Having a baby means you have to adjust your budget in many different ways. Instead of spending your disposable income on fancy dining experiences and impromptu movie dates, you’ll likely be purchasing clothing, toys, diapers and food for your new little one.
High Desert parents should prepare for the cost of a new baby prior to the arrival of their precious bundle of joy. At first, the price of parenthood may seem daunting but there are ways to save a few dollars along the way. At Reza Ahmadinia OBGYN, we recommend these cost-saving tips for new parents in Hesperia and beyond.
How Can I Save Money on Baby Essentials?
Attempt to breastfeed for as long as possible in order to avoid spending a lot of money on formula, which is known for being expensive. Breastfeeding is not only the healthiest option for your baby, but it also is completely free nutrition for your child.
However, many mothers decide that they cannot or do not want to breastfeed. If you choose to feed your child formula, you can still save money by contacting the formula companies in order to sign up for coupon programs. You also may consider generic brand formula, which is significantly less expensive than name brand formula. In most cases, generic formula contains the exact same ingredients.
Consider using cloth diapers as opposed to disposable diapers. Cloth diapers dipped in popularity in the 1970s and 1980s, but they are now making a come back. These new-and-improved cloth diaper systems make it easy and practical to use these diapers again. They are eco-friendly and also much less expensive than using disposable diapers, which can cost up to $1,000 annually.
Shop local consignment shops and garage sales for gently used baby clothes. Babies are notorious for growing quickly and needing new clothes, which means they often don’t get a lot of use out of the outfits that they have. Consignment shops often have great deals on clothes that have barely been worn by other infants.
Consider your child care options. Perhaps staying home with your infant or working from home is the best way to save on child care costs, but working moms also can consider asking a friend or relative to babysit. If these are not options for you, you can also consider at-home daycare centers and nanny services which may be more affordable than traditional daycare centers.
Adjusting your budget in order to prepare for a new baby is just one of the many life changes that is to come. However, you will find that all of these changes, adjustments and sacrifices are worth it as you are snuggling your newborn child.
If you need financial assistance or are hoping to get in touch with community organizations that may be able to help you as you transition into parenthood, be sure to talk with Dr. Ahmadinia at your next prenatal appointment. As an OB/GYN expert, Dr. Ahmadinia can help connect you with community resources that may be able to help you on your journey into parenthood.
