Without a doubt, we want our baby to have the best of everything. So we feel a special kind of guilt when we try to save money on baby stuff. But how can we save more?
You don’t have to feel bad, mama. Bringing up a baby means growing expenses too, but you can still find ways to minimize costs so you don’t use up a huge chunk of your family savings on items for your little bean alone. Individual expenses may look like they don’t burn a hole in your pocket, but remember that these small price tags add up and can become a huge sum.
Here are some handy tips on how you can save more when raising a newborn:
Breastfeed if you can
There’s a reason why more and more mamas are choosing to breastfeed their babies. Aside from its many health and wellbeing benefits, it’s also a more economical choice. The liquid gold provided by you mama is completely free, so it’s a huge saving in your family budget.
Score great deals online
Don’t we all know at least one “wais” mama? Be inspired by her desire to get the best of the best deals online without breaking the bank. Promo and discount vouchers, anniversary sales, free shipping—name it, and she probably avails of any or all of these.
With most moms shopping online now, e-commerce sites and online shops are doubling down on their marketing, offering great deals. Take advantage of them and add your baby’s necessities to the cart.
Go for baby items that pull double duty
It’s important to be smart about the items you purchase. Choose high-quality items that have multiple uses as well as those that can grow with your baby. They might look expensive at the onset, but with their double-duty features as well as the length of time you can use them, you are actually saving a few bucks.
A bassinet that can become a stroller in an instant is a must-buy. A high chair for your baby that can also serve as a chair when he or she grows is another one to add to your cart. So is a diaper bag that could easily pass off as a stylish bag for mama.
Be smart about buying diapers
Diapers can take a large portion of your budget, so be smart and practical about this purchase. It’s easier and wiser to buy in bulk, too!
Don’t stock up on too many baby clothes
We get it: You are excited to dress up your baby. And this excitement can make you buy tons of outfits for your little one. You need to remember though that newborns can have sudden growth spurts, and they can outgrow clothes within just a few months. Hold off on purchasing a lot of clothes in one size and consider getting the next size. There’s also nothing wrong with using hand-me-downs from relatives and friends.
Choose toys mindfully
Not all toys are created equal, so it’s important to choose them wisely. If you plan to buy new ones, consider getting sensory toys that help develop your baby’s motor skills, cognitive processes, and overall development. Also, avoid buying toys of the same kinds and look for cheaper (but safe) alternatives.
Set up a gift registry
Everyone in your circle is just as excited as you in welcoming the newest addition to your family. Most of them will begin to ask you about things you need and want for yourself and the baby, as they want to shower you with gifts that you’ll actually appreciate and use. A gift registry will save them from the guesswork and help you save big on a number of baby essentials.
Learn more about Baby Care here.
This story originally appeared on Edamama and is re-used with permission:
https://www.edamama.ph/discover/style/smart-ways-to-save-on-baby-expenses
