After Baby Savings

If you are a mother and have a new baby to care for, you are most likely worried about how you will manage financially particularly if you are taking unpaid maternity leave. Caring for a newborn can become quite costly, but it doesn' have to send you hurdling into debt if you learn to be thrifty and resist the temptation to buy every precious baby item you see, although some things you just can' resist! Here are some tips to keep you from filing bankruptcy before your baby reaches toddlerhood:

Make Baby Food

As long as you have a blender and something healthy to put into it, you can have pureed food for your baby. Those cute miniature jars of baby food can add up quickly, so why not use food you already have in your kitchen such as bananas, pears, apples, carrots, peas and even chicken soup! Besides being cheaper, making your own baby food can be much healthier, too.

Baby Clothes

Many of the same friends and family that loaned you maternity clothes probably will have baby clothes to pass on to your little one. Some of the clothing may even be brand new items their baby never wore or barely wore. Yard sales and consignment shops are great places to purchase inexpensive baby clothing (as well as toys). Remember, your little bundle won't be the same size long! Recycled clothing is a wonderful way to save money on clothes your baby will quickly outgrow. Also, buy a size or two larger than what your baby currently wears, if you find bargains on clothing going out of season. Your baby can wear them next year. Steer clear of newborn-sized clothing, as most babies can barely wear them when they leave the hospital let alone a few weeks later. While shopping for clothes, keep in mind that newborn shoes are nothing more than a waste of money. Until your baby is learning to walk, they are noting more than decoration. Invest in some socks instead.

Breastfeed

By breastfeeding your baby, you can literally save well over a thousand dollars. Formula is very expensive, unless you can qualify for the WIC program. Besides being free (except maybe a breast pump and a few accessories), breast milk is the best milk for your baby. If you choose to feed your baby formula and you don't qualify for WIC, take advantage of special programs and offers from major formula manufactures.

Diapers

Try using store brand diapers in place of name brand disposable diapers. Most diapers are pretty much the same, although store brands will be cheaper and save you quite a bit of money in the long run. Or, you may want to consider using cloth diapers instead of disposables. This can save you money over time, too.

Baby Furniture

Before you spend money on baby furniture and big-ticket items, check with your friends and family to see if they have any in good condition which you can use or keep. Just as you can find like-new and inexpensive baby clothing at consignment shops, you can also come across furniture for your baby's nursery. Keep in mind, you will want to invest in a new crib (if you don't receive one as a gift) because used cribs may not be safe. Keep your eyes peeled while reading the classified ads in your local newspaper. You can find a variety of pre-owned baby furniture pieces this way as well.

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