5 Ways To Save While Providing For Your Baby

Times are tough and without a doubt, one of the pressing concerns at the forefront of any new parent’s mind is how to provide when money is tight.

According to the Department of Agriculture, on average, parents can expect to dish out nearly $300,000 from the time a baby is born until he or she reaches the age of 17. Compare this figure to just nine years ago in 2000 when experts calculated the 17-year expense of a child at $165,000.

The first year of a baby’s life can quickly add up to nearly $12,000 in expenses including babysitters, food, clothes, and the infant’s share of transportation, utilities, and housing.

The good news is there are ways to save while providing for your baby. The following five tips are designed to keep money in your pocket without compromising the life you envision for your child.

Secondhand Doesn’t Mean Second-rate

Think twice before you decline hand-me-down items offered by friends and family – especially when they are for your baby. Infants tend to grow so fast and have very little time actually do damage to their clothing. Sure some clothes are lost to inevitable food stains. But overall, the clothing isn’t worn out.

Even better, if someone offers you clothes in styles you aren’t fond of or clothes for a different gender, sort through the items, keep what you want and take the rest to your local second hand store that will trade you cash or store credit for the items.

Also, don’t be afraid to explore the aisles of local second hand stores (or online auction sites such as eBay). Keep in mind there are hidden treasures waiting for you to find them. Ask the store cashier when they usually put new merchandise out and make it a point to be at the store during this time so you have first pick of quality clothes for a less expensive price.

Keep It Simple

Most stores would like for you to believe that you need an assortment of products to properly care for your child. This is not the case. If you have a car seat, crib, diapers and milk for your baby, the rest can wait.

Don’t Fill The Toy Box

It’s easy to lavish our babies with fun and exciting toys, but the truth is your baby’s favorite toy is most likely you or a caregiver. Your baby doesn’t need all those other items and while it would be nice to provide such toys, it isn’t necessary.

Opt For Breast Milk

According to Consumer Report, parents spend nearly $2,000 on formula per baby each year. While some women have medical reasons that prevent them from providing their child with breast milk, most do not. Consider either breast feeding your child or pumping your breast milk to bottle-feed.

Sign Up For Coupons

There are plenty of manufactures out their who would love to send you coupons and welcome kits (that include free samples) for you and your child. Don’t be shy. Sign up to receive your free gifts.