Money Saving Tips for Expecting and New Parents
Regardless of whether you’re financially stable, saving money when you’re expecting a baby is a hot topic for parents-to-be. You’re about to begin an exciting journey, and with it can come A LOT of expenses. Here are six money-saving tips to consider as you prepare for your bundle of joy.
NURSE YOUR BABY IF YOU CAN
Something to consider before you take maternity leave is how you want to feed your baby the first year. There are many factors that go into making this personal decision, and really, there’s no wrong answer. A little food for thought, however; formula can cost a whopping $1,500 a year. That’s a lot of cash that could go towards other baby necessities, like diapers, wipes, pacifiers, car seats, changing pads…you get the gist.
GO “BRAND BLIND”
Shopping for baby gear for family activities? Or maybe you need a swing to help your baby catch some Zzzs? Your little one doesn’t know the difference between Prada and a private label. Skip those top-of-the-line price tags. Instead, focus on the quality of the gear itself. Is it well made? What are the reviews? Any recalls? It’s not those fancy labels that rock your baby to sleep after all.
OPT FOR CONVERTIBLE FURNITURE
There’s a lot of fantastic furniture on the market that can grow right along with your baby. Cribs that transform into toddler beds, cradles that become changing tables, and bassinets that convert into playpens save both space and money.
DON’T OVERBUY
It’s an exciting time for sure. One that goes by fast. Before you know it, those newborn onesies and blanket sleepers won’t fit any more. In fact, some babies are born too big to squeeze into “newborn” clothes at all.
Here’s some advice for new parents: shop lean. There’s no need to fill a drawer with clothing for a 3-month-old. You’ll blaze past three months in the blink of an eye. Instead, buy a few items in each size. You’ll be prepared for the growth spurts without breaking the bank.
STOCK UP ON BASICS
One thing you should stock up on? Diapers. Lots and lots of diapers, and wipes, too. And if you’re feeding with it, cans of formula. If you find a sale, fill your cart. Buy jumbo sized packages or canisters. Belong to a warehouse club? Buy in bulk. You’ll be going through these things a whole lot more than you think.
BUY USED
Rocker swings for infants. Baby carriers for all those outdoor activities for kids. These are the kind of things babies outgrow before they show any wear and tear. Save money by shopping at garage sales and consignment stores or on websites like Craigslist. Items like car seats and breast pumps should never be purchased secondhand, however.
ONLINE LOANS
Everyone’s financial needs are different. If you find yourself in need of extra money as you prepare for your new baby, LendNation can help. From a simple cash advance to flexible online loans, LendNation has a money solution designed to fit your needs. The process is fast, easy, and hassle-free. Plus, with in-store and online options, you can get cash today. Find a location or apply now.
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