Becoming a new parent is an exciting time, but it can also be expensive! There are many things you need to buy before your little one arrives, and it’s easy to go overboard.
In this blog post, we will discuss 16 money-saving tips for new parents. These tips will help you save money on everything from diapers to daycare!
1. Skip Newborn Clothes
Avoid spending money on newborn clothes.
Babies grow quickly and they will be in newborn clothes for such a short time! Instead, shop for secondhand baby clothes or wait until your baby is a few months old before buying new clothes.
2. Say Yes to Cloth Diapers
Use cloth diapers instead of disposable diapers. Cloth diapers are much cheaper in the long run and they are better for the environment. You can even use cloth diapers that you already have around the house, like old towels or receiving blankets.
3. Breastfeed if Possible
Breastfeeding is free and it’s very beneficial for both mother and child. Not only will you save money on formula, but you’ll also bond with your baby while providing them with the best nutrition possible.
4. Make Your Own Baby Food
Making your own baby food is cheaper and healthier than buying commercial baby food. It’s easy to make your own baby food with a food processor or blender. You can also freeze leftover homemade baby food for future meals.
5. Join a Baby Swap Group
Joining a baby swap group is a great way to save money on baby gear. You can trade clothes, toys, and equipment with other parents in the group. This is a great way to get rid of things you no longer need and to find gently used items for your baby.
6. Shop at Yard Sales
Yard sales are a great place to find cheap, used baby items. You can often find clothes, toys, and equipment for a fraction of the price you would pay new.
7. Use Coupons
Using coupons can help you save money on baby supplies. You can find coupons in newspapers and online. Many stores also offer their own coupons that you can use to save even more.
8. Join a Warehouse Club
Joining a warehouse club like Costco or Sam’s Club can help you save money on diapers, formula, and other baby essentials. You’ll need to buy these items in bulk, but the savings will be worth it.
9. Get a Babysitter Swap Group Together
Getting together with a group of friends to swap babysitting services is a great way to save money on child care. You can trade off nights or days so that each parent gets a break. This is also a great way to socialize your child without spending money on a babysitter.
10. Check with Your Employer for any parenting allowances
Some employers offer benefits for new parents, such as paid leave or flexible work hours. These benefits can save you money and help you transition into parenthood.
This doesn’t apply just to the mother (or person who carries the child), but also the partner. Many employees offer parenting leave, which means that your partner can be at home with you and help out after the child is born.
11. Co-sleeper Crib
You can save a lot of money by using a co-sleeper crib instead of buying a separate crib and bassinet. A co-sleeper crib is attached to your bed so that your baby can sleep in your room. This is a great way to bond with your baby and to get some extra sleep! Choosing a co-sleeper crib can save you hundreds of dollars.
12. Make Your Own Baby Wipes
Making your own baby wipes is cheaper than buying them commercially. It’s also easy to do! You can use old cloth diapers or rags, or you can buy special baby wipe fabrics. Also, be sure to use a mild, unscented soap when making your own wipes.
13. Use a Laundry Service
Using a laundry service can save you time and money. You can have your baby’s clothes washed, dried, and folded for a reasonable price. This is especially helpful if you don’t have time to do laundry yourself.
14. Get a Nanny Share
A nanny share is when two or more families share a nanny. This is a great way to reduce the cost of child care. It’s also a good way to socialize your child with other children their age.
Even if you can’t afford a nanny, you can pair up with another family and help to baby sit for each other, taking it in turns to look after your children.
15. Join a Mommy Group
Joining a mommy group is a great way to meet other parents and to get support. Many groups offer discounts on baby supplies and services.
15. Don’t feel pressurised to buy everything for your child
You might be feeling pushed into buying the latest baby invention, clothes or equipment, but in reality, babies need very little in their first few months. You can save money by simply buying only the necessary things your baby truly needs. Everything else is a luxury that’s probably not necessary.
There are many ways to save money as a new parent. By being creative and resourceful, you can find ways to save on everything from childcare to baby supplies. With a little effort, you can stretch your budget and make it work for you and your family.
RELATED
Stay in touch
Hope this post inspires you and of course, I’d love to know what you think! Let me know in the comments below or find me on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter and add the hashtag #practicalfrugality so that I can see your post.
Or why not subscribe to my weekly newsletter with frugal living tips and recipes straight to your mailbox.
Magdalena
Leave a Reply