Fun Ideas for Mothers-To-Be Who Want to Stretch Their Budgets
Guest Post by Emily Graham of MightyMoms.net.
Emily is mother to two daughters, cares about their future, and supports the A Caring Pregnancy Center approach.
Neither she nor ACPC received any compensation for this article.
Preparing for a birth is a thrilling experience, but it can also be a stressful one when you’re trying to watch your spending. Thankfully, there are clever strategies that allow you to celebrate every moment without straining your budget. A Caring Pregnancy Center offers some tips on how thrifty moms can enjoy this amazing journey while still watching their pennies.
Rethink the reveal
When you’re expecting a child, the markers leading up to your little one’s arrival are all cause for celebration. Ticking off days on the calendar, showers, and photo sessions are exciting placemarkers, and when it comes time for your gender reveal, you want it to be special, but that doesn’t mean it must be extravagant.
Thankfully, there are some interesting, clever, and inexpensive ideas for a unique announcement. Consider having your canine family member make the reveal for you via social media, or you can host a taco bar where guests burst a blue- or pink-filled piñata. There are ample ways to create a personalized, festive reveal without draining your budget.
The diaper dilemma
In the not-so-distant future, your life will, in part, revolve around diaper changes, and if this is your first child it will soon become evident how expensive this prospect can be. So what’s the most economical solution? Cloth or disposable? And what about the impact on the environment?
Cloth diapers seem like a good idea in some respects, but the service can be expensive. However, there are free and inexpensive ways to get cloth diapers, both in ready-made options and DIY. Consider sewing your own, or buying flour sack towels to repurpose. Another idea is to request cloth diapers as gifts, or as part of your registry.
Disposables are more convenient for moms on the go, but at the same time, they can also be expensive, especially if you’re looking for a green solution. Verywell Family found some affordable, disposable, well made eco-friendly diapers to consider, and you can often find coupons on manufacturers’ websites, or snag discounts by joining subscription services or rewards programs. It’s a compromise you might decide is worth making room for in your budget.
Purchased previously loved
Babies remain babies for only a brief period of time. As bittersweet as that is to acknowledge, there is a silver lining in knowing it’s the same for all moms, which means the second-hand market is filled with gently used goodies. You might as well take advantage!
When it comes to appropriate items to buy second-hand, look for sturdy baby gear that is well-made and that you can clean appropriately. For instance, strollers, a baby bathtub, toys, and high chairs are acceptable items to consider. Steer clear of items that could pose safety or hygiene concerns, such as used cribs, bottles, car seats, and breast pump parts.
Not sure where to find quality used things? There are several apps and websites available to help you locate the best deals.
Outfit yourself wisely
Durable baby gear isn’t the only thing it makes sense to purchase used. Along with the many changes coming your way, your body will undergo a number of transformations, so rather than investing in an extensive wardrobe, look for some used items to ease your financial outlay. LoveToKnow points out there are many opportunities to find second-hand maternity wear, such as thrift shops, yard sales, and your friends who recently had babies.
You can also search out major retailers and explore clearance racks and discount sections, and for business wear and more formal occasions, don’t rule out rental services. Keep in mind that it does pay to invest in some quality pieces that are both functional and flattering that will serve you both during and after pregnancy. This includes high-waist leggings with pockets, an airy maternity dress with nursing panels, soft tees, breathable cardigans and comfy slippers.
There is so much that goes along with having a baby, at times you can feel more than a little overwhelmed. Clever and creative ideas express your anticipation with a thrifty-yet-fun gender reveal. Along those same lines, you don’t need to break the bank on diapers, baby gear, or your wardrobe, just think outside the box for affordable solutions. You can have a great time preparing for your little one by making the most of every penny and every moment.
Need ideas on Budget Friendly Family Fun? Join our upcoming free workshop on April 21 from 3-5 p.m.
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