Saving Money on Baby Clothes
Depending upon your personal level of frugality, there are many ways to save money on clothing your baby. Some, obviously, will save you more than others, but they all have their merits. These methods are listed in order of potential savings with the most expensive at the top and the most frugal at the bottom. If you are new to the frugal life and are a bit hesitant to jump in with both feet, start at the top of the list and work your way down. First, though, let’s look at the cost of clothing your baby, along side the potential savings that frugality can provide:
Infant Clothing
| The Cost | Frugal Makeover |
| The cost to clothe your baby can vary greatly depending on a number of factors. According to the USDA, the average annual cost of clothing a child is about $600. Depending upon how you shop, your actual total could be much more or much less. Here is an example:
At an online children’s clothing boutique, I found an absolutely adorable blue cardigan sweater for a baby boy. The cost? $54. Plus $6 for shipping. Ouch. At this rate, I would far exceed the $600 per year average! |
Combining some of the frugal strategies mentioned below, I found a comparable sweater for a much lower price.
First, I skipped the boutique and looked instead at The Children’s Place. At their website, I went directly to the sale page. That is where I found an equally adorable sweater for the rock-bottom price of just $10. But wait, there’s more. I used a click-through coupon in a promotional email from The Children’s Place to save 25% on any one item. Finally, I found a coupon code that entitled me to free shipping. When all was said and done, I spent $7.50. At this rate, I should come in at well under $600 over the course of the year. |
Shop at Discount Stores
This may be an obvious suggestion but for some people, it is a giant leap toward frugality. If you typically buy your baby’s clothing at children’s boutiques or even at regular retail stores like Baby Gap or Macy’s, you are spending a lot of money on clothing. By shopping at discount stores like Walmart, Target, or even Family Dollar, you can save a considerable amount of money.
Shop at End of Season Sales
Most stores begin marking down their merchandise as the season draws to a close. By the very end of the season, clothes may be reduced by 75% or more. Since babies wear sizes that correspond with their age, you can usually shop in advance for your baby’s clothes.
Use Coupons
True, clothing retailers don’t routinely distribute coupons for their products. But many stores offer coupons for any purchases made in their establishments. And (this is my favorite frugal rule of thumb) ALWAYS look for coupon codes before purchasing an item online. There are amazing deals to be found.
Buy Used
You may feel a little squeamish about this one. Some people just don’t like the idea of putting their baby in other people’s clothing. But before you disregard this idea completely, just browse through a second hand store or spend a few minutes on Ebay. You may be pleasantly surprised to find that many items are new or nearly new. Click here for an in-depth look at second-hand clothing.
Get it for Free
Yep, that’s what I said. Free. Clothing swaps, online groups such as Freecycle, and other parents are all great sources of free clothing. Also, by combining other strategies such as coupons and sales, it is sometimes possible to get items for free or nearly free. Click here for more ideas on getting something for nothing.
