|
According
to a recent MSN study, the average family will spend around $10,000
before their child reaches the age of two. How did such tiny creatures
become so expensive? The good news is there are hundreds, even thousands
of ways to save money without depriving you or your baby of anything.
Here are a few that deliver the biggest bang for your buck:
Breastfeeding
Not only is breastfeeding the healthiest option for your baby, it’s the
most economical as well. Breastfeeding exclusively in the first six
months of baby’s life will give his immune system a head start, and
leave more cash in your pocket. However if breastfeeding isn’t practical
for you, you can still save money. By law, generic formula has to meet
the same FDA standards as brand name formula, and costs about 30% less.
You can also sign up for manufacturers’ mailing lists to receive free
formula, and ask your pediatrician for samples at your well-baby
checkups.
Estimated savings: $700/year |
1000 Best Baby Bargains
|
Switch to Generic Diapers
Generic disposables are better than ever these days, and are comparable
to their brand-name counterparts. Most come with cloth-like covers and
Velcro-like tabs that make refastening diapers a breeze. Favorite brands
include those found at Target and White Cloud from Wal-Mart, which cost
about 30% less than premium brands. Save even more by making your own
baby wipes at home (the instructions are found in the book, 1000 Best
Baby Bargains).
Estimated savings: $200-300/year
Buy the Majority of your Child’s Wardrobe at Garage Sales
Because babies grow so quickly, they barely have time to wear out their
cute little outfits. There are some great deals to be found on
secondhand items, especially at garage sales. Often times, you can pick
up used clothes in great condition for a dollar or even less. If you’re
hesitant, don’t be. Once the tags are off, all clothes are secondhand
anyway. After all, it’s a lot easier to watch your child spit up on his
$1 sleeper than one you bought for $15.
Estimated savings: $400/year
Purchase Baby Gear at Secondhand or Consignment Stores
Because they have tough standards for the quality of items they sell,
you can often find gently used gear in great condition at secondhand or
consignment stores. This includes strollers, bouncers, monitors, high
chairs, etc. For safety’s sake, ask the store if they check items they
sell for recalls. One note of caution: you should never buy a used car
seat unless you know its exact history. Hairline fractures to the frame
could compromise baby‘s safety and are sometimes impossible to see.
Estimated savings: $250-500
Opt for the Shabby Chic Nursery
Transforming your baby’s room into an infant wonderland doesn’t have to
be expensive. Scout out the best deals on used furniture at garage
sales, thrift stores, antique stores, or even your parents’ basement.
Even parents-to-be without an ounce of artistic talent can paint a mural
on baby’s wall with the help of an overhead projector. Mismatched
dressers, book shelves, and rockers can be given a coat of paint so
they’ll coordinate with each other and match the room.
Estimated Savings: $500+
|
|
