Yes having babies means extra expenses for the rest of your life. Clothes, formula, food, diapers, cribs, etc. it all adds up. My first paid job, besides babysitting, was working at a thrift store so my penny pinching ways have never left me, especially into parenthood. Here are some ways I have saved money:
Buying/selling at baby resale stores. Let’s face it, kids grow out of clothes so fast, why are we spending more money on their outfits than our own?! That’s why I have fallen in love with the baby resale store and the thrift stores. Also many baby resale stores will purchase items from you for cash or store credit. Win-win! From clothes to toys, these places will save you the most money.
Buying/selling online. I have found some great items for sale online. Saving hundreds of dollars on a double stroller was the best feeling! I have also made some money selling items that we don’t use anymore. Just remember to meet in a public place.
Buying in bulk. This will save a few bucks every time you are buying diapers and formula. Those few bucks every transaction add up though when you are buying diapers for several years!
NOT buying. Might be the most obvious tip, but sometimes we need the reminder. Stay away from the baby aisles when you really don’t need anything! When I went to register for our baby shower, I became overwhelmed. My husband said the best sentence ever, “Just because they make it, doesn’t mean we need to buy it.” There are so many crazy inventions nowadays that just aren’t needed. Perfect example: baby wipes warmer.