15 Simple Tips to Save Money on Baby Supplies

If you have a baby or are having one in the near future, it can definitely be a strain on an already-tight budget. Infants and babies come with all sorts of new expenses, and of course, you don't want to skimp or compromise on quality when it comes to important items for your new child.

You should be able to improve the situation by finding general ways to reduce your monthly spending and more specific ways, like saving money on groceries. But there are also tips to save money on baby supplies that will make things more manageable.

How to Spend Less on Baby Supplies:

1. Breastfeed if you can. It's not only healthy-it's much cheaper than buying formula.
   
   
2. Ask a family member or good friend to throw you a baby shower, which comes with the perk of getting gifts for your son or daughter. Sign up for a gift registry.
   
   
3. Return gifts you don't need and use the store credit to get supplies you do need.
   
   
4. Ask family, friends, and co-workers if they have any baby clothing, toys, strollers, or other supplies they don't need anymore.
   
   
5. Check with your medical insurance carrier about how to get a free breast pump, which is guaranteed to new mothers under the Affordable Care Act.
   
   
6. See what you can find in local Facebook groups and on websites like your local Craigslist and Freecycle.
   
   
7. Skip the baby shoes; they're so unnecessary and will be quickly outgrown. Just get a pair of soft booties to keep the feet warm.
   
   
8. Keep a close eye on coupons and sales at big box stores, supermarkets, and other retailers.
   
   
9. Sign up for emails and coupons from manufacturers of baby food, diapers, and other products.
   
   
10. Visit local consignment shops, used clothing stores, thrift stores, and yard sales. Pre-owned baby clothes tend to be in good shape because they don't get much use before the child outgrows them.
    
    
11. Buy reusable cloth diapers instead of disposable ones. You could cut up some old cotton t-shirts and make reusable baby wipes, too.
    
    
12. Make your own baby food.
    
    
13. Ask your pediatrician for samples; you may very well get formula and even medication like an infant pain reliever/fever reducer or eczema cream.
    
    
14. Find furniture that does double duty. For example, there are dresser-changing table combos, high chairs that can later be used as booster seats, and cribs that convert to toddler beds.
    
    
15. Think ahead! Purchase baby clothes and other supplies in unisex colors and styles so you can hand them down to your next baby, even if he or she is a different sex from your previous child.