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Baby deals
15 Ways to save for your baby
A new baby can empty your bank balance fast. Apparently the average spend is £1,560 before the baby’s born. Maternity wear, pregnancy treatments, pampering, buggies, prams, cots, toys and nursery equipment. Our baby deals, baby freebies and money saving tips with a bit of planning will help you buy all the essentials and save some pennies along the way!
1- While you are pregnant get yourself a note book and write down all the things you need to buy. i.e. cots, car seats, nursery equipment etc. We have a guide to all the baby essentials. Research the internet for prices and comparison sites for deals. Bear in mind most shops now don’t stock large items to buy or collect straight away. You have to order items which you will find come from the same warehouse, so it pays to shop around. Don’t forget to pass your note book around to friends and family. They will be more than happy to accept it and can buy you exactly what you need.
2- There are loads of companies now that offer baby clubs. Bounty packs, hipp, Cow and Gate. Sign up to all of them. You can save loads on nappies, baby food, baby wipes plus loads more. You usually get a welcome gift too. We have a list of baby clubs you can join here.
3- Visit www.entititledto.co.uk and find out if you are entitled to any benefits.
4- Watch out for bogofs. Buy one get one free are a great way to stock up on your baby essentials. If you are planning to buy disposable nappies, don’t buy too many first size nappies. Your baby could be born over 9lbs. Smaller size nappies won’t last long and you will have to throw them away.
5- When it comes to buggies, car seats and travel systems you really need to think about your lifestyle. Do you plan on taking your baby for long walks, live in a town, close to a city or are you a far distance from shops and supermarkets. A travel system could be essential or a waste of money. To save some money you could get away with a sling for a few months and then buy a stroller or pushchair.
6- Invest in a discount card, buy a familydealscard and receive great savings for your baby and family. We offer baby deals for all your baby nursery needs and more as your baby grows. For only £7.99 a year you can save loads.
7- Start to think about where you would like to invest your £250 Child Trust Fund Voucher ( £500 is you are on income support ). As soon as your baby’s born post the form and start saving for their future.
8- You can get some fantastic nearly new items from The National Childbirth Trust. Visit www.nct.org.uk they have some good deals on various nursery equipment, baby clothes, prams and cots.
9- Consider paying your household bills by direct debit at the same monthly rate and you can save at least 10% off your bills each year.
10- Join loyalty card schemes and save up your points. Build up your savings for baby products or nursery equipment. Boots offer a good nursery range and you advantage card can be used online too. Loyalty cards work if you stick to two. Anymore than that you’ll find there isn’t any real value.
11- Open a savings account and try and put something aside each month for the baby. This will help towards larger items or use it for a nest egg for the baby and invest their child benefit.
12- Have a massive clear out and get rid of items you no longer need. If it’s in good condition you should consider selling it and put the cash towards your baby.
13. Look at your finances. How much do you spend on food or going out? Plan your meals so you cook more economically rather than wasting money on processed foods. It’s healthier and better for you and your family. Shop for supermarkets own brands rather than brand products.
14. Get your friend or a family member to organise a baby shower. It’s a great way to celebrate pregnancy and the birth of your baby. Don’t forget to tell the host what baby equipment or items you need. It saves you having to ask for things directly, plus you manage to get some or all of your baby necessities.
15. Think about how energy efficient your home is. Fit a jacket for your hot water tank. Have you swapped your bulbs for longer lasting energy saving light bulbs? Save even more and have a water meter installed. You can save up to £125 a year. Visit www.uswitch.com for details.
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