Having a new baby is tough enough without thinking about spreading costs. Baby essentials are crucial, and if you have one, two, or more on the way (we don’t judge), this guide combined with a minimalist approach to baby gear can save your budget and maybe even put some cash back in your pocket!
1. Create a Baby Registry
A baby registry is one of the first things you should set up when you are expecting a newborn. This can be done within a single store or at various retailers using a universal registry. Not only does this simplify the process for friends and family to purchase gifts for you, but many stores offer incentives if your registry is with them.
For example, certain merchants may offer a free welcome box with samples and coupons as a thank you for registering. Some also provide completion discounts that let you buy items left on your registry at a discount. So where you register can help you get more stuff for free or at a discount.
Freebies Baby Registries:
- Amazon Baby Registry
- Buy Buy Baby Registry
- Target Baby Registry
- Walmart Baby Registry
And you can work with a universal registry, enabling you to choose goods from any store, allowing you to even shop local.
2. Ask Friends and Family
You can find some of the best free baby resources by turning to someone who has already been there. Many people keep their baby gear long after their kids have outgrown it in anticipation of just the right person to give it to. Don’t hesitate to ask friends and family if they have any baby stuff that you can use.
You might be fortunate enough to find someone who is offering a stroller, crib, and baby attire for nothing. But you want to make sure all hand-me-downs or even stuff stored in your home are still safe. Is it a model with recalls, or are there items that no longer meet current safety regulations?
3. Sign Up for Free Diapers with Rewards
Ever wonder how to get free diapers? Diapers are one of the biggest expenses new parents face, but did you know there’s a way to get some for free? Several diaper manufacturers provide free samples when you sign up for their newsletter or rewards program.
Some brands, like Huggies, have rewards programs that allow you to earn points by buying their products. You can redeem these points for free diapers, gift cards, and more baby supplies. Pampers Club also rewards points that you can use to get baby outfits, toys, or even books.
Although these programs require sharing personal information, they will help you save money on diapers, especially in the beginning.
4. Request Free Formula Samples
Formula is another significant expense, but many formula companies want you to try their products, so they often provide free samples or even a full-sized bottle when you sign up on their website.
Large brands like Enfamil and Similac often offer free samples online. Alternatively, you can ask your pediatrician or the hospital where you deliver if they have any samples to give. You may also qualify for free formula through WIC (Women, Infants, and Children).
Don’t be afraid to reach out directly to formula companies. Some will send you samples for free, and others might even include coupons to lower costs in the future.
5. Get Free Baby Product Samples
You can get many baby products for free by signing up to receive samples online, from medicine packages to diaper rash cream and baby wipes. Many companies provide free samples to encourage you to try their products, and this is an excellent way to experiment with new brands at no cost.
Often, you can find free sample offers on company websites, baby forums, and even social media sites. You can also ask your baby’s pediatrician if they have any samples available, especially for products you’re already using that the doctor recommends.
In cases like these, free samples can be extremely beneficial.
6. Hunt for Baby Product Coupons
Coupons can be a new parent’s best friend, especially when you can score items for free or at a steep discount. Many online baby shops and even some brick-and-mortar stores provide coupon codes you can use to get free baby items or discounts.
Periodically check baby store websites or manufacturer sites for current promos and sales. Some shops also provide gift cards with purchases, which can be used to get completely free baby items.
Apps like iBotta and Checkout51 work well too. Their cash-back offers and baby product coupons can help you save big, offering great deals from multiple stores.
7. Explore Online Marketplaces
Waiting around for a yard sale to score free baby gear in your local community is no longer necessary. Online marketplaces like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace allow you to find free baby items in your area.
On Facebook Marketplace, use the filter “Only Show Free Listings” to see all free baby items being given away nearby. Freecycle is another platform where people give away items (often just to make room).
These sites are great for finding free baby gear, but safety should always come first. Consider the condition and safety of items, especially large ones like car seats or cribs, as any damage can compromise their safety.
8. Get a Friend to Host a Baby Shower
Baby showers are a great tradition to celebrate your new arrival with friends and family, ensuring you have all the baby gear you need. If no one has offered to host a baby shower for you, politely ask someone close to you if they might be willing.
Baby showers are more than just about receiving gifts; they’re a time to create memories. When preparing your registry for the shower, make sure to include items from all price ranges so everyone can find something within their budget.
9. Shop at Garage Sales
Garage sales are a great way to get baby supplies on the cheap. Sometimes, people will give you things for practically nothing, especially if you visit late in the day when sellers are trying to clear out their stock.
At yard sales, look for bins or boxes labeled “free.” If you don’t see any, it doesn’t hurt to ask if they have any leftover baby items that didn’t sell. Many parents are happy to see their old baby gear go to someone who needs it.
Be sure that any items you bring home are safe and in good repair. Before using any secondhand baby products, check the latest safety standards and recalls.
10. Host a Baby Stuff Swap
A baby swap is a fun and social way to exchange baby items you no longer need with others. Hosting a swap with friends, family, or fellow parents in the neighborhood is an easy and free way to pass along baby clothes, toys, and gear.
While swaps are great for getting free baby items, they’re also an excellent opportunity to meet other new parents in your community. To run a swap, gather some parents, pick a location, and start swapping!
If you’re swapping items, ensure that all products meet current safety standards. Make sure to communicate this expectation to everyone involved for a positive experience all around.
Conclusion
Whichever way you look at it, having a baby is going to require a significant financial outlay. Finding ways to save money while raising your child can be a lifesaver, helping to reduce financial stress. Whether it’s through a baby registry, an online marketplace, or simply asking your network, free baby gear is out there waiting for you!
As always, prioritize safety, especially when accepting secondhand items. With a little effort, you can build a collection of baby essentials that costs far less than you might expect.
