How to Save Money on Baby Items: 30 Handy Tips!
Let’s face it, new babies are a big expense – there’s a lot to consider for their first few weeks, including baby clothes, car seats, high chairs, and additional childcare costs.
Knowing how to save money on baby items can help you to manage your finances if you’re on a budget, or if you’re having a baby with no money.
In this post, I’m sharing some of the best ways to save money for baby, including where to look for freebies, second hand items, and Government assistance.
Top Tips to Save Money on Baby Items
Start shopping a few months in advance
You can save money on baby gear by shopping a couple of months in advance of your baby’s arrival.
You’ll be more likely to take your time researching for the best items. Plus, you’ll have a few months extra to browse for clothes, baby products, and other items so you don’t need to pay full price.
Make a shopping list so you know exactly what to buy.
Don’t purchase too many newborn baby clothes
It’s tempting to want to purchase clothes for your newborn, especially if it’s your first child.
However, the reality is that your child grows fast so they’re unlikely to be in the newborn size for very long. It’s more practical to buy clothes in a range of sizes for their first year.
This means you’ll have clothes to fit them as they grow bigger, and won’t have unused items because you’ve bought too much.
Buy practical baby clothes over fashionable baby items
Fashion-led baby clothes may be cute but they lack practicality. So, if you want to save money on baby items, it’s time to think about how convenient your baby’s clothes will be.
Instead, look for baby gear with poppers that are easy to get in and out of – this makes changing nappies much easier. Plus, it’ll be easier to change your baby when they get food down them etc.
Also, look for clothes that are easy to wash and pop in the tumble dryer – it’ll make life much easier in the long run.
Shop second hand
There’s often an assumption that second-hand means poor quality but that couldn’t be further from the truth.
You can get some fantastic baby clothes second-hand on eBay, Vinted, Depop, and in charity shops. You’ll probably find some in mint or new condition. I’ve purchased a lot of items from Vinted that have been in fantastic condition.
Ask family members
No doubt that family members and friends will want to buy things for your new baby.
If there’s something you’re after – whether that’s a diaper bag, breast pump, or car seats, don’t be afraid to ask family or friends – you could even make a baby registry or host a baby shower!
Have a baby shower
A baby shower is a great way to get baby gifts. Use a baby registry to ensure you get everything that you need for your new baby, rather than stuff you may not use.
Only buy essential items
Many mothers end up buying too many things they don’t need.
Things like baby shoes, buying tons of maternity clothes and big ticket items are a waste of cash.
Make use of the National Childbirth Trust
The National Childbirth Trust host regular sales in their local branches.
That means you can find some excellent second-hand baby gear.
Shop online for deals
Online shopping is a goldmine for finding deals and steals.
New parents can save a lot of money by searching online for coupons or HDUK where online offers are posted.
Buy baby gear in bulk
Buying things like baby wipes, nappies, infant formula etc in bulk to make the most of savings.
Amazon and Costco are good places to look for bulk buys.
Join local Facebook groups
Local groups are ideal for finding things at a heavily discounted price.
Facebook Marketplace is also good for reduced price baby gear.
Trade baby gear with friends
If you have friends with babies or even older kids, they may have some baby items that you can trade or purchase.
Items like high chairs and prams can cost a lot of money so this is a great way to save.
Purchase cloth diapers
Cloth diapers can be washed and reused, saving you money in the long term.
While it’s more washing, it reduces the need to spend money on nappies.
Go the reusable route
Reusable baby things like cotton baby wipes are better for the environment and your wallet. Besides, they can easily be reused if you have more children down the line.
Look for convertible gear
Convertible gear, such as a cot which can be turned into a toddler bed is more practical than a simple moses basket. You’ll save money as you can use it as your baby grows bigger.
A pram that can be turned into a toddler pushchair is another way for new moms to save money.
Search for baby freebies
Did you know that you can find free samples for pregnant women and new babies online?
You can get things like baby wash, weaning samples, nappies, and more for free.
LatestFreeStuff is a good website for claiming the latest freebies.
Ways to Save Money During Pregnancy
Here are some more tips for saving money during pregnancy.
Buy second-hand maternity clothes
You’re only going to get so much wear out of maternity clothes so consider buying them second-hand or even sizing up in regular clothes.
Consignment shops like designer resale sites are handy if you’re looking for branded or on-trend items.
Batch cook
Let’s face it, new parents barely get any time to themselves, even when it comes to cooking.
Making meals in batch is a great way to save some extra cash. It doesn’t matter if you’re breastfeeding or formula feeding, in between caring for your little one and other chores, cooking is probably the last thing on your mind.
But, cooking and freezing meals means you have something to eat when you’re tired and hungry (and you’re not paying money for takeaways either).
Make the most of parental leave
Make sure you know exactly how much parental leave you’re entitled to.
In the UK, you can take unpaid time off to care for your baby.
Get free pregnancy tests
Your local family planning clinic, sexual health clinic and doctor can give you free pregnancy tests.
If you’re under 25, you can also get free tests from Brook centres.
See what you’re entitled to claim
Always see what benefits you can claim if you’re struggling for cash.
You can claim for certain things when you’re pregnant and once your baby is born. The NHS website has a list of maternity and paternity benefits for the UK.
Get free prescriptions
You can make big savings just by getting free prescriptions.
Pregnant women and those who have had a baby within the last 12 months can get a maternity exemption certificate to get their prescriptions for free.
Ways to Save Money After Baby Arrives
A few ways to save more money once your little person arrives include:
Get free childcare
Older kids aged 3 to 4 are entitled to 30 hours of free childcare each week so if you are a parent already, this can be handy for when your baby arrives.
Get free baby trials
Many companies like Boots Parenting Club and Emma’s Diary offer free gifts or samples in cardboard boxes.
Sell your baby gear once finished with
Once your baby starts getting older, consider selling the things you don’t need anymore.
You can sell them on eBay, Vinted, or your local selling page and it’s a good way to earn money.
Make your own baby food
Once your baby starts weaning, make your own baby food instead of relying on pre-packaged versions.
The NHS has some yummy meal ideas for your weaning little one.
Join local parenting clubs
Local baby classes help you connect with other parents and are great fun for baby.
You can find ones in your area by googling ‘baby classes near me’.
Don’t overbuy baby toys or baby products
It can be easy to overbuy toys for your baby, but you’ll often find that they’re not fully interested until they’re around 3 months old. Even then, only smaller toys tend to get played with.
Toys with multiple textures and fabrics are ideal for a young baby to play with.
Start budgeting
It’s never too late or early to start budgeting.
Keeping a family budget can help when it comes to planning a date night or special event where you may be tempted to start splashing money.
Look for ways to make money
The alternative to saving money is making money.
Online surveys, free money offers, and side hustles are all effective ways to make more money during this special time in your life.
How To Save Money on Baby Items: Summary
I hope these tips on how to save money on baby items come in handy for your new arrival.
Remember, shop around, ask friends and family for assistance, and look at purchasing second-hand wherever possible – this will help your budget and the environment!
