Expecting a bundle of joy is an exciting time full of bliss and wonder. However, becoming a new parent can be a daunting task to say the least. As exciting of a time as this is, it’s totally normal to have feelings of uncertainty—especially when it involves the huge expenses that come with having a baby.  

The Cost of Raising a Baby

Having and raising a baby isn’t cheap. According to a USDA report, it costs middle-income families anywhere from  $12,000 to $14,000 per year on child-related expenses alone. Here is a quick look at average expenses for each necessary baby item:

• Diapers: $70 – $80 per month 
• Formula: $50 – $150 per month
• Clothing: $60 per month 
• Baby Food: $83 per month 
• Doctors’ Visits: $3,000+ for the first year 

Not only that, but you must take into account other things like furniture, equipment, childcare, and more. With all of these expenses, it’s safe to say you’ll be looking for any opportunity to save money on baby supplies! 

Here are a few tips and tricks that can help you save money and prepare for motherhood.

1. Leverage Gently Used Supplies

Reusing baby items is a great way to save some extra cash! However, not all baby items are suitable as a hand-me-down. Below is a list of items that should be great for reuse, but keep in mind that some items may have manufacturer expiration dates you should observe for safety:

• Clothing
• Car seats
• Furniture
• Toys
• Baby monitor
• Carrier
• Stroller
• Bouncer/swing

2. Sign up for registries. Registries are a great way to receive samples or full-size products for your baby! Some great places to start include Amazon Baby Registry and Babylist. 

3. Coupon Chief has a list of the best free baby stuff you can get, including products, samples, coupons, and more. This is a great resource that covers almost all the basic needs for your baby at virtually no cost.

4. Join a community. Thanks to social media, connecting with people can be as simple as a click of a button. Facebook groups are a great way for mothers to support each other, share advice, or sell lightly used items. 

To all the new mothers and mothers-to-be out there––you are amazing! It is easy to get overwhelmed with the finances of having a baby, the lack of sleep, and tremendous responsibility it takes to be a mom. Nonetheless, it is important to acknowledge your own needs and mental health from time to time. It can seem impossible at times, but taking time for yourself is necessary and important. Whether it’s taking a bath after baby falls asleep or catching up on your favorite show while a partner or family member is on baby duty, some “me-time” is essential. Here are a few more ways new moms can catch a break.

Remember to be patient and kind to yourself. Use these printables of inspirational mantras and quotes to practice self-love and give yourself a gentle reminder of your incredible achievements as a mother.

Whether you’re expecting or just welcomed a new arrival into your family, these tips and tricks are a sure way to save you money so you can spend less time worrying about finances and more time with your new bundle of joy. Congratulations on the newest addition to your family!

Marielle Lea

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

Marielle Lea is a passionate creative who writes for Coupon Chief on topics related to e-commerce, personal finance, and small business strategy.