Do you have a little bundle of joy on the way? I always felt overwhelmed with all the baby items I could get. I just didn’t have the funds to get one of everything. The truth is, there are some essentials you need, but you don’t want to break the bank. These Baby Essentials on a Budget will get you started in the right direction.
Baby Essentials on a Budget + Free Printable Baby Checklist
Having a baby can be exciting and overwhelming all at the same time but it doesn’t have to break the bank. You can have a baby on a budget, you just need to shop wisely and be sure you are getting the essentials.
Here are a few tips to help save you money on baby essentials:
Tip #1 – Figure out the needs vs the wants
Start by making a list of the things you will need for the baby and a second list for items you may not need but want. This can help you narrow down your list. Start with the bare essentials and go from there.
Tip #2 – Create A Baby Registry
Creating a registry has benefits, plus it will give friends and family a way to shop directly for the items you want. There are a lot of different stores that allow you to create registries, some will even give you a welcome box for it!
Amazon’s Universal Registry
- Allows you to add any item from any site to your registry
- Prime members receive a free welcome box (a $35 value) – you’ll need to complete a registry using Checklist and have a $10 purchase from the registry (either by you or gifters)
- A group gifting option is available so multiple people can contribute towards the more expensive items
- Completion discount – Prime members can save 15% on eligible items after completing the registry
Babylist
- Universal registry so you can add items from any site
- Eligible members get a free box of goodies for parents and baby
- You can even ask for cash funds, home cooked meals, or help with other activities
Tip #3 – Shop Clearance or Used
Baby clothes can get extremely expensive, but you can always shop the clearance section at your favorite store or buy used clothing. Babies grow quickly so secondhand stores and garage sales are your friend when it comes to buying clothes. Unisex colors are perfect and can easily be picked up a discounted price.
The same can go for maternity clothes. Many moms don’t even use maternity clothes, but if you choose to, used clothes will save you a ton of money.
If you plan to breastfeed, buy a used pump or borrow an electric pump. The plastic attachments are what cannot be shared but you can purchase an attachment starter kit, which is cheaper than buying a brand-new breastfeeding pump.
Tip #4 – Take Advantage of Samples and Freebies
A lot of times you can request samples and free goodies from different baby brands. Coupons are usually included with the samples to help save money if you decide you like the products. For example, formula brands like Similac or Enfamil send coupons and samples when you join their club.
Baby Essentials on a Budget: What You Will Need
- Crib & Crib Mattress
- 4-5 fitted crib sheets
- 5-6 receiving blankets & swaddle blankets
- Infant car seat
- Baby wrap or sling
- Formula or breastfeeding essentials
- Diapers, Wipes & Diaper Cream
- Bottles & pacifiers
- Onesies, socks, and a few outfits
- Infant tub & Baby Wash
- Nasal aspirator, Thermometer, Infant Tylenol & Nail Clippers
Baby Essentials on a Budget: What You Can Get by Without
- Changing table – use changing pads or a place a towel or sheet instead
- Wipe Warmer – to warm up the wipes just use your hands
- Bottle Warmer – babies don’t really need warm milk, it’s just preference for some, so just use warm water for formula
- Diaper Genie – use a trash can with a pedal to lift the lid
- Crib Bedding and Pillows – cute but useless and also has a high risk of SIDS (a fitted crib sheet and a light receiving blanket instead)
- Baby Shoes – besides wanting them for the cuteness, babies don’t need shoes until they are able to walk so just use socks to keep their feet warm
- Diaper Bag – you can use a backpack or large purse for a less expensive route
- Baby Hangers – use a small dresser or section off part of your dresser for baby clothes
- Highchair – wait until they are old enough to sit up on their own before buying a highchair
- Baby Towels, Burp Clothes & Washcloths – just use regular towels and washcloths you have at home
You can have a baby on a budget! Go with the bare essentials to start out with and purchase the others if you decide you want them and can afford them.
Click here to get your free printable.