raise a baby on a budget

How to Raise a Baby on a Budget

Most first time moms wonder if it is possible to raise a baby on a budget. Research shows that raising a baby can cause thousands of dollars. As soon as a new parent discovers that they are expecting, panic replaces the initial excitement. They start to wonder how they will be able to afford a baby and fulfill all of their needs without going bankrupt. With all the expenses of buying baby clothes, diapers, formula, gadgets, gynecologist and pediatrician fees, raising a baby can become quite expensive. The good news is that you can stop worrying because it is very much possible to raise a baby and not go completely bankrupt. Parents, who learn to control and reduce their expenditure, can afford more time at home with their children as they don’t have to run here and there to make the ends meet.

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Below are tips to help raise a baby on a budget and possibly save some money for their college tuition when they are older.

1. Use Cloth Diapers During Day and Disposables During Night

Instead of using high-end baby diapers consider using generic brands. It can cut your diapering costs half. You can also use cloth diapers during the day and use disposables only at night. This will enable you to spend even less money and it also has certain advantages. It prevents the baby from getting rashes (and thus saving you from buying expensive diaper rash creams) and is also beneficial for the environment as the disposable diapers take a lot of years to decompose.

2. Make a List

Make a list of things you think your baby might need instead of watching videos of baby must-haves on YouTube. You may want to give your baby everything but the first step towards saving is making the right choices and stop overspending (which new parents tend to do a lot). Wait and see what the baby needs and then consider buying big items. For example; is it really necessary to buy a changing table or buying just a changing pad and fitting it on the dresser can suffice? Do really need to buy that $200 bouncer with five stars and rave reviews or a $30 bouncer will do the deed just fine?

3. Nannies

If you are not a stay at home mom and have to leave your child at home then you can consider hiring a nanny instead of sending your child to daycare which is more expensive. Also, if you have to spend some time away from baby consider babysitting trade-off with other parents. You can ask other parents to look after your baby for some time and then offer to do the same for their kid.

4. Breastfeed if You Can

It is not only healthy for your baby but it also saves a lot of money that will otherwise be spent on expensive formulas and baby bottles. Also, borrow a breast pump instead of purchasing a brand new. An electric pump can be quite costly and it is just the plastic attachments, which go with a pump, which should not be shared. Buying them will cost you less than $45. Also, don’t rush into buying breastfeeding wardrobe, wait for at least the first 2 weeks (as you mostly spend those indoors) and see whether you can continue breastfeeding in the long term before buying nursing covers and nursing bras.

5. Choose Unisex Colors and Styles

When you’re buying newborn clothes don’t go overboard. As babies tend to have sudden growth spurts and thus some of the clothes may become useless. Buy clothes that are unisex so that you can use them for your next baby instead of buying new clothes all over. If you want to save more money, consider getting hand me downs from other moms whose babies no longer need them, through different social media groups or you can also ask your relatives.

6. Look for Baby Gear Which Does Double Duty

When buying baby gear, invest in the ones that are good for long term use and are sturdy enough to use for other children you may have in the future. Buy baby gear that does double duty includes an infant to toddler rocker, a high chair that can be converted into a booster seat, a pack n play (ideal for use from infant to toddler and save money instead of buying a bassinet and crib) or stroller that can be converted into a pram. You can also ask your friends, family or other parents who are willing to lend you their baby gear.

7. Make Your Own Baby Food

Making your own baby food is not only cost-effective but also healthier for your baby. You can make vegetable and fruit purees and freeze them and microwave when your baby is ready to eat it. It’s cheaper and you know exactly what is going in your baby’s food.

8. Make Your Own Baby Wipes

You will require a lot of wipes. Why spend your hard-earned money on something which only takes a few minutes to make? Or if you don’t have time to make your own, you can use a washcloth instead.

9. Keep Baby with You for First Few Weeks

Put your baby’s bed in your room for the first few weeks. It will buy you time to save some money for the nursery. Also, when building a nursery don’t spend too much and look online for companies that give freebies to new parents.

10. Buy Simple Products for Baby Care

While it is true that babies have sensitive skin, you don’t really need to spend a lot of money on high-end baby care products. Buying simple and natural products, like, coconut oil, Aloe Vera gel, unscented lotions, and soaps will get the job done just fine.

11. Call Your Pediatrician Before Setting an Appointment

An experienced doctor may be able to diagnose an illness on phone and prescribe medicines accordingly. This way you can save some money from doctor’s fees when your child gets sick.

It is easy to raise a baby on a budget

Use the tips above to help you raise a baby on a budget. The truth is, raising a baby does not have to be pricey. Knowing where to look for savings, using deals, planning ahead of time, with a little creative thinking and some help from your fellow moms, friends and family, you can save tons of money and use it for your children’s college fund. It is time to raise a baby on a budget.

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