If you have a baby on the way, whether it’s your first baby or your fifth, there are some big expenses that you’re likely going to have to face as you prepare for the birth and the infant years. However, just because there are things you need doesn’t mean you have to spend your life savings as you prepare for your new baby.
To help you see how you can get the items you need without going into debt, here are three ways to save money on purchases for your new baby.
Take Advantage Of Free Samples
In the baby industry, free samples are abundant. The trick is knowing where you get them and then taking the utmost advantage of them.
To do this, Andrea Stanley, a contributor to Parents.com, recommends that you start by speaking with your OB/GYN and pediatrician. These doctors get all kinds of free samples that they can give away to mothers and soon-to-be-parents. All you have to do is ask for them and you could get anything from prenatal vitamins and diapers to formula and lotions. Along with this, you can also get free samples of items by going to baby fairs, signing up for various websites about babies, and doing simple searches online.
Embrace Hand-Me-Downs
Another great way to save money on purchases for your new baby is to embrace a life of hand-me-downs.
If you have a friend or family member who is done having kids, ask them about any hand-me-downs they might have that they’d be willing to send your way. Also, Ami Spencer Youngs, a contributor to The Penny Hoarder, shares that you can also connect with other moms online or in your area and jump on any hand-me-downs they have available. While there are some things you’ll want to get brand new, like a baby breathing monitor, most baby items are fine to be used through multiple babies.
Always Check For Coupons
Before you make any purchase for your new baby, especially for things that you’ll have to buy all the time like diapers and wipes, Trent Hamm, a contributor to The Simple Dollar, advises that you always check for coupons first. Most manufacturers will offer coupons both on their own websites and through various other third party sites. This way, you’ll almost never have to pay full price for any of these consumable baby items. And since you’ll be spending a big portion of your baby budget on these regular purchases, it makes a lot of financial sense to take advantage of this free money.
If you’re going to be having a new baby soon and are worried about how expensive bringing this new child into your home will be, consider using the tips mentioned above to help you find ways to save money in all areas.