for baby items. The baby kit consists of a variety of items including; baby diapers, baby clothes, strollers, playgrounds and much more. Baby equipment is any item that is used to meet all of the baby’s needs. Here are some key tips and tricks on how to save money on baby supplies.
1. Avoid buying unnecessary baby items
This includes any item that is not essential or can be substituted for an equally good alternative. For example, a wipe warmer, a bottle sterilizer, a dishwasher can serve the same purpose. Also, a baby monitor, especially if you live in a small apartment.
2. Structure the purchase of baby clothes
The first thing to do is stock your baby’s layette. A layette is the basic necessity of the baby’s wardrobe. For example: blankets (3-4), socks (6-8 pairs), pajamas / nightgowns (6-8 pieces). The goal here is to get the basics first and then add more fun stuff as you go. Also, shop at stores that offer cheaper prices for clothing, for example Perfectly Preemie or Carter’s.
3. Free baby stuff
Do your research and find out where you can get free, quality, and reliable baby supplies. There are several places where mothers and pregnant women can get gifts. Several brands of diapers have various programs that help save money spent on diapers. For example, the Huggies Enjoy the Ride program allows you to earn points after purchasing your diapers and then you can redeem them for free items like toys and books.
4. Choose cloth diaper
The most reliable cloth diapers can cost as little as $ 1 a piece. They have a high absorption rate and are also very durable. Cloth diapers save money because you can get free samples by requesting it from the cloth diaper company, especially if you have questions about them. You can also get free samples from organizations like Giving Diapers and Giving Hope.
5. Baby formula
When it comes to baby formulas, focus on the ones that are most affordable, but also offer the quality of nutrition required for your baby. In addition, some companies offer free infant formula to mothers to maintain customer loyalty. Nearby hospitals also offer free baby formulas to mothers. An example of brands that offer affordable yet nutritious baby formulas are; Enfamil and Target Up & Up.
6. Classified ads and online exchanges
You can find local exchange groups on Facebook and Yahoo! These groups create avenues for moms to sell baby items that are no longer used. Most of the time the prices offered in these groups are cheaper, and sometimes baby items are gift items. Moms also share information regarding coupons and other offers that you can get at local stores. An example of these websites is the Craigslist baby + kids section, where you can find toys, nursery furniture, and baby clothes.
7. Have a record
For your baby shower, it is key to have a registry of your baby’s gifts. This ensures that you won’t end up with multiple items of the same, which can be difficult to dispose of or exchange. Instead, you only get the things you really need. Amazon, for example, has a wide variety of baby items to choose from and great shipping deals for friends and family who live out of town.
8. Hit the sales
When you shop for deals or use coupons, you can consistently save 20-30 percent!
9. Test drive
Always be sure to take a test drive before purchasing any baby gear. Strollers and cribs, for example, are sensitive items. You can always ask friends who use similar baby items for reviews. Some of the best cribs and strollers can be purchased online at Amazon.
10. Make smart bargain purchases by buying in bulk.
Diapers and baby formula, for example, can be purchased in bulk.
11. Buy used baby items
This recommendation applies to items such as car seats or cribs.
12. Buy items that can multitask.
This includes three-in-one convertible car seats, which can be purchased on Amazon. Also breastfeeding pillows that can be used alternately to stabilize the baby when he is learning to sit up.
Follow these tips to make parenting and caring for your baby an easy process. When you can cut costs and save money on baby supplies, financial stress is also reduced. Happy father, happy baby!