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Published by Programme B
Having a baby is a huge adjustment, not only physically but mentally and, of course, financially as well. It can seem overwhelming to start a family, and you might wonder how others can afford it. It could be challenging, but you definitely can make it work.
Babies indeed need a lot of stuff, but that doesn’t mean you have to buy the fanciest equipment or furniture. It is possible to prepare for a baby on a budget with a little planning!
How to prepare for a baby on a tight budget
- Write down your expenses – Keep track of all the money that is leaving your and your partner’s bank account. Do not forget those little trips to the supermarket between the weekly shop and the coffee you buy on the way to work every day. This will allow you to see where you can make cuts.
- Make a list of baby items to buy – It’s tempting to buy the first cute baby item you find at a baby store as soon as you find out you’re pregnant. Focusing on a list will prevent you from spending randomly.
- Only buy essentials – You don’t need every baby product just because it’s available. It doesn’t make you less of a parent if you do not buy all the products available. Keeping your newborn on a budget means sticking to the essentials, like organic baby formula, diapers, wipes, rash cream, and essential baby clothes.
- Be aware of your hospital expenses – Don’t choose a private room if you don’t have insurance, as you could end up paying $100’s/day. Your maternity ward will be able to give you a breakdown of all the potential fees you could face. This allows you to prepare ahead of time what to opt out of and estimate your expected baby budget more accurately.
- Consider second-hand items – There are a lot of clothing and blankets you can find on eBay or on secondhand Facebook groups. It’s also great to ask your friends and family about this stuff. Newborn clothes are typically worn just a couple of times as babies grow so fast that they’re practically brand new.
- Make the nursery decor as simple as possible – It doesn’t matter what the nursery looks like to your baby. You do not need fancy decorations or pictures. Keep it simple!
- Ask for baby items as gifts – There are plenty of occasions that you can receive baby items as gifts. It may be Christmas, a birthday, a baby shower, or the first time your family sees your child. Whenever these occasions arise, let everyone know that you only need baby necessities.
- Don’t buy too many new toys – It is hard to know what type of toys your child will enjoy, so buying too many before they are able to use them is a waste. You should start small with simple toys that babies will be able to handle and then let their interests guide you.
Final thoughts
The cost of having a baby doesn’t have to be high. By planning ahead and using money-saving strategies, you can drastically reduce your expenses. It is possible to get baby essentials at reasonable prices and fulfill all their needs without spending a fortune.
Photo by Bruno Silva x pexels.com