* When your baby is born in the hospital they will send you home with a bag of baby products. i.e. lotion, diaper ointment, baby wash, diapers, alcohol swabs, nasal aspirator, thermometer, disposable nipples for the bottles and fragrance free baby wipes. Yep! I got all this when Luca was discharged! It's saved me around $50!
* When the time is right and you feel like sharing your expecting baby news with friends and family hopefully you will receive lots of goodies like I did! The is especially helpful when you're a single parent and these items arrive already assembled! I was super fortunate that many of my girlfriends have baby boys. They gave me tons of clothes, bouncers, walkers, play-mats, pack and play, shoes and toys. The best part…It's all FREE!
* The clearance racks at department stores and Target should be the first place you check for clothes, shoes and accessories. Be careful with buying clothing too far in advance. Babies can have sudden growth spurts. For example, my son is 4 1/2 months old and is growing out of 6 months clothing. You should also check out you local consignment stores.
* Look for multi-functional furniture and accessories. Furniture and strollers that change with your growing baby. Changing table/dressing combo/crib, high chairs that can be converted into a booster seat and then a regular chair and cribs that can be transformed into a toddler bed.
* Do not buy…or return crib pillows. SIDS…Sudden Infant Death Syndrome hazard.
* Diapers- Go Big or Go Home! I am serious about this. Try to buy them at Costco or Sam's Club. You can save around $176 a year!
* Strollers should be tested before bought. When I baby sat for my friend and used hers I could hardly steer it and it was very heavy and difficult to open and close. The is crucial if you will be doing things on your own! And expensive doesn't always mean better.
* Stock your car. Keep a bag or small container of a few diapers, ointment, wipes, an extra outfit and a pacifier. If you happen to forget something while you are out…trust me you will, there is a back up waiting for you and you will not need to spend the extra money to buy something.
* Your pediatrician's office has samples and coupons for you…you just need to ask.
*Sign up for you favorite diaper brand, formula, skincare newsletters. They will send you coupon offers and there is always some type of contest…a.k.a. more free stuff!
*Like their social media page. You will receive an offer code. It's usually a few dollars off of their items.
* Make your own baby food. It's healthier and safer for you little one. All it takes is time management. The Internet is packed with baby food recipes.
* Get family to baby sit when you are working or busy. You don't need to pay them.
* Make a monthly budget and stick to it. I did this right before Luca was born because my funds were/are tight.
Happy Baby Gear Shopping!
Peace, Love and CARE,
Carmela
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