Having a new baby is many things from scary, to exciting to a total blast, but one thing it doesn’t have to be is expensive.  Many people will tell you that you have to have thousands of dollars to prepare for a baby and aside from your medical expenses, this is simply untrue.  There are things that you can do to prepare for a baby that doesn’t stretch your budget!

Here are a couple of tips to keep in mind when you are expecting.

Have a Shower – If someone is offering to throw you a baby shower, definitely say yes.  People love shopping for baby stuff, so let them.  That is that much less stuff that you have to buy.  Plus, they are fun!!

Wait For Baby – Yep, this is one of the most simple things you can do to save.  The fact of the matter is, you don’t need to have every little thing before the baby is born, so don’t splurge on it all before the baby arrives.  Don’t let the stores and all the ads convince you that you need it all, because you don’t. Wait until your little one is here and then decide what you need and what you want.

Here are the things you will need before the baby arrives:

• Bottles and Formula (unless you are breastfeeding)
• Bassinet/crib with bedding
• Diapers and wipes
• Car seat
• Blankets
• Clothing

Shop Sales – Just like any other shopping you do, make sure you hit the sales, especially the clearance sales!  The fact is, babies are babies for only so long and they grow quickly.  Don’t pay full price for something that is literally only going to be worn a handful of times.

Borrow from Friends or Family – Do you know anyone who has young children?  They likely have clothes and gear that they aren’t using.  See if you can borrow this stuff from them to save you from buying it all together.  Remember when we talked about how quickly babies grow?  Most gear isn’t used long at all.

Sign up for WIC – WIC is a great resource for food and formula for young children and mothers.  You would be surprised at the income guidelines too, so if you are needing formula, they are a great resource.