Having a baby is such an exciting time in your life but it can be an extremely expensive time too. I thought I would share some simple tips for buying baby essentials on a budget. We all know how expensive it can be buying all the things you need for a newborn but it doesn’t stop there, babies grow so fast and need new clothes roughly every 3 months so finding little ways to save money on baby essentials really does make all the difference.
Buying Baby Essentials On A Budget
Free Websites
Join sites like Freecycle, Freegle, and Gumtree, you can pick up items like cots, baths, playmats, and baby clothes for free, the condition of the items is usually really good as they are used for such a short space of time, I got a Pink Lining changing bag from Freecycle, it was as good as new once I washed it and would normally retail at £40 upwards.
Buy Secondhand
Facebook selling pages for your local area are great for picking up the essential items at bargain prices, lots are gently used and sometimes not used at all. People usually sell bundles of baby clothes for a fraction of what they would cost you new, I got some fantastic bundles for Jake most included brands such as Next, Zara Baby and Baby Gap.
Discount Retailers
Although I do buy lots of secondhand baby essentials I would always recommend buying a brand-new mattress for cots and Moses baskets. In the past I have used discount retailers like Kiddicare online, they offer a good range of prices to suit all budgets.
Hand Me Downs
Letting people know that you welcome hand-me-downs means they will keep you in mind if they have a clearout. Asking relatives and friends to keep their feelers out for you too is a good idea, they might know someone giving baby items away or even selling them at bargain prices.
Shop Around
If you are buying new baby essentials, always shop around to get the best deal possible. Do your research as many stores offer a price-match service. Keep your eyes peeled for special baby events or visit the baby shows in your local area to find some cut-price bargains too.
If you do make a purchase online, use a cashback website to make your money go even further.
Online Baby Clubs
Join some baby clubs online, many offer free gifts or coupons for useful baby items as well as great ideas and advice. Here are my favourites:
Emma’s Diary
Bulk Buy
Buy Nappies and Wipes in bulk packs, we always buy the economy big box packs, they last us the whole month and cost less in the long run. Many supermarkets offer baby events a few times a year where you can make some great savings by stocking up.
Downshift Brands
Most supermarkets now offer a range of baby toiletries and nappies that rival the big brands, you could try downshifting to see what suits you and your baby.
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