We would all like to save more money. Not only does it provide us with financial security, it also lets us live a little more. However, life is expensive and unfortunately, utility bills and similar things cost a lot of money. For example, in 2018, Move.org studied every state and determined how much consumers in each one paid every month on average for utilities. In Texas, for example, the average cost was $409.78. Take that out of your wages each month, and it’s sure to be a big hit. Now add a baby into the mix, and all of a sudden money is getting incredibly short. Babies are expensive-there really aren’t many ways around it. This is where saving money wherever becomes so important! We all know the age-old tricks to save money on our bills, like switching providers to cheaper deals and using things like the Home Energy Club Discount Rates (Houston-Spring page). But what else can be done? Taking good care of a child costs money. That said, there are ways to save money while ensuring a happy and healthy baby. We’ve compiled a list of some of the different ways to save money when you’re having a baby. It’ll still be expensive, but hopefully not as painfully so!
Look Into Hospital Costs
One of the biggest costs you’ll face when you have a baby is the hospital bill. The cost of delivery is a steep one, so make sure to look into what your insurance covers. The procedures your insurance covers and what they cost can vary across hospitals in the same city. Do some research to see which hospital has the best choices for you.
Shop Used When You Can
We can’t stress this enough-buy used baby items when you can! As expensive as babies are, they grow even faster, and that tends to be a reason why that price tag can add up. Do yourself a favor and shop at thrift stores and secondhand shops when you can. You can buy tons of items used for your baby, such as strollers (just make sure to check up on safety standards). If you follow through, you’ll end up saving quite a bit of money.
Get Free Samples from Your Doctor
Chances are you and your baby frequently head to the doctor’s office for checkups. Use this as an opportunity to ask for any samples they have to offer. Many pediatricians offer samples of formula, diapers, ointments, and more. They may not be able to give you a lot, but the free products can help you save money for the first few weeks.
Do a Maternity Clothes Swap
Of course, you’ll save money by buying used clothes for the baby, but what about for you? Maternity clothes can get pretty expensive as well, so if any of your friends were recently pregnant, see if you can arrange a little clothing swap. Whether you only share maternity clothes or share some baby clothes as well, this is another way to do some secondhand “shopping.” It’s one of our favorite ways to save money when you’re having a baby!
Start Clipping Coupons
When you’re shopping, you may be tempted to simply grab the first item you see on the shelf. Don’t! You’ll save a lot more money if you do some research beforehand to see which brands are the least expensive. It might not always be the same brand each time you shop. Looking through coupons may take some time, but it’ll save you money in the long run!
