If there is one thing we can guarantee about babies, it’s that they are
expensive. When it comes to your infant, there are certain things you just
cannot skimp on. Although we always want the best of everything for baby, we
cannot always afford that. We know that the summer months can get expensive, so
knowing where you can save money can be a life-saver. SleepingBaby.com
founders Stephanie and Brett Parker know all about saving money with their
family of four.
READ MORE: Be honest about money issues
“When we had our first baby, it was difficult to save
money. Through talking to friends who already had kids, we were able to figure
out different ways to save money and make sure our baby had everything she needed.
By the time our second one came around, we were pro’s at saving money,” said
Stephanie Parker, creator of the Zipadee-Zip.
Here are five money saving tips for parents with infants:
1) Learn to buy only what you need. If you have a strict budget you have to stick to, only
buy what you really need. A baby needs diapers, a car seat, clothing, blankets
and a few other obvious things. You don’t need to buy every new baby gadget on
the market. Stick to buying the essentials and save your money for what is
needed, not wanted.
2) Think first, buy later. The best plans are always the ones that are made in
advance. One of the best ways to save money on baby’s things is to wait to go
shopping until after baby is born. Although you should make a list of things
you think he or she will need, you aren’t going to know exactly what will be
needed until baby is born. You can save money by waiting and not buying things
that won’t be needed.
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3) Know what you are buying. It’s best to research all of the things you need before
you buy them. You can get great deals on things if you search around. Make a
list of what you need and go online searching for the best products and deals
out there. When researching, you should also see what people are saying about
the product and see if there have been any recalls recently.
4) Ask your friends. A great way to save money is to buy your baby’s things
either used, or get hand-me-downs from friends. If you feel uncomfortable
buying something used for your baby, ask a friend whose children have grown if
she has any baby things still around. Friends and family are great resources
when looking to save money.
5) Find the sales. Now that you are a parent you are going to have to learn to shop sales. parents who don't buy on sale or use coupons can spend up to 25 to 30 percent more than parents who do. If you find a coupon, use it!