Follow These Strategies for Penny-Pinching Pregnancy Prep
Follow These Strategies for Penny-Pinching Pregnancy Prep
After months of trying, you’ve finally received the wonderful news: You’re pregnant! As your mind begins to shift toward the future, your excitement may quickly turn to anxiety as you unravel the seemingly endless list of to-dos that must be tackled before the due date.
Have no fear: Nine months is more than enough time to prepare for your little one. Expecting couples operating under a strict budget can even breathe a sigh of relief, as this preparation doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg.
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But first, check out these effective strategies for cutting the costs of pregnancy prep.
Gently Used
Many expecting mothers are surprised to see high prices for new maternity clothing. These costs aren’t helped by the fact that you’ll need new clothes as your belly grows. Parents don’t get a break when it comes to baby gear either, as these items can be priced high as well. Bear in mind, though, that a great many people purchase these items brand new and then sell or give them away with plenty of life left in them.
Gathering these necessities from gently used sources like eBay and thrift stores is a fantastic way to reduce your spending while still getting what you need. Maternity shirts and pants are perfectly fine when purchased used, but mothers should stay away from used underwear and other personal items. Verywell Family points out you can often rethink non-maternity clothes for your nine months, too. And don’t forget to hit up your girlfriends whose babies are already growing up! Some might be willing to give or loan you whatever you need.
Four Walls
Parents-to-be are always looking for ways to cut costs in order to bolster their savings before their newborn arrives. And with eyes towards the future, many decide that paying rent isn’t as wise as paying a mortgage, especially since you can always sell your house later on. Investopedia notes both renting and owning have their pros and cons, but it’s true that if you plan to stay in one place and are financially ready, homeownership has much to offer.
Whether you’re already a homeowner and are looking for more space or if you’re just thinking about taking the plunge for the first time, research will help you make a sound decision. Look into your local housing market to get a feel for what to expect; for instance, homes in Phoenix had a median selling price of $335K last year. Check into the school systems and their rankings, and the crime rates in the neighborhoods you’re considering. Learn about the types of loans you might qualify for. Make sure that the timing is right for your family, and that the places you’re considering are a good match for your goals.
Bulk Up
Food can end up being an unexpected expense for expecting couples. With a new life growing inside, mothers not only need to eat more calories than before, but they’ll also experience intense cravings. There’s a prevalent myth that pregnant women need to “eat for two” when, in reality, they only need to be eating roughly 250-360 more calories depending on the point in the pregnancy. When you tack on those weird cravings, you’ve got a recipe for an expensive diet with multiple grocery store trips and last-minute take-out options.
Prepping your meals and shopping in bulk are great ways to cut costs without sacrificing the calories you need or the snacks you want. Plus, now is the perfect time to prep and freeze meals for when baby arrives. Then you can have food you can easily heat up without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Ask for Samples
Many pediatricians provide expecting mothers with free samples of varying maternity items. These samples are supposed to help patients become familiar with the different brands and determine which best suits their needs. Possible samples include baby shampoo, formula, diapers, and more.
Since these freebies aren’t advertised, you’ll have to ask during an appointment. Just let your doctor know that you’re interested in trying some samples. Don’t be afraid to ask for a decent amount to stockpile for when your baby arrives.
When you follow the right strategies, pregnancy prep doesn’t have to be an expensive endeavor. You can still get everything you need without letting your bank account take a major hit.
Emily Graham
Photo Credit: Pexels
