Baby care in general can be very expensive. That’s why, given the opportunity, new parents should take advantage of thrift techniques when it comes to shopping for baby items. Baby equipment consists of a variety of items including; baby diapers, baby clothes, strollers, playpens and much more. Baby equipment is any item that is used to meet all the needs of the baby. Here are some key tips and tricks on how to save money on baby gear.
1. Avoid buying unnecessary baby items
This includes any item that is not essential or can be substituted with an equally good alternative. For example, a wipe warmer, a baby bottle sterilizer, a dishwasher can serve the same purpose. Also, a baby monitor, especially if you live in a small apartment.
2. Structure your baby clothes purchases
The first thing you should do is stock up 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 down first and then you can add more fun stuff as you go. Also, shop at stores that offer clothes at cheaper prices, 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 a number of places where mothers and pregnant women can get gifts. Various diaper brands have various programs that help save money spent on diapers. For example, Huggies’ Enjoy the Ride program allows you to earn points after you buy her diapers, and then you can redeem the points for free items like toys and books.
4. Choose the cloth diaper
The most reliable cloth diapers can cost as little as a dollar a piece. They have a high absorption rate and are also very durable. Cloth diapers save money because you can get free samples by asking the cloth diaper company, especially if you have questions about them. Free samples can also be obtained from organizations like Giving Diapers and Giving Hope.
5. Baby formula
When it comes to baby formula, focus on the ones that are most affordable, but also offer the required quality of nutrition for your baby. In addition, some companies offer free infant formula to mothers to build customer loyalty. Nearby hospitals also give free baby formula to mothers. An example of brands that offer affordable yet nutritious baby formulas are; Family and Target Up & Up.
6. Online classifieds and swaps
You can find local sharing groups on Facebook and Yahoo! These groups create avenues for moms to sell baby items that are no longer in use. Most of the time the prices offered in these groups are cheaper, and sometimes the baby items are gift items. Moms also share information about coupons and other deals they can get at local stores. An example of these websites is Craigslist’s baby and 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 don’t end up with several of the same items, which can be difficult to dispose of or trade. 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 out-of-town friends and family.
8. Hit the sales
When you shop for deals or use coupons, you can consistently save 20-30 percent!
9. Test drives
Always be sure to take a test drive before purchasing any baby gear. Baby carriages and cribs, for example, are sensitive goods. 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. Shop at reasonable prices 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 nursing pillows that can be used alternatively to stabilize the baby when she is learning to sit up.
Follow these tips to make parenting and baby care an easy process. When you can cut costs and save money on baby gear, financial stress is also reduced. Happy parents, happy babies!
No Comment