8 Surprising Ways to Save on Baby Gear

Feeling overwhelmed with the costs of having a baby? Looking for ways to save on the essentials? Pinching pennies when it comes to baby gear?

The list of essential baby supplies is seemingly endless, especially if you’re a first time parent. So many things you probably never considered… or budgeted for! Luckily there are ways to save money in your search for baby gear, and a few might surprise you. Check out our list below for a few tips to save as you shop.

Online shopping: online shopping is so ridiculously convenient, it can really suck you in if you’re not careful. For baby gear online, focus on bulk items like diapers and formula rather than toys and clothes. Avoid retailers that charge shipping or other fees. The Flipp app is a great tool! It can look across online stores and compare same products to give you the best price. Whether your using an app or doing research by hand in your local paper ads or instore, there are always ways to save money.

Diapers: before you buy, compare prices on a few sites and also check the manufacturer’s site for coupons. As long as they work fine for baby, you don’t need to be loyal to one brand.

Samples: ask your pediatrician for samples of everything from formula to eczema cream. You’ll be going often in the early days, so the savings can really add up.

Convertible gear: rather than a stroller that’s only good for a few months, consider convertible gear that will potentially last years.  This includes car seats, high chairs, beds, and certain toys. It is now recommended to buy New only, when it comes to car seats and boosters.

Clothes: babies don’t wear the same clothes for long which means you’ll be changing the wardrobe often. It also means there’s tons of great second-hand stuff out there! Get clothes through mom-to-mom sales, resale shops, and hand-me-downs. Remember not to skimp on safety. Buy new where necessary.

Share: you don’t need a baby version of everything. Consider purchases on products like towels, washcloths, soaps, cups, stools, straws, etc. that will work for both of you.

Reusable product: disposable items like diapers, wipes, and food containers are very convenient and may not cost much up front. But buying them over, and over, and over again adds up. Look into reusable products that will cost more initially but save money long-term.

Borrowing: have friends or close relatives with kids a few years older than yours? Tap into that resource! If they’re willing to loan or even give you big items like cribs, gliders, or bassinets, you’ll be able to spend that money elsewhere.

You will be amazed how much money you can save putting these tips to work as you prepare for the arrival of baby. Whether you have a baby boy or have a baby girl, you can be assured of falling in love and having fun while shopping for gender specific or neutral clothes, toys and necessities!