I have so many friends that are pregnant or just recently had babies. I began wondering how much it might put a strain financially on some new moms and dads. Having a little one is not cheap. Diapers, bottles, clothes, food, furniture, childcare and of course hospital bills all begin to add up quickly. First, how about an idea on how much it costs to raise a child. At Baby Center there is an actual raising-a-child calculator. That’s right. You can get an estimate on how much you might spend on your child through the age of 18. You can punch in a year for when a child would be or was born, basic information on where you live, your annual household income, whether it’s a single or two-parent home and if the child will go to college. Based on my information, it was more than $250,000 to raise a child. So how can moms and dads save money? Here are some tips:
Clothing: Consider checking out garage sales and/or resale clothing stores. Babies grow out of clothes so quickly and these options can keep some money in your pocket. Also, many stores slash prices at the end of the season. Right now, you might be able to find some deals on summer clothing. Maybe ask your friends who have older children for some hand-me-downs. Let’s not forget maternity clothes for moms. I have some friends that said they will loan me their clothes when I have a baby. Sounds good to me!
Furniture: My brother-in-law and his wife purchased a crib that eventually turns into a grown up bed for when their son gets older. There are also pieces that come in combos, such as a changing table that also doubles as a dresser. When you decide what you need, think resale again. You can always keep an eye out for pre-owned furniture. Just make sure you do a good cleaning of the items.
Food: Are you handy in the kitchen? Making your own baby food can save you loads of money. Here’s an idea from Babies Online. Use a blender for the food and put the puree in an ice cube tray and freeze it. Label a freezer bag and drop them in. Then microwave the cubes when the baby is hungry.
FREE STUFF! Log onto these websites to learn more.
All Free Samples has more information about companies and deals, such as Johnson’s Baby Relief Kit and free Huggies. It also hasn’t forgotten about moms and dads. You can find free books, meals and other things.
Planning Family allows you to register for free and receive stage-based coupons, newsletters and free samples.
Coupon Surfer at this site you can browse by brands to see if there are any coupons and look at their most popular. I chose Enfamil for formula and a coupon for a free breastfeeding support kit popped up.
Many times you can log onto the site of some of your favorite brands of baby food, formula, etc. and find coupons or free offers on their websites as well. So while you’re waiting for that special day to come, do some research and save some money. You and your baby will benefit from it.