Very few new parents are prepared for the costs of having their first child. There are so many items you need to raise you baby, and many of the less obvious items are not considered until the time comes. It is for this reason new parents need to be prepared to budget beyond the amount they think it will cost upon the arrival of their first baby.

While it is always a wonderful feeling to have your own, brand new baby accessories, sometimes the costs associates are just not worth it. This is especially the case if you think you may only be having one child. Retailers are very aware of the neccessity of baby furniture and for this reason, they know regardless of if they hike up the prices of their products, new parents are going to buy these products. However, so many new parents cannot afford the cost of brand new baby accessories. This is where second hand becomes a blessing in disguise.

Buying second hand baby accessories is not for everyone, however for many it is the only option. You can purchase second hand assessories from almost everywhere, in a huge range of colours, shapes and sizes. Many of these items have barely even been used, handed across from other recent parents who have watched their own child grow beyond the baby stage. Of course there are certain items that are much preferable in brand new, such as baby baths, pottys and other less hygenic items, however the rest are as good as new with a simple wipe down.

Also bare in mind if you have friends who have recently had a child, they may be ready to part with some of their items. This is especially common for hand me downs like clothes, because lets face it, babies do not stay tiny for long. Saving money on clothes can be a fantastic money saver if you have friends ready to part with their no longer needed clothing items. They may also be ready to part with bigger items, such as cots, change tables and prams, depending on the stage of their own family.

Never underestimate the benefit of a baby shower prior to giving birth to your first baby. A baby shower is a fantastic way to get many of the items you would normally have purchased yourself. And most people are quite willingly to buy a gift based on your wish list. Many mothers skip the baby shower due to having too much else to worry about, but the gifts you receive can be a huge money saver.

When it comes to items such as clothes, nappies, blankets and all other linen items, discount department stores are far more practical than the pricer outlets for baby items. A baby does not need these items for long, since after birth they are growing far more rapid than they will at any other stage in their life, therefore getting yourself budget romper suits, singlets and nappies is a great way to save cash.

There are many ways for new parents to save money if you are willing to let your friends, family and the benefit of second hand assist you in your task.

Learn more about this author, Holly Rogers.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

---

Add your voice

Know something about Money-saving tips for new parents?
We want to hear your view. Write now!