by Emilie Carrillo

Created on: July 12, 2008

Babies are expensive; there is no doubt about that. You have probably been told, "You can never afford to have a baby."
This is true if you want to buy the top of the line things for your child, but there is no need to buy name brand things and spend a ton of money on them.
Now, there are expenses before baby comes as well. Make sure to eat well, drink lots of water and take a prenatal vitamin. These can get spendy, but go with the store brand instead of a name brand and you'll save quite a bit.

Also, the mom-to-be will need new clothes as well. Maternity clothes at maternity stores are expensive. So, go to Ross, TJMaxx, Marshalls or another close out store to find the same quality for less. Also, second hand stores will have some as well, though maybe not as wide a selection.
The first necessity you should buy before you have your baby is a car seat. These can get expensive, so check online sources for deals on free shipping, 15 percent off, etc. Never buy a second hand car seat. Safety guidelines change all the time so the newest car seats are the safest.
The second thing you'll probably need is a crib and crib mattress. Again, check online. Babycenterstore.com has summer and winter sales. But so do department stores, and most department stores have a baby section.
Now, many people look for baby bedding. This includes a quilt with matching crib bumber, ruffle, sheets and wall decorations. While this looks cute in a baby magazine, most of that is not necessary. Buy three sheets for the crib and use baby blankets that you will undoubtedly get at a baby shower.
Remember, the crib bumber has actually been proven to be unsafe for older babies, and most babies will never use the heavier blanket that comes with the set. And, if you are short on cash, you should probably spend your money on necessities rather than decoration.
You'll probably also want a carrier for baby so your hands are free when you are grocery shopping, cleaning around the house or just walking. Go to www.sleepywrap.com. They have an excellent wrap that has great reviews for under $40. This is much less than any of the big name brand wraps.
And, of course, your baby will need clothes. Do check at second hand stores for gently used clothing. Also, closeout stores where you buy maternity clothes will have baby clothes as well. Check the clearance racks for the baby clothes first. There is a great selection usually for very little money.
Department stores always have clearance racks that can be checked frequently for great deals. Get the basics first: Onesies, pants, socks, a coat or two, and long sleeved shirts.
And, of course, there is the cost of diapers. Take advantage of Internet deals. Diapers.com has sales on name brand diapers and they will deliver for free if you order more than $50. The Web site also has a clearance page with some great deals. Also, try the store brand diapers wherever you shop. You never know, they could work just great for you and your baby and save you a bundle of money at the same time.
Breastfeeding is obviously the cheapest option for feeding your baby. But, if you can't breastfeed, formula is available through health centers if you qualify for state assistance. Formula coupons also are available online.
Remember, fulfill your baby's needs first before buying things that aren't an absolute necessity. In general, clip coupons, save before the baby is born and take advantage of sales when you see them.

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