Babies cost a lot of money! Diapers, formula, clothes, and baby gear can take a huge chunk out of your monthly budget. The cost of childcare or reducing from two incomes to a single income can make the adjustment even more difficult. Here are some tips to cut down on spending.
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Trimming Your Baby Budget

Diapers

To save on diapers, consider switching to cloth. Modern cloth diapers are easy to use and come in cute designs. The initial cost is $10-20 per diaper, but they can be reused for years. 

If cloth diapers aren’t for you, there are still ways to save money on disposable diapers. Check manufacturer websites for high dollar coupons and combine with store sales. Generic diapers are another great way to save and they are typically comparable to name brand.

Formula

Breastfeeding isn’t always an option for families for a variety of reasons. While formula is pricey, coupons and rebates are readily available from the manufacturer. Go to the manufacturer's website and sign up for additional coupons and have friends and family do the same. You can also ask your obstetrician and pediatrician for free formula samples.

Baby gear

Car seat, stroller, high chair, bouncer, swing and more! That sure is a lot of gear for someone so small. And each item can cost $100, often more. It’s wise to buy a new car seat that meets current safety standards but all the other items can be purchased gently used and later sold again when your family no longer needs them.
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Baby clothes

Babies grow fast! It doesn’t make sense to spend a lot on several cute baby outfits when your child outgrows them only a few weeks later. Consider buying gently used clothing and/or asking friends for hand me downs. If you want new items, buy less than you think you will need because they are used for only a short time. There are some really great sites for gently used children's clothes, and more, like swap.com.

Child care

To save money on childcare, you have to get creative. Try having a family member or friend watch the baby at a lower rate, trading babysitting with another family, or alternating shifts with your partner to reduce time in child care. Some companies offer flexible spending plans to pay for child care with pre-tax money.

Tips for trimming your budget in other areas on page 2...