As a first time parent, it is likely that you have created a long and detailed wish list of all the items that you need to purchase to welcome your little one home. On this wish list are the best possible quality items, because after all, you want to give your child what you had growing up or even something that is better. Although your intentions may be sound, you may discover that there are items on your list that you can get at a much cheaper cost. At this lower cost, they will give you just the same, if not more functionality that what you had been hoping to achieve. Here are some of the items that you need to be careful not to overpay for.
- Diapers – There are stories of how children react to cheaper products, and that these are bad for them in some way. The way that diapers are regulated today, you will find that most of them offer excellent protection for your child, to prevent them from getting any rashes or reactions. This is especially true for disposable diapers. Try out some of the cheaper varieties on your child and if there are no reactions, continue to use these until your child is potty trained.
- Clothing – In the first three months of your child’s life, they grow in leaps and bounds, and quickly outgrow any clothing items that you may have bought for them. Do not break the bank trying to buy them the cutest and most expensive baby designer clothing items. Be practical. When they get older, they will be able to wear these longer. So as a baby, make sure that their clothes are of good quality and comfortable, and purchase something cheaper for them to wear.
- Car Seats – As this is an item that will determine the safety of your child, you are likely to want to go all out when making a purchase. However, there is no need to splurge on something that is too fancy, as you will soon find that your child outgrows this as well. Look at what is available, and consider the features that you are interested. Buy something that is mid-priced, as this will offer you as much safety as something that is highly priced.
- Cribs – This is where you start to look for items which are second hand or have been refurbished so that you can save on costs. It is unlikely that a baby crib can be incredibly banged up to the point that it is no longer safe. Find a great second hand option, and then purchase a new mattress and bed linens for your child. You may find that your child stops using a crib and moves into a small baby bed in next to no time.
- Toys – These can set you back quite a bit, and then after you purchase them, you find that your child really isn’t interested in playing with them. Children have a short concentration span, and quickly lose interest in items looking for something else that will grab their attention. Instead of looking for an expensive toy for them to play with, you can become practical and create some toys of your own at home. You would be amazed at the amount of fun that a child would have with a cardboard box, or with some paper and crayons. Get crafty and save yourself hundreds of dollars.
- Medications – You may want to have all your bases covered in case your child gets unwell, but you do not need to stock up by filling your medicine cabinet to the brim with all types of syrups and solutions. Instead, do what you would naturally as a great parent. Breastfeed for as long as possible to build up the immunity of your little one. Ensure that they are clean and well taken care of, and covered to get protection from the elements. Limit the amount of contact that they have with strangers. Medicines have a short shelf life, especially for babies, so if you buy too many, you may find yourself throwing them out. Also, avoid diagnosing your child and giving them the wrong medication all on your own. It is wiser for you to consult with your pediatrician and getting what they need, when it is needed.
Keeping your expenses in check by considering how much it is that you are paying for things, will help you redirect your finances to areas that will prove to be more beneficial for you and your child. Do not feel guilty about making more economical choices. Remember that over time, you will be able to spend the money that you are saving on something that is far more useful, which will have a greater impact on your child in the end.
rochelle haynes says
Thanks for the info
Cynthia R says
I sen thte info to a friend who is having her first baby. She is pretty frugal so I’m sure she will appreciate the insight.