How to save on baby expenses

By Kira Vermond on August 10, 2016
Estimated reading time: 1 minute

Quick tips on how to maximize your baby savings

This article is 6 years old. Some details may be outdated.

[bc_video video_id=”6023924992001″ account_id=”6015698167001″ player_id=”lYro6suIR”] Highchairs, sleepers, diaper bags, hooded towels… Oh boy (or girl!), the list of baby expenses never seems to end. Fortunately, there are lots of ways to spend less while still giving your new addition the very best.

Just ask for it

Forget those teeny tiny shirts adorned with sayings like, “Spit happens.” If you’re having a baby shower, don’t be afraid to ask for items you’ll really need. Two month’s worth of a diaper service? Priceless.

Buy used

Seriously, babies don’t care, and snatching up gently-used items saves serious money. We found a 2013 UPPAbaby Vista stroller for $375 on Kijiji. Buy it new and expect to pay $1,199 or more.

Budgeting for baby's first year

Ignore upsells

Can’t find it used? Resist any high-pressure sales tactics steering you away from modestly-priced items. Sure, that $1,000 Stokke crib looks super slick, but wouldn’t a $90 IKEA crib do just as well? (Trust us, you still love your baby just as much as someone splashing out on high-end gear.)

Unearth savings

When creating your baby budget, don’t forget you’re now spending less on stuff you used to shell out major shekels for. Expect reduced transit expenses and office clothing and lunch costs. Any fancy vacations and nights on the town are probably over, too—at least for now.