ParentingHub

If you're having a baby and trying to do it on a budget, these tips and tricks might help you save a lot of money.

The common consensus seems to be that babies are very expensive, and that having a baby will break the bank. This doesn't have to be true – babies can be expensive, but with a bit of planning, some smart shopping, and utilizing your resources, you can easily plan for parenthood on a budget.

Check with your friends who have had babies
If you have friends who have children, ask if they're looking to get rid of baby furniture, toys, clothes, etc. Many people, especially if they're done having children, are anxious to get rid of all that baby paraphernalia that takes up so much space in storage. Some friends may even lend you items with the stipulation that when your baby outgrows them, you return the borrowed items. Regardless, be sure to check the items over carefully to ensure that they're in good repair, and perhaps only ask friends that you know take proper care of their possessions.

Don't buy now what you can buy later
Many parents are so anxious to prepare for the arrival of their little bundle of joy that they go overboard with buying things. It's very tempting to buy everything you think you'll need for the first several months, or even the first year, but there's time for that. By not buying all of these things before the baby comes, you're spacing out the spending and not going broke before the baby even arrives. For example, if you're going to breast feed your baby, you won't need to buy bottles for a few months. You don't need clothes above the three month size – typically, newborns and small infants will fit in clothes anywhere from newborn size to three months for awhile, and you can buy bigger sizes as you need them.

You also won't need things like a highchair, playpen or toys for older babies for quite some time. Get these things as you need them, or as finances allow. Similarly, don't buy things you don't need at all just because it's on a list or you think you might need it. For example, change tables aren't really necessary. Ask the people you know who are parents how often they actually use their change table. Most will probably tell you that they change their baby wherever they happen to be at the time – they throw a change mat or towel down and change the baby on the floor, on the couch, on the bed, basically on any solid, sturdy, safe surface.

Take advantage of baby shower gifts
If a friend or family member is having a baby shower for you and you know in advance, ask for necessities like nappies, clothes, small pieces of furniture, etc. Pretty gifts like keepsake boxes, photo albums and frames are nice and make beautiful gifts, but when you're left to buy the bulk of the necessity items on your own, it can get really expensive. You might want to take advantage of baby registries so you're sure to get exactly what you need. If you don't want to or can't register, chances are some of your friends will ask what you want or need – instead of giving your friends a list and risking duplicate items, tell each friend something different. What you tell them could be based on their financial situation – if you have a friend who doesn't have much money, give them one of the less expensive items on your list.

Shopping tips for sticking to your baby budget
Many parents, especially first-time parents think they need to get the best of everything for their baby, including expensive designer clothes, brand name nappies, lotions, etc., but this isn't necessary. The no-name or store brands are often just as good, and they're much cheaper. Shops dedicated to used children's items can be an invaluable resource to parents. These shops usually have amazing deals on everything you'll need for your baby.

Buy items in bulk whenever possible.
You'll go through things like nappies and wipes very quickly and it would save money and time if you have lots available. Look for economy size items, as well – large bottles of baby shampoo, baby wash, baby lotion, etc. The large bottles can be heavy and unruly, so you might want to consider pouring small amounts into a regular-sized reusable bottle and refilling it as needed.

Ask your friends who are parents for tips and tricks on saving money.
Many parents will have learned a few secrets along the way that they're more than happy to share. For example, your town or city might have a discount baby supply shop – many people are unaware of these small shops because they do the majority of their business through word of mouth.
There are many simple ways that you can cut costs and save money when preparing for the arrival of your baby.