Top Tips for Budget-Conscious Families To-Be

Based in Grandville MI, Jennifer McGregor is a pre-med student who enjoys writing about health and medical topics and providing health and medical resources. She co-created PublicHealthLibrary as a way to push reputable information on health topics to the forefront, making them easier and quicker to find

Bringing a baby into the world is such a blessing, and the last thing you want to have on your mind is financial stress. A handful of clever spending strategies can help you prepare properly without straining your bank account. Read on for some terrific, budget-conscious ideas from Balanced Birth Support that ensure you’re ready when your little one arrives. 

Whenever you’re stretching your dollars, used can be an ideal way to go. For everything from clothing for you and your baby, to general baby toys and gear, you can snag some bargains with gently used, previously enjoyed pieces. Start from the comfort of your couch and browse available goods on eBay, which has everything under the sun. You can often choose to bid, buy it now, or make an offer to the seller. Facebook Marketplace or your local buy nothing group are great ways to score a deal on used baby and kids stuff.  You can also explore yard sales and thrift shops if you’re unable to find what you’re looking for through online shopping.  

One note of caution, some baby items are safe to buy used and some aren’t. Basically, anything you can clean properly is okay, such as a baby bathtub, high chair, and clothes, but aim for new purchases on things like the car seat, crib, and breast pump.

A seat is a must-have, and they can be pricey. The many options available can become confusing as well. As Verywell Family points out, there are four general types of car seats: infant, convertible, three-in-one, and booster, and there are uses and benefits for each option.  

Infant versions are just as they sound: once your baby outgrows it, it’s usefulness ends. A convertible car seat, on the other hand, can be enjoyed until your baby no longer needs a car seat. Three-in-one seats are similar, and on top of offering long-term usefulness, they can accommodate a booster seat. A stand-alone booster seat uses the seat belt to restrain the child.  

For a one-time purchase, convertible or three-in-one car seats make the most sense for many moms. When it comes time to purchase one, consider going straight to the maker’s website for whichever option you choose. For example, if you decide on a car seat from Evenflo, you can shop their full selection online, then have the seat shipped directly to your home. When you spend $150 or more, they offer free shipping so you save time and money.  

You’ll also want a dependable and convenient umbrella stroller for whenever you arrive at your destination. While you might be able to get by with a portable car seat or baby sling, there are times that a stroller is simply a must-have.

Some traditional furnishings, such as cribs and changing tables, are quickly outgrown. However, versatility is the name of the game when it comes to pinching pennies on nursery furnishings. There are dressers with changing table tops, and cribs that convert to big kid beds, so the furnishings can grow with your baby. Another option is to DIY a dresser conversion for a changing table, but when it comes to the crib, buy new for safety reasons. For attractive furnishings at great prices, shop with bigger retailers like Target; they have a broad selection to suit your tastes so you can set up the nursery you’re dreaming about. 

If you plan to nurse, a breast pump is probably on your wishlist, and it’s another item you should purchase. There is a huge variety of styles and options, from manual pumps to high-tech versions. When it comes to making a choice on which breast pump might be right for you, Medela suggests weighing your circumstances carefully. If you’re heading back to work soon, a double-electric version might be your best option. Stay-at-home moms who just need a small reserve might meet their needs with a manual model.  

Once you make a selection, consider shopping directly with manufacturers such as Freemie. Freemie offers a quiet, hands-free pump you can use discreetly under your clothing, which makes it ideal for moms on the go.

Buying new things for your baby can be fun and stress-free with a couple of smart strategies. Shop previously-enjoyed when you can, and look for great deals on items you need new. With careful spending, you can be well-prepared when your baby arrives. 

Look to Balanced Birth Support for more valuable information like this, as well as to connect with a doula, for classes, breastfeeding support, and much more!