“Babies are expensive.” You hear this often and wonder how people are making it with X number of kids on a tight budget. A lot of times you will hear people say “we aren’t ready to have kids yet because of money.” Well, I’m here to tell you that adding to the family doesn’t have to break the bank. I know babies have the potential to be very expensive, but they don’t HAVE to be. Depending on where you stand, there are several ways to help adjust as a bigger family without spending a ton more.
While having a new baby is definitely an added expense, it doesn’t have to be life shattering or create a major financial strain. Tyler and I were just talking the other day about things that have really helped us to navigate bringing a new baby (and one due in June) into our family. While we are definitely still figuring things out, here are some tips that we have found helpful!
MAKE THE MOST OUT OF YOUR REGISTRY
If you are having a baby shower, I recommend registering for essentials you will actually need. Sometimes advertisers will trick new parents into thinking they have to have the newest gadget, luxury baby item or the perfect nursery items. We can get so caught up in having the “best” things (especially on the first child- am I right?) that we downright forget the essentials like diapers, wipes & feeding supplies! Click here to read my baby registry essentials and find out what you will REALLY need.
Be sure to register for items that will grow with the baby. Diapers and clothes in different sizes will be really appreciated down the road. I suggest checking out different registry options and see who gives the best incentives. I have chosen to register through Amazon because they give an extra 10% off baby items after your shower and you get a free welcome package just for creating a registry and adding items to each category! Click the link to Shop Amazon – Create an Amazon Baby Registry
BABY CLOTHES
We all know kids grow out of clothes SO FAST. Sometimes they may only wear the outfit once, and voila- its too small! I especially look for the big sales at my favorite stores like Old Navy and Carters because those adorable outfits you have been eyeing typically go on sale. Hand me downs are a great thing, too! I have come to appreciate friends that are selling their kid’s clothes or that are done having kids and want to pass them off. I’m not a huge thrifter, but I’m sure you could always find some good deals there as well.
BREASTFEEDING
If you are able to breast feed, this is such a natural/convenient and cheapest way to feed your baby- not to mention the numerous health and bonding benefits it provides the mother and the baby. Formula and baby food can really make a dent in the budget. Especially formula, which can get expensive if your baby is sensitive to certain brands. Most insurance companies will give you a discounted or FREE breast pump if you just call them. If you choose to breast feed, get support! It takes practice, patience, persistence to get the correct latch and make your breastfeeding journey successful. Heres a great article that helped me become successful and actually enjoy breastfeeding!
CREATING AND KEEPING A BUDGET
My husband has taught me a lot about setting a budget and sticking to it! We have a budget for nearly everything- grocery, entertainment, clothes, gifts, travel, etc. At first I felt that this was restricting and was not allowing us freedom in our spending. When in reality, having a budget is just telling your money where to go. The fun part is seeing exactly what you are saving/giving each month. It does require self-control and identifying whether it is truly a “need” or just a “want.” If it is something that is just a “want” then budgeting will allow to you see if you have enough to go ahead and get it and help you not to go into debt. It’s also important to start putting money away into emergency fund/savings in order to help during the times something unforeseen happens. Any amount that you can set aside for this is going to be beneficial.
FINDING GOOD DEALS ON NECESSITIES
We have found that Target runs some great deals offering a gift card if you purchase a certain amount of baby goods. This gift card can then be used to buy more diapers or other essentials you are needing at a later time. Amazon Family also has a subscription deal on diapers that is pretty hard to beat. You can sign up for a free trial just to check it out. Click to start the Join Amazon Family 30-Day Free Trial
Remember, babies don’t have to be expensive, you just need to know where to look for the right savings, and stay within your budget. Utilizing apps, deals and planning ahead can go a long way in saving some money while raising your babies! What are some other tips you have found helpful as a new parent? Post a comment below!
