How to Buy Baby Supplies Without Breaking the Bank

It doesn’t matter if you have a baby at home or are planning for an addition to your family in the near future, there’s sure to be a lot on your mind. Somewhere near the top of your priority list is finding out how to buy baby supplies without breaking the bank. It’s best to think about this sooner rather than later.

With the cost of raising a child through the age of 17 reaching well into the six figures, it’s natural to have financial concerns from day one. You’re not alone. Almost every parent feels the financial stress and anxiety at some point. 

Fortunately, there are ways to buy baby supplies without breaking the bank. This will put you on the right financial path from the day that your newborn comes home.

1. Know What You Need

This is where it all starts. There are products that you need and products that you want. Knowing the difference allows you to spend your money according to what’s most important.

Some of the things you absolutely need include a crib, mattress, rocking chair, bottles, diapers, formula, and bibs.

Tip: There are items — such as a crib and mattress — that you’ll only buy once. There are also items — such as diapers and formula — that you must make room for in your monthly budget.

2. Review Your Budget

Speaking of your budget, it’s good practice to review it from top to bottom before you give birth. This gives you a clear idea of the following

• Your current income.
• An estimate of how much money you spend each month.
• Your disposable income.

Knowing these numbers inside and out will help you review your budget and determine how much you can afford to spend on baby supplies.

Tip: You may need to adjust your budget to ensure that you can provide for your child. For example, if you’re currently overspending on entertainment and dining out, cutting back and moving the savings to baby expenses could make good financial sense.

3. Shop for Deals Online

There’s nothing wrong with buying baby supplies at local retail stores. In fact, if you’re in a time crunch, it’s a necessity. But when possible, you should first shop for deals online.

Not only are online prices often cheaper than in-store prices, but it’s more efficient to comparison shop. In the end, you’re in a better position to save both time and money. And that’s important as a new parent.

Tip: Make a list of your favorite online stores, sign up for their email lists, and follow them on social media. This increases the odds of regularly uncovering new deals.

4. Use Coupon Codes

Buying baby supplies online has the potential to save you money, but why stop there? Why not take your savings to the next level? Using coupon codes allows you to do just that.

For instance, we have Baby & Toddler Town coupons and promo codes for deals such as $5 off and up to $170 off.

You won’t find a coupon code for every online store, but that shouldn’t stop you from trying. Any discount is better than none at all, so take a few minutes to see if there’s a code that can save you money.

Tip: Some brands release coupons and promo codes more than others. These are the ones that you want to keep your eyes on.

5. Consider Buying Used

There are some baby supplies that you need to purchase new. For example, you never want to buy a used car seat or crib, as it may not be current with new safety standards.

Conversely, there are other items you should consider buying used. These include but are not limited to:

• Clothes
• Shoes
• Baby monitor
• High chair
• Baby bathtub

There’s nothing more important than your baby’s safety, so if you have any concerns about an item it’s best to hold off until you conduct more research.

Tip: Carefully inspect any secondhand item that you’re purchasing. Maybe you’re buying a baby monitor. On the surface, everything looks good, but that doesn’t mean it’s in good condition. Does it take a charge? Is the screen free from cracks? Do all of its features work?

As you budget for your baby’s first year, keep these five money-saving steps in mind. By implementing all of them, you’ll find that you’re saving money and feeling less stressed financially. This allows you to spend more time on the things you love — such as your new bundle of joy!