The Best Ideas for Expecting Moms Who Want to Save Money

The Best Ideas for Expecting Moms Who Want to Save Money

Are you looking for ways to stretch your budget?  As you prepare for your little one’s arrival, it doesn’t take long to realize motherhood is an expensive journey.  Read on for some practical tips to help make the most of every penny you spend.

Well-Chosen Maternity Wear

While it’s obvious your body will undergo a variety of changes throughout pregnancy, finding comfortable and affordable clothing can be more of a conundrum.  One of the best ways to stretch your wardrobe and budget at the same time is to invest in maternity clothing that can carry over after your baby is born.  For instance, high-waisted maternity leggings can flex with your body’s changes, and they are a versatile addition to your wardrobe.  Consider pairing them with other flexible garments, such as a soft nursing shirt, and also add some button down shirts, wrap dresses, and elastic-waist skirts to your wardrobe. 

Gear That Grows Up

All moms are amazed at how quickly their babies grow, and many of the sweet things you purchase can quickly lose usefulness.  However, there are numerous baby gear items that can grow with your little one, so you can savor using them much longer.  What Moms Love recommends multi-functional baby products, like a bouncer and swing combo chair, play table that becomes a desk, and a riding toy that becomes a scooter.  It’s a great way to enjoy those items longer.  

Furniture for the Future

Outfitting your nursery is exciting, but purchasing baby furniture can quickly add up.  Rather than buying pieces you’ll need to swap out after a short time, invest in options that can grow with your child.  Convertible cribs provide a safe sleeping space for your infant through the toddling years, and some incorporate a changing table which can work as shelving or storage later.  Along those same lines, there are changing tables that convert into dressers as your youngster grows, and some thrifty moms simply restyle a dresser to meet their needs.  

Dollar-stretching Decor

Putting together a pleasing palette in the nursery is big fun, and there are all sorts of appropriate combinations that evoke cheer.  In order to create a space you won’t need to change frequently, HGTV recommends a color scheme that includes a neutral backdrop.  By using quiet colors on the walls, you can change things up later with ease.  Think in terms of creamy white, pale sage, or light tan.  By avoiding hues associated with specific genders, the environment will be more flexible long-term.  You can test drive colors with clever paint apps you simply add to your smartphone.  

Another idea is to avoid strong themes throughout your baby’s room.  Stick with an appearance suitable for older children, like geometric designs, travel themes, or decor inspired by nature.  Avoid things that won’t be appropriate in just a couple years, like cartoon wallpaper, ABC’s, and nursery rhymes.  

Earth-, Baby-, and Budget-Friendly

When it comes to making affordable choices, little can beat those that are gentle on your baby and kind to the environment.  A calming tincture from Compassionate Care Doula can help with sleep (yours as well!) and teething. Another idea is to DIY your own products, since it gives you the opportunity to control the ingredients that touch your baby’s skin.  You can make your own laundry detergent from baby-safe ingredients, as well as gentle baby wipes and baby wash.  

With future generations in mind, some moms elect to go with eco-friendly diapers or cloth diapers.  Using a diaper service can also cut your environmental footprint.  They do bulk laundry loads meaning less electricity and water goes into washing the cloth.  If you’re on the fence about whether a diaper service is a worthwhile choice, study the pros and cons before making your decision.  

Welcoming a new life into the world is an amazing experience.  There is a lot to do in preparation, and with a few clever strategies you’ll be ready without blowing your budget.  Look for flexible clothing and decor that will adjust as life changes, and choose products that are gentle and smart.  Your baby will be here before you know it, and with your good choices you’ll be ready to savor every moment.  

For breastfeeding support, self-care and meal preparation tips, and advice on reducing postpartum depression, contact the experts at Compassionate Care Doula today at 631-268-4119!

Written by Jenna Sherman. Thank you! For more information from Jenna, you can follow her on Parent-leaders.com or jennasherman@parent-leaders.com