Budgeting Baby - How To Cut Down On Expenses For Your New Baby

By Caroline Miller

Let's face it. Babies are expensive. Nobody likes to think of them that way, but as much as we'd like to believe that all babies need is for someone to play peek-a-boo with and make gurgling sounds, we all know it's not true. Infant formula, bottles, sterilizers, diapers, baby food, doctor's bills, strollers, carriers...the list is seemingly endless. So how do you raise your bundle of joy without owing the national debt by the time she's ready to fly the nest? Simple, you budget. You scrimp and cut corners (but not quality) so you can keep aside money for when it's really important - higher education, college etc.

Your best money saving exercise will come before the baby's born - at your baby shower. No matter who's throwing the shower, you'll undoubtedly receive loads of baby gifts, and baby shower gifts. From diaper genies, to breast pumps, you can expect a range of goodies to fall in your lap. Some guests might also choose a baby gift basket that contains all necessities for baby during the first few days of his life. Talcum powder, soaps, baby creams, and lotions, and baby towels - a gift basket will normally contain these essentials, plus a whole lot of other goodies depending on the size of the basket.

You can always ask your close friends, parents and sisters for specific baby shower gifts that you want for the baby. For instance, a safe crib or an expensive stroller that'll put a dent in your budget can easily be bought by individual family members or friends, or by a group pooling in enough money for the purchase. Once the shower is over, remember to keep these in a safe place so you can find them easily when you need them.

Other ways you can scrimp include the absolute must haves like diapers. You don't need expensive brand names - all diapers essentially perform the same functions. If you find diapers on discount, remember to buy a few in varying sizes, increasing as they go along. Look into cloth diapers - you won't just save money, but also do your bit for the environment.

If you are able to, breastfeed your baby - it's completely free, hygienic, safe convenient, and it's good for baby.

Make your own baby food. It's not only more nutritious, but cheap to boot. All you need is a blender that you use to blend strawberries, peaches, carrots, oats and bananas. If you're working and pressed for time, you can freeze these pureed foods in ice cube trays, and microwave them in a jiffy during feed time.

Don't go wild buying all kinds of fancy toys. Choose a few that are age appropriate and will help him develop his motor skills, and give the rest a miss. Babies can be just as content with a bowl and spoon to make noise in.