Preparing for your new arrival
Congratulations, you’re expecting a baby!
Having a child is, so they say, the singularly most wonderful experience in any person’s life; it’s what we’re here for, after all. However, not wishing to sound mercenary, the effects on the wallet are somewhat significant also.
Of course, if everyone waited until they were in a suitable financial position before having children, then the human race would have died out centuries ago. The reality is, having a baby is not cheap. However, there are ways you can cut down on the baby bills, here are just a few suggestions.
Equipment is essential, but you can be savvy about what you buy. For instance, there are pushchairs on the market that will see your baby through to walking stage, transportation systems that transform from a pram, to a car seat, to an upright stroller. All in one purchase.
If during these years baby number two arrives, then consider buying a baby board – a reinforced plastic step which attached to the back of the pushchair or pram upon which child number one can stand and ride.
Admittedly, you will be tired and this tip might not seem like the most attractive proposition, but when it comes to saving money, making your own baby food is extremely economical. Simply puree some fruit or vegetables, maybe some pasta and sauce.
Obviously do some research first, don’t just blitz the leftover curry. The advantage of this is that you know exactly what is going into your baby’s mouth and while baby food is nutritionally balanced, it’s still nice to give them something home made. Plus is saves!
Don’t be ashamed to buy second hand goods and clothes. If you’re friends don’t have anything to hand, look at eBay, Gumtree or the local paper. The thing with babies is that they grow. Quickly. So spending hundreds of pounds on cute outfits can be a waste of money.
Next time you’re in the high street, pop into a charity shop, you’ll be amazed at the good quality items that people give away. This goes for equipment also, so do shop around before getting carried away. You can really save some money through buying ‘pre-loved’ goods.
Hopefully this gives you an idea about where you can start to make some savings for when your precious bundle arrives.