10 Ways to Save with a New Baby

A new baby means money, money and money. There’s no getting away from the nappies, bottles, clothes, wet wipes, pacifiers and paediatrician costs that will eat up your salary as soon as it lands in your bank account. However, following some simple tips and tricks can allow you save money while you tend to your little one’s every need.

1: Maternity clothes

Don’t waste lots of money on maternity clothes when instead you can opt for clothing that can work as both maternity wear and regular clothing. For example, a maternity maxi dress is simple and stylish and can still be worn after the baby bump is gone with some simple adjustments.

2: Baby clothes

It can be tempting, but don’t bother buying baby clothes very far in advance. Newborns can often have sudden growth spurts, so that cute winter coat you bought your baby in May because it was on sale is unlikely to fit by the time the weather gets colder.

3: Buy in bulk

When it comes to the essentials, like nappies and wet wipes – buy in bulk. It may seem excessive as you lug home huge piles of the necessities, but it will save you money in the long run if you can get a good deal now.

4: Travel sense

It will save you plenty of cash if you keep an extra nappy bag in the car. On more than one occasion you will forget your nappy bag – you’re a busy mum after all – and having an extra item of everything you need, such as nappies, ointment, wet wipes and an extra baby outfit, will prevent you having to spend a small fortune when you need these items on your day out.

5: Cut your formula costs

It is widely accepted that breastfeeding is the best thing for your baby, as it gives them all the vitamins and nutrients they need. However, at some point you need to make the choice to stop breastfeeding and switch to formula, and that’s where all those free formula samples and vouchers will come in handy. Hold on to all special offers, as you never know when you might need them.

6: Join the club

Join the rewards club at your local supermarket and you’ll soon be saving the pennies with vouchers off for all your regular items, such as bottles, formula, nappies, wet wipes and everything else you need for your baby.

7: Be health savvy

Don't bother buying an ear thermometer for your baby. It may seem like a good idea, but doctors generally recommend a digital oral or rectal thermometer as being more accurate, and they cost far less than an ear thermometer.

8: Don’t fluff it up

We all know what it’s like – there are few things cuter than baby accessories. However, you’re only wasting your money buying cute fluffy pillows for your child’s crib, as they are a health hazard for your child and can contribute to cases of cot death.

9: Return what you don’t want

You’ll get loads of gifts from well-meaning friends and relatives, but if you don’t want it then return it immediately. This way you will get back the value of the gift or at the very least you should be able to exchange it for something you do want, saving you money in the long run.

10: Go for a test drive!

Before you buy a pram, wheel it about the shop for a bit. You’d be surprised how difficult many of them can be to steer, and it’ll drive you crazy if you end up stuck with a tricky one.