Money Saving Tips for Expecting Parents

Planning for the arrival of your little one can be fun and exciting. Picking out a name, decorating the nursery or baby space, and purchasing clothing in anticipation of your new bundle can make the time special. However, preparing for baby can also be expensive.


Fortunately, there are ways to save and cut expenses when preparing for baby’s arrival. Take a look at these money saving tips for expecting parents.

Only Buy Necessities

It’s tempting, especially if this is your first child, to want to purchase anything and everything that may make things more convenient for you and optimize comfort for your little one. The fact of the matter is, you won’t use half of the non-essential gadgets you buy or register for. Stick to essentials instead like diapers, wipes, bottles (if you’re bottle feeding) and clothing basics.

Plan Ahead on Diapers and Wipes

Diapers and wipes are essential items you are going to use a lot of, and it can save you a lot of money at the end of your pregnancy if you begin purchasing these items as you go throughout your pregnancy. Purchase a mixture of diaper sizes to keep on hand but be sure not to buy too many newborn diapers as this size isn’t often used long and some babies skip this size altogether.

Shop Thriftily

Babies tend to stain almost every piece of clothing they wear with spit-up and diaper mishaps; because of this, it’s not essential that all clothing be purchased new. You can save a lot of money by hitting your local thrift stores for some second-hand outfits.

Always Accept Hand-Me-Downs

If you’re lucky enough to have a friend or family member with a slightly older baby, fully take advantage of hand-me-downs whenever possible. Free clothing for your little one can certainly put less strain on your budget.

Arrange for a Breast Pump

The ACA (Affordable Care Act) mandated that insurances provide coverage on breast pumps. So, if you have insurance and are planning on breastfeeding, make sure you arrange this with your healthcare provider in advance of baby’s arrival or soon after.

Skip Excessive Maternity Clothing Purchases

Maternity clothes can be cute and very comfortable; however, they are also often more expensive than regular clothing, and you probably won’t be wearing them too often after baby’s birth. Treat yourself to a few cute outfits and pieces you can rotate throughout your pregnancy but try to remain conservative with your purchases.

Skip the Cute Baby Shoes

Baby shoes are cute, and it can be hard to pass up buying a pair. However, your newborn probably won’t wear the shoes often enough to justify a purchase, and you may find they won’t get worn at all before baby outgrows them.

Sign Up for Formula Coupons

If you visit the websites for popular formula manufacturers, most of them have savings and offers you can sign up for. Formula can be an expensive addition to your grocery bill, so coupons, vouchers, and samples being mailed to your home can go a long way in savings.

Check into WIC

WIC (women, infants, children) is a program for low-income mothers and families that can help cover the cost of formula and baby food. If you’re concerned about affording the cost of feeding your newborn, this is an excellent program to check into and see if you qualify.

Ask for Samples

Your baby’s pediatrician will often have samples of baby items and formula that they are happy to give away. It never hurts to ask at your baby’s next appointment if their doctor has any freebies available.

Make Your Own Baby Food

Once your baby begins to eat solids, baby food can become a large chunk of your grocery bill. Consider adding a baby food maker to your kitchen essentials so you can puree fruits and veggies at home without the added expense.

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