Twelve Ways to Save Money on Your Baby Bills

The cost of having children can dramatically impact new parents.  Folks can easily spend far too much in the excitement of it all.

Here are some money-saving tips to help the impact on the purse:

1. Buy diapers in bulk, either at big box stores or online.  Consider cloth diapers and go Green!  Save gas and maybe try shopping at Amazon.com for diapers.  They do not charge for shipping.
2. Breastfeed your baby; it saves a ton of cash and time, and also provides great health benefits.  Consider speaking with a lactation consultant before giving up if you are struggling.
3. Try making your own baby food.  You can store the vegetables in small tubs at room temperature and easily whip up a meal, saving you a great deal of money.  Many moms blend their food and freeze it in ice cube trays, then take out a couple cubes during mealtime and zap them in the microwave.
4. Remember that your investment in cute outfits will last sometimes only two or three wears.  Perhaps limit the adorable temptations to buy a few outfits for nice outings, and share the standard onesies with your friends as staple attire.
5. Consider higher-quality gear as a money saver in the long run, as you might want it to last through more than one child.  This includes strollers, car seats, cribs, etc. Be sure to stay on alert for recall items by checking with the US Consumer Product Safety Commission.
6. Purchase furniture items like cribs and dressers that evolve as the baby grows (cribs become day beds, or dressers have removable changers).
7. Go the frugal route and buy resale or deal-a-day clothing.  Online sites such as SwapMamas.com and babysteals.com are good starts!
8. Try comparison shopping on baby food and/or formula.  Believe it or not, Toys “R” Us and Babies “R” Us often have prices lower than your local grocery stores.  Some big box stores are starting to carry canned baby food in bulk.  Be extra careful to find your best deals on formula (and use coupons), as the prices can vary drastically, and isn’t always priced identically in the same chain store that’s in a different location.
9. Consider purchasing toys and books at garage sales. Make sure they are close to new, function properly, and work correctly.  Also, check to see that they haven’t been recalled. Try your local Craig’s List for your nearest sale.
10. Refrain from purchasing the unnecessary “eye candy-type” accessories that appear really adorable, but don’t provide a great function that your other purchases serve.
11. Check Consumer Reports before purchasing a big ticket item, as this tool will help ensure that you purchase a quality item.
12. Gather with you local friends for swap days and make an event of it! Put your heads together for other resources such as your favorite resale shops, family swap meets, library book sales, etc.

Stacey is the founder of San Diego Bargain Mama, a website devoted to sharing local value, both offline and online. She is a blessed wife and mom of two kids who remind her daily how precious life is.