7 Hidden Secrets to Save on Baby Stuff

Even the most prudent, future thinking parents who buy diapers seven months out and regularly hit the 75% off aisles at Babies R Us would agree on one thing.  When the kiddo arrives, you are willing to spend anything in the name of peace.  Whatever gadget, soother, clothing, or toy will make your baby sleep better, eat better, and think better will claim your paycheck.  You will spend ruthlessly without abandon.  Take it from a mom who's been there--print this out and take it with you to Infant Kingdom before dipping into your 401K.

1. Ask your doctor for formula samples.
Pediatricians (and some obstetricians) get formula samples by the truckload.  Especially the hospital where you deliver.  They need to give it away, so be polite and offer to help them.  I get one or two small cans of Enfamil Gentlease (retail $13.99) for free during each visit.  No, you are not a moocher, just ask for it and they'll gladly send it home with you.  For all the first year doctor visits fees you incur it's wise to take advantage of a few perks.

2. Take everything but the toilet bowl from the hospital.
If you used it, take it.  Cooling pads, the Sitz bath, diapers and wipes in the bassinets, blankets, and thermometer will be charged to you anyway, so load them up.  Most hospitals also offer good coupons for baby products you'll actually need.  My nurse sent home two kits with tons of formula placed in a bag I still use for travel.  And if you plan to breastfeed ask as many questions as you can while hospitalized--most facilities charge extra for phone call queries post discharge that your insurance may or may not cover.  

3. Kindly, but assertively, request gift receipts.
My deepest, most regretful apologies for the stupid blankets and rubber ducks I bought for friends in the past.  First born had a drawer and a half worth of blankets that she absolutely never needed.  Don't give stuffed animals as gifts unless you don't like the mom-to-be.  To make matters worse, most stores like Target and Babies R Us have strict policies that do not allow for any returns unaccompanied by a receipt.  Period.  Even if it was on your registry.  Too bad.  Walmart also has a limit of three annual transactions sans receipt per person.  It is critical that you keep a record of payment due to the sneaky new policies.

4. Buy strollers from Craigslist.
Many a parent rarely uses the behemoth travel system stroller.  As soon as Pumpkin is old enough to sit up, the umbrella stroller is so much easier.  The most worn excuse for getting the giant cruiser is for trips to the zoo.  Unless you are a weekly attendee, purchasing a gently used model (especially a jogger) will do no harm.  Browse Craigslist to see what I mean--"used twice", "never got back into running", and "prefer a light-weight stroller" are frequent comments.  

5. Don't buy infant clothes.
You will be amazed to see who emerges from your distant past to bring clothing for the new addition.  If you're having a girl, double the strength of this advice.  Aunt you-know-who can't help herself in Gymboree and pack your closet with the trediest, most adorable pieces.  If you must, buy two packs of onesies and cotton pants.  Hang dry to prevent shrinking.  I prefer Carter's basic baby clothes for durability and price.

6. Purchase generic linens.
Crib bedding can cost up to $450.  If you go all out and buy the Pottery Barn princess nursery room, be assured that you'll probably only have one girl.  It just works that way.  Instead buy one or two color design that will work for boys and girls.  Accessorize the room with gender specific themes.

7. Request a diapers and wipes shower.
This works really well for the workplace.  Ask your friends about their favorite brands (mine is definitively Pampers, everything else leaks or blows out) and include that on the invitations.  It's an easy gift to buy, no shopping or registries necessary, and it will keep you stocked up for months.  We didn't need to buy diapers or wipes until our first was over seven months old.

What seems so vital pre-baby will sit on a shelf collecting dust soon enough. That super swank swing that you knew she couldn't live without will be outgrown in four months.  So if you can't afford the "essentials" don't stress over it.