Archive | November, 2008

What You Need To Travel Cheap

What You Need To Travel Cheap

Baby Travel Needs

Traveling with a baby can be a nightmare. Not only can this be tough on you physically and mentally, but you must also keep a close watch on your finances. Doesn’t sound like a lot of fun, does it? Of course, this is taking things to extremes. You can most definitely travel cheaply with a baby no matter what situation you are in. And once you do this a few times you will make things much easier on yourself in the future.  Traveling with a baby can also be wonderful!

Tips for Travel On A Budget:

  • Don’t Be Afraid To Say, “No.” If you’re traveling with older toddlers and they’re old enough to ask you for things, don’t be afraid to say, “no.”  This is one biggy that will save you lots of money on stuff you or your toddler don’t need.  We all want to show our kids that we love them and we want them to have nice things.  ..But they don’t have to have everything! Consider teaching your kids how to be selective and buy smart – even at the age of 2.  It’s never too early to lead by example.  When you’re out shopping, especially when traveling, let them see that you want some things too, but you’re not going to get it because you simply choose “not right now.”  Let them know by being expressive and verbally say to yourself, “Gee, I want that, but I’m not going to get it right now.”  Let the child hear you and learn.  The “not right now” phrase will help a lot when a toddler is considering “a moment” in the checkout line and doesn’t understand why he’s not getting that toy.  If you feel that it’s not an item that you really need or want to buy, don’t be afraid to say, “no,” and stick to it.  Don’t get in the habbit of tossing extra items in your cart just to satisfy Junior and avoid a melt down.  You would only be setting yourself up for failure down the road (when the items get more expensive.)  Good habbits, including good spending habbits form early.
  • The Essentials, To Go. Make sure that you have enough diapers, wipes, formula, bottles, and more diapers.  This little thing alone is going to save you money because you can pretty much guarantee that the diapers and formula you have to buy in an airport or a hotel courtesy shop are not going to be cheap.  Not to mention the fact that carting your baby in and out of a store is never easy, especially with multiple kids.  Baby wipes are a prized thing to have when you’re traveling.  Only now, they’re not just for the baby.  Keep these handy and your trip will be cleaner and probably smell a little nicer too.  Remember one thing:  Vacations are not for diaper shopping.
  • Baby Food On The Go. No matter how old your baby, make sure that you have enough food to last the duration of your travel. This is one area that many parents underestimate time after time. Remember, it is better to pack too much food than not enough. Dining out with your baby can be done!  If you’re dining out in a restaurant with the baby, consider packing a small snack dish of baby food.  You can find small baby packs for food travel in most grocery stores or Walmart or Target.  These mini snack keepers are a must have when you’re on the go.  If you do pull out a baby food on the table at a restaurant, don’t worry.  Most restaurants respect that you need to feed the baby baby food and not a chicken club.  And any good waiter would even offer to warm it up.
  • Sleep and Save Money.  Have you ever thought about how much money stress can cost you?  If you think about it, we pay for all sorts of de-stressing things from products to spa treatments.  How much money do you think you would save if you never had to buy Asprin, IBprofen, Starbucks, Energy Drinks, Supplements, or that $80 massage?  We also tend to over eat and drink alcohol because of stress.  A lot of family travel budgets are busted when it comes to all day snacking and fast food joints.  How much money would you save on your travel food bill if you (and the baby) got a good night sleep everynight and stuck to a normal eating routine?  Take a note from your baby.  Let your body rest, drink lots of water, and feel your best throughout the day.
  • Stay Organized. If you want to travel with your baby in tote while staying frugal you need to be organized. This means that you should have all of the proper baby items in an obvious place, and your budget should be laid out in front of you.  I once had “a friend” who would have to buy the most basic baby things over and over again because she simply wasn’t organized and couldn’t find anything when she needed it.  This was rediculous and I had to step in with some see-thru storage bins.  If you’re in this situation too, you’re throwing money out the window.  Get some help from some friends if you have to, but get organized.  It’s not just important to know what you have, but know where it is.  And there’s nothing wrong with buying things along the way if they fit a need and fit your budget.

Soon enough you will want to take your baby on the road with you.  When the time comes, have fun traveling cheap!

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Frugal Travel

Frugal Travel

Baby Travel

There is nothing worse than traveling with a baby and learning that you forgot something you needed at home. If you run into this situation it means you will have to stop along the way to purchase what you need.  This is not frugal traveling. In turn, you are wasting money.  As a frugal consumer and traveler this is sure to bother you around the 3rd time you realize you’re out of wipes and you have to pay double what they should cost, at the corner drug store.

Here are five items that you need to take with you when traveling with your baby:

  1. Diapers. Your best bet when traveling are disposable diapers. This way you can throw them out along the way instead of having to worry about where you are going to do the laundry.  Consider getting one of those space bags to store your diapers in the suitcase.  These are super space savers and the more you can pack, the less you will have to buy on the trip.
  2. Baby Food. Be sure to take more food than you think you will need. It is much better to take too much than not enough. Depending on where you travel to, baby food might not always be as easily accessible as it is at home.  When you’re on vacation, that is not the time to be testing out new baby food either.  This is when you want to keep some things the same as they would be at home.  Traveling can sometimes be stressful for babies too and nothing soothes a baby’s stress like the same milk and baby cereal they’re used to.  Plus, You don’t want to be stopping and trying to find the right food during your trip.  A hunt for baby food should be the last thing on your travel agenda.
  3. Toys and a Goodnight Book. You definitely want to take toys and a goodnight book when traveling with a baby. This will help to keep your baby happy and occupied on the plane while allowing you to save money too. If you don’t take any toys you may find yourself at the store shopping around for something to keep your baby occupied.  Plus, toys can also bring a sense of calm and comfort.  Remember the magic of the baby blanket?  It could be the perfect thing that calms your baby on the plane.  That and their favorite toys.  This is a fun suggestion:  Check out MyCreateABook.com.  This kid’s publishing company will actually personalize a children’s book for you.  I can’t think of anything else more perfect to take on a trip than a great story with the child’s name and story in it.  They have existing stories and books that you simply plug your child’s or children’s name into.  The average personalized book costs about $12.97   A pretty great deal!  ..Not to mention a whole lot of fun for a toddler to show off on your travels.
  4. Baby Clothes. This goes without saying, but you want to take enough clothes to get you through your entire trip. Remember to plan for unexpected events. You never know when you will spill something and an entire outfit will be lost before the day even begins.  When you’re on your trip, that is not the time to be hunting for bargains on pants and socks.  Give yourself the pleasure of actually enjoying your vacation. Consider traveling with a stain remover pen.  This could save you some extra laundry time later, not to mention save you from throwing out stained clothing.
  5. Stroller and Car Seat. Don’t get so caught up in the other items that you forget to take a stroller and car seat with you. It is particularly easy to forget these items if you are not traveling by car.
    Depending on what country or city you’re traveling to, the child might need a car seat.  Imagine how much money you would waste by being forced to purchase a stroller or car seat upon reaching your destination.  And you don’t want to use those cheapo car seats that the rental car company will try to rent you.  I’m sure they’re up to safety codes, but those things are just dirty!  Think through your trip and decide whether you will need a car seat or not.  If there is any chance you will (even on a tour or something), bring it!  Don’t take a chance.  Use car seats in taxies whether it’s required or not.  Same goes for strollers.  Strollers are a must have for babies and toddlers.  Even traveling with a three year old that should be pushing me, I’m thankful for bringing the stroller along everytime.  The stroller is a gift from heaven!  Even if you typically don’t use a stroller, bring one.  Strollers keep your kids from getting overly exhausted (especially when travelling), it’s good exercise for you, and it’s one way to keep your baby or big kid safe, where you can see them.

Frugal travel with your baby is more than possible if you take the above five items along for the ride.

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Discount Baby Toys

Discount Baby Toys

Baby Toys Cheap


When buying baby toys you should have two things in mind. First off, you want to buy those that are of high quality. You don’t want to risk your baby’s health by purchasing toys that are dangerous; this goes without saying but it important to remember. Secondly, you want to find baby toys that are affordable. There are many expenses that you are sure to run into as a parent, and by saving money on baby toys you will be in a much better position.

With quality and affordability in mind, the question that you have to answer is: where are you going to find baby toys that fit this mold? This question is not difficult to answer as the baby industry is huge.

The first place to search is at a toy store. This is obvious enough, and is the first place that most new parents check. In order to save money make sure you consider a wide variety of toys, especially those that are on sale.

Can I buy baby toys online? You sure can. In fact, this is a great idea if money is on your mind. Most parents agree that the internet allows them to not only find the toys that they want, but also those that are more affordable. With so many online stores selling baby toys you should be able to find the lowest price possible.

Believe it or not, you can purchase used baby toys. Of course, you only want to do this with certain types of toys. In other words, don’t buy anything used that cannot be cleaned. For instance, plastic toys are fine to purchase used because they can be disinfected. But stuffed animals, for example, should always be purchased new.

All in all, there are many places to buy quality, affordable baby toys. The more places you shop the better chance you have of finding the right toys at the right price.

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Where to Buy Baby Toys On The Cheap!

Where to Buy Baby Toys On The Cheap!

Buying Baby Toys


Having a baby can be a lot of work and it can cost you a lot of money. But at the same time there is nothing better than spoiling your baby. Of course, you cannot afford to go overboard in this department. If you are buying baby toys you need to learn how to do so on the cheap. There is nothing wrong with buying some things here and there, but only if you can afford to do so.

First things first, you need to have a budget for toys. This can be hard to stick to because you will definitely want to give your baby the best of the best. But if you have a budget you can be sure that you will never overdo it and spend more than you can afford. To go along with this, a budget will ensure that you don’t spend your money on toys when you should be buying other more important items such as clothing, food, diapers, etc.

Secondly, keep in mind that your baby is going to grow. The toys that you buy today may not be what your baby wants to play with next year or even next month. This can be a hard pill to swallow especially if you are constantly spending money on toys that are not being used. If possible, purchase toys that your baby may want to play with for at least six month or a year. This is not always possible and can be difficult to do, but you should try nonetheless for the sake of staying frugal.

The amount that you spend on baby toys is up to you. If you are attempting to stay frugal and save money you will need a budget while you also carefully consider the toys that you purchase.  Before you set out for that next toy purchase, ask yourself if you can find any coupon offers or where that could possibly be on sale.  If you keep your eyes open during major holidays, some stores have big sales on baby and toddler toys.  Especially places like BabiesRUs.com, NetKidsWear.com, or Targt.com.  You can also check out used kids toys online at Amazon.com, Ebay.com and Craigslist.com.  Amazon is a great spot to pick up baby books for $1 and they offer free shipping with certain purchases.

Having a new baby doesn’t mean you have to be on lock down with your money.  Enjoy spending your money.  Try not to think about it like you’re not able to afford better things, so you have to buy used.  Instead, think of it as a challenge.  Try to have fun being frugal and enjoy your savings on something fun for you too!

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Breastfeeding can be frugal..

Breastfeeding can be frugal..

Breastfeeding Tips


Do you plan on breastfeeding your baby? If so, you may be worried about potential problems. While you are sure to run into difficulties, it is nothing that should stop you in the long run. The more you know about breast feeding the better off you will be when the time comes.

Here are several breastfeeding tips to keep in mind:

  1. Soon after birth you should attempt to place the baby at your breast. The earlier your baby gets used to this way of feeding the better off you both will be in the long run. If possible, you should do this in the delivery room. It is never too early to get your baby acclimated to this process.
  2. Nurse for as long as the baby is interested in feeding. Many new mothers are surprised to find out that their baby may feed for up to 45 minutes. If your baby is still feeding let them be until he is done.
  3. Don’t nurse your baby while he is screaming or crying. Instead, wait until your baby calms down and then try again. You are not going to make much progress with a baby that is screaming and crying so it is much better to wait.
  4. Get yourself in a comfortable position before starting. As noted above, your baby may feed for up to 45 minutes. For this reason it is very important that you are in a comfortable position.
  5. If you begin to feel pain or discomfort pull the baby away from your breast and try again.


These five breastfeeding tips should help you to get started
. Although you are sure to encounter problems from time to time, if you get an early start and bond with your baby at the hospital you will be well on your way to success in this area.

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Frugal Feeding: When Your Baby Won't Eat

Frugal Feeding: When Your Baby Won't Eat

What To Do When Baby Won't Eat


There is nothing more frustrating for a parent than a baby who won’t eat. If you are dealing with this situation it is safe to say that you will be feeling many emotions. On one side of things your main concern will be making sure that nothing is wrong with your baby. But on the other hand the frugal side of you is sure to come out sooner or later. After all, you can only waste so much food before you begin to see an effect on your bottom line. There are ways that you can save money even if your baby won’t eat.

Stop putting it down the drain! Try to buy and prepare baby food that can be easily saved in the fridge.  Don’t rely on food that cannot be saved for later. This way if your baby doesn’t eat you can always save the food and try again in a few hours. If you attempt to feed your baby food that can’t be saved, you may be wasting a lot of money down the drain and in your waste can.

Stick it in the freezer.  Don’t forget how to use your freezer.  Many babies don’t eat there entire bowl full of cereal or mashed peas.  If your baby is only eating a certain amount on a regular basis, consider serving that amount and just a pinch more every tiime.  That way if you have prepared extra servings, you can stick them in the freezer for another time.  Freezing things in individual small freezer bags is ideal.   This allows you to thaw out only the amount of baby food that you want to prepare again.  It’s also a great way to prepare for traveling too.  A bag of frozen peas is a fun snack to have in the car or on the plane.  No matter where you’re traveling to, snacking can also be fun and frugal.

Have you ever tried to find what your baby likes to eat? In other words, don’t rely on food that your baby does not like.  This is going to be a clear waste of your time, patients, and money.  You want to make sure that your baby gets all the proper vitamins and nutrients, but at the same time you don’t want to continually buy food that is going to end up in the sink or in the garbage can. It may take some time and experimentation to find the type of food that your baby likes the most, but in the end this will work out in your favor.

Coupons, Coupons, Coupons! Coupons are a parents best friend when it comes to trips to the grocery store.  Parents want to buy the good stuff, the good heavy whole grain breads, organic milks, and all that beautiful organic produce.  But they just seem too expensive, right?  Check out all these online pages that offer printable coupons and e-coupons:  GroceryCoupons, Coupons.com, Printable-coupons.com,

Favorite Pick: CouponDiscounts.com is a favorite because they have a zip code search to find local coupons from stores located nearest to you.  You can change your zip code too if you’re on vacation away froom home.  Go get your coupons before your next trip to the store!

Favorite Pick: CouponMom.com is also good for local searching.  You can search by city and state for coupons on groceries, diapers, formula, kid care products, baby products, ect.  You name it, it’s on CouponMom.com.  I found their links to more expensive baby items, like formula, to be very good.  I followed through the links to Enfamil.com and also big formula maker, Similac.com.  Also be sure to click on the ones for Earth’s Best and other baby food specific items.  Sometimes you can sign up on these sites for future promo and free sample offers.  Free samples are perfect for tossing in the diaper bag, taking to restaurants, ect.  So stock up on anything you can get your frugal hands on!

Be frugal, but be cautious. Dont waste your time filling out those forms that are obviously scamming you for your personal information.  If the form asks you for your birthdate, give a fake one.  If it asks you for your SSN #, never, never, never give it out.  If you want to be extra cautious about giving out your information in sample offer forms, create a new seperate email account, use an alias name and never use your real birthdate.  Use a birthdate that is similar in age range, so you don’t mess up any statistics that the company is trying to figure out, but if your birthday is on the 20th, say it’s the 22nd instead.  Little things like that will not hurt anyone, but will help maintain your security.

Club Cards were invented for a reason. Do you shop at a major grocery store like Safeway, King Soopers, or Albertsons?  Not only do they have their own coupons on their company websites, but they all have club cards for extra savings on top of whatever coupons you use.  Avid coupon clippers save a ton of money every year by snipping coupons and using virtual e-coupons now.  If you’re not using coupons and club cards, you’re throwing money out the window.  If you don’t have one already, get one a.s.a.p.  It’s another great way to save money on your baby food needs.  The most expensive items that new parents continue to buy is diapers and formula.  Check out the article titled:  Baby Food Coupons for quick links to get discounted and even free samples of baby formula and free diapers and wipes from Pampers and Huggies!  Put coupons to good use and enjoy the money you’ll be saving on something more fun than baby formula.

Frugal feeding as a parent. You don’t want to skimp when it comes to quality foods for your baby, but at the same time you need to keep your budget in mind. If you follow the tips above you should be able to stay within your budget while also making sure that your baby gets the right food from day one.

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Discount Baby Clothes


Saving money on baby clothes is something most parents are interested in doing. The question is: where are you going to shop for clothes that are more affordable than the norm? This is not always an easy question to answer; especially if you are a parent for the first time.  Of course, you will learn as you go along. And once you have a better idea of where to shop and how to save you will be well on your way to keeping more money in your pocket for years to come.

Shop at second hand and thrift stores.  Second hand shops are a great place to pick up baby and kids clothing.  It’s no great surprise that babies grow so fast that they often only where a few outfits before they don’t fit them anymore.  If you go to your local Goodwill or Savers thrift store, you’ll find baby items on the rack with the tags still on them.  It’s a shame, but it’s your gain.  How about consignment shops? Both of these options are perfect if you are in the market for cheap baby clothes. While you may be purchasing second hand items, most of what you find will be in good shape and likely only warn a few times before the child outgrew them. When you compare prices from a second hand store to a regular retail outlet it is easy to see just how much money you can save.  You can find great deals in thrift stores.

What about outlet stores? Many big cities have outlet malls full of stores selling off items for less than retail. If you have an outlet mall in your area you should definitely take a closer look to see how much you can save on clothes for your baby. You may be surprised to learn that you can buy name brand clothing at a second hand price.  This is especially a good place to shop if you have twins or multiples and you’re looking for similar outfits or the same item but in different colors, ect.  Don’t forget your coupons.   Before you stop and shop at any large retailer who might have an outlet mall store, see if you can’t find a discount coupon online first.  Outlet mall places like KB Toys, The Childrens Place, Baby Gap, The Limited Too all have been known to have discount coupons in their websites and online coupon directories.  I would recommend looking at Print.Coupons.com (click on Coupons, Inc )

Online shopping is not for everyone. While shopping online is a great way to save money on baby clothes this does not work for every consumer.  Some people like to shop in person where you can feel the clothes and experience the fabrics before you buy.  If you would rather shop locally and avoid the internet, use your local phone directory to find thrift stores.  Search for second hand stores, kids consignment shops, and outlet malls with baby stores.  All it takes is some time to get out and actually go in some of the kids clothing stores to become more familiar with them and see what kind of deals they have.  Go out and explore!  See who’s got the best clearance racks in your town.  Soon enough, you will find a few stores that allow you to get the clothes you need at price you can afford.  Remember, just because you have a baby to care for does not mean that you have to give up your frugal lifestyle.  It just means that you have to be a bit more creative.

Get hand-me-downs from other parents. Chances are pretty good you have friends with babies too.  If they have older toddlers, that’s even better!  Offer to take their old baby items and clothes in exchange for something they need or want.  Offer free baby-sitting time or maybe some help with their yardwork.  I have known several families that have worked out a clothing exchange between three different families.  They all swap things on a regular basis and it costs them nothing!  If you don’t have friends with older babies or toddlers, don’t worry.  You might be able to find parent groups, even single parent groups that are looking for the same kind of kid connection you are.  Lots of families of all sizes and situations are looking to save some money with the little ones.  Make an effort to get out and do things so you have a chance to meet other parents.  Friends are always good… especially when it comes to parenting and trying to raise kids on a budget.

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Buy Baby Clothes Online To Save Serious Money


Are you a frugal shopper? If so, and you have a baby, you know how difficult it can be to save money on clothes when you want your baby to have all the nice things and look good.  Lets all admit that it’s hard to resist those cute little denim Levi’s and those cute little Michael Jordan shoes (that cost $100 – for baby shoes! – that they won’t even walk in!)  O.K.  Luckily, there are ways to shop for nice, brand name baby clothes that will allow you to save money.  Most notably and reliable for discounts, you can rely on the internet. Ten years ago this was not an option, but in today’s day and age more parents than ever before are shopping for and buying baby clothes online.

Go Amazon! Amazon.com is a favorite hot spot for baby and kids clothes.  I’ve seen brand new baby clothing on sale for as little as .99 cents and used baby books for .22 cents!  They feature clothing products from all sorts of retail vendors and offer you huge savings!  Amazon.com is a favorite because they make your online search easy.  You can view your search results by brand name, category, and price. At sites like Amazon.com, you can find great deals like brand name baby shoes, pants, shirts, and jackets for a lot less than you would pay in any store.  Try searching by brand. Baby clothing retailers, like The Children’s Place, frequently hold online sales on Amazon.com just like they would any other store.  Right now, they have a big Spring Sale going on, offering an additional 40% off of spring items.  Now that’s a deal!  Click here for The Children’s Place 40% Off Spring Sale on Amazon.com

Want discounts on toddler shoes?  Do you know about Endless.com? Endless.com is a new discount site by Amazon.com for shoes and bags.  ..I’m thinking discounts on baby and toddler shoes!  After reviewing this site, it’s clear that this is a good place to go for quality shoes at discounted prices.  They offer FREE shipping and FREE return shipping, with a 365 day return policy. That just says, “good customer service,” all over the place.  Some great buys on Endless.com would be their snuggly snow and rain boots by Baffin.  One pair left for $17.  It looks like Endless.com has a high inventory turn-around, so they sometimes only have one or two pairs left of each product listed.  This is just another great site by Amazon.  Saving money on discount baby clothes has never been easier.

Have you heard of Ebay? Ebay is a great way to find baby clothes on the cheap, cheap, cheap!  To go along with this, it can be a lot of fun to bid on clothes and wait and see what happens.  Who knows, you may be able to get what you need for cheaper than you ever thought possible.  Many parents find that this form of shopping is not only a great way to save, but that it also results in tons of fun entertainment too!

Of course, there are many traditional e-stores that sell baby clothes on Ebay as well.  Over the years, it’s become a place to go when you need…  well, anything.  Search around before you decide to bid on one item or shop only one store. This will give you the chance to see what’s available, what each store offers, and just how much you can save.  Keep in mind though, with places like Ebay, you have to be cautious of online scammers and other challenges when buying from individuals you don’t know. But on the other hand, that’s where some of the really great buys come from, is from individuals cleaning out their baby stuff!

Craigslist, baby! A local sale site like Craigslist.com is different because… well, it’s local.  Take your pick.  Do you want to bid on your baby clothes, wait, and then pay for shipping?  Or do you want to find some deals local, swing right over, pick up, and pay today?  That’s pretty much how Craigslist works.  Simple, and some parents like that.  Craigslist has pretty much changed how we swap out the old for the new and find great deals on the way.  If you’re having a yard sale, it’s on Craigslist first.

Saving money online What’s your motivation? No matter how you choose to get your discounted baby clothes and stuff, you’re going to find some great deals out there. You may have to wait a couple days for shipping, but it’s well worth it to know that you didn’t pay retail for one thing!  Just think what your savings may end up funding instead…  the kid’s swimming lessons, piano lessons, camp, or maybe even a Disney trip!  Take a minute to think of things that your savings will go towards in order to keep you motivated to keep living frugal!

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Save Money On Baby Care Products.

Save Money On Baby Care Products.

Save Money On Baby Care Products


Save Money On Baby Care Products has never been easier. Not only is it convenient to go online and begin your search, but it can be fun too!

Do you have the cutest kid?  Baby contests and sweepstakes are becoming more and more popular now with the online community.  It’s easy and simple to upload a photo for contests like the Cutest Kid contest.  Contests like these are no joke.  They give away up to $250,000 worth of prizes every year, including Free diapers for a year, cash prizes, and a $25,000 college scholarship!  Have you thought about your baby’s 1st college fund yet?  They have.  It might be worth looking into to learn more about how to save and save big on baby care products using contests and sweepstakes like these.  Check out sites like TheCuteKid.com.

Stick to the list! One of the best ways to save on baby care products is to know exactly what you need, and then stick to your list when you arrive at the store or go online.  Automatically try to cut back on frivolous baby items that simply are not necessary.  Do you really need a baby bottle cooler/warmer?  Probably not.  Just like any trip to the store, it is easy to go over the top and over your budget.  It’s all too easy to buy every neat little item that appears in your vision, and then convince yourself that you “and the baby” need it.  No, you don’t.  And this is exactly how a typical store run turns into a $200 receipt!  Instead of falling prey to this downfall, you should never head to the store without a comprehensive list in hand, or at least an air tight mental list. If you know that you only need baby wipes and diapers you will not be tempted to look elsewhere.  …not even for baby formula, unless you know you need it, AND you have coupons!

Coupons, and where to get them! Although baby care products are expensive, you can save a lot of money with the right coupons and keeping your eye out for special offers (free stuff!).  You can find baby product coupons in the local paper, store ads, magazines, and especially online.  Keep an eye out for special offers directly from manufacturers by looking into their own company’s websites.  It is not uncommon to come across a great deal for disposable diapers and Pull Ups directly on Huggies.com, for example. Do you use baby products like baby wash, baby powder, or baby ointments?  A perfect example of hunting out the bargains on regularly used baby stuff is registering with Enfamil’s baby formula for free samples and special offers sent to your email.  Companies like these like to win you over by sending special offers like free diaper bags, free bottles, ect, as long as you don’t mind flashing their logo everywhere.

If the deal is good enough, you may want to load up when you have the chance.  Stocking up when something is on sale is always a good idea.  If you don’t always buy in bulk, consider doing so for a few select items that you will use over and over again until your baby matures a little.  Expensive items like baby diapers, wipes, and formula are all things you can get coupons for … and lots of them!   The makers of these items are all competing for your business.

Take some time to visit the manufacture’s websites like Gerber.com, Huggies.com, Pampers.com, Earth’s Best, BeechNut.com, ProctorandGamble.com, Enfamil.com, Similac.com, ect.  If there’s a specific kind of infant formula that you like, check the product packaging for the company website.  If the maker offers a coupon or special offer (free stuff), chances are pretty good they want to promote it and it’s going to be front page news on their website.  Remeber, big companies like these can’t make profits without loyal customers like you.  And they’re willing to compete for it.  Let them, and have fun saving!

Also see the article on Baby Food Coupons for lots of direct links to Get Baby Food Coupons. and Free Baby Samples.

There is no denying that having a baby is an expensive endeavor.  From the day your baby is born, you will be faced with important financial decisions.  Even though you will not be able to get by without spending any money, there are ways to save.  By knowing what you need, which products are most affordable, and then using coupons and special offers (free stuff), you will definitely be saving on that baby budget!  Just remember, before you buy anything, ask yourself, is this the best deal I can find?  Did I try to find a coupon?  Did I get it less than full retail cost?  Do I really need this product or item?  Those types of questions will keep you aiming in the right direction.  You can train yourself to shop frugal, especially when it comes to baby care products.

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Tips On Saving Money: Cloth Vs. Disposable Diapers


Most parents are very concerned about how much they will spend on diapers. And since this is one of the most costly baby items out there, there is good reason for this. You need to decide which type of diapers you are going to use, cloth or disposable. As you can imagine, both of them offer pros and cons from many different perspectives. Although it is important to keep your budget in mind, you must also remember the other details that will be affected by your choice.

As you can imagine, disposable diapers cost more than cloth ones. The reason for this is easy to understand: you will throw out a disposable diaper once it is soiled, but with a cloth diaper you will clean it for reuse at a later date.

Even though it is more cost effective to use cloth diapers the discrepancy is not as big as you may think. Remember, you have to spend money to clean and sanitize cloth diapers. This means more of an expense on household goods such as laundry detergent. This is something many people forget when comparing the cost of diapers.

Disposable diapers offer many advantages. The first thing you should know is that the cost of these diapers differs based on the brand. The well known name brands cost much more than those that are generic. To go along with this, your time is worth money as well. Even though you will spend more on disposable diapers, you will not have to spend time each day doing extra loads of laundry.

As you can see, there are monetary benefits of both cloth and disposable diapers. Which option is best in your eyes? To answer this question you may need to try both. Soon after you will get a good feel for which option is best, and how to save money as you move forward.

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