BY: Melissa Schraiber

 

 

From diapers to clothes to toys, raising children requires more than tender, loving care. Their expenses are numerous and ways to save, it seems, are few. By utilizing a few simple strategies when purchasing the goods children need, money and time can be saved in a convenient and easy manner.

 

Saving on Diapers

Diapers.com is a wonderful resource for purchasing diapers at a fraction of the retail cost. They regularly offer coupon codes for a percentage off the purchase amount or coupon codes for free shipping. They also participate in cash back sites like Fatwallet.com. By visiting Fatwallet first, you will save a portion of your diaper purchase in the form of cash back.

Saving on Formula

Formula can take a huge chunk out of any family's operating budget as many canisters are upwards of $20. Take into account that most children go through a canister a week for the first year of life and you're looking at a major expense. Most people assume that there are no deals to be had on purchasing formula, but that simply is not true. Formula coupons for name-brands are readily available in your weekly newspaper inserts. For even more savings, consider switching to a store brand formula as many of them are identical to pricey name-brands.

Saving on Clothing

As babies develop into children, they grow their way through an enormous amount of clothing. There are several ways to trim the amount you spend on children's clothing while still allowing them to be fashionable and presentable. Consider purchasing clothing at a consignment sale. Since children grow so quickly, most items are gently used and barely worn. Consignment sale clothing is often priced at 75 percent off retail. If there is not a consignment sale in your area, thredup.com is a swapping site for moms who want quality items without the hefty price tag. If you list a box of clothing and someone chooses it, you are able to pick a box. As long as you continue the cycle of listing and picking items, the only cost to you is shipping.

Saving on Toys

For the best deals on toys, it is best to plan ahead. Instead of waiting until the last minute for a Christmas or Birthday gift, strategically purchase items before you need them. Major retailers like Target and Wal-Mart deeply discount their toys twice a year; at the end of the summer and at the beginning of the year. These are new, undamaged and unused toys that need to be sold in order to make way for Christmas merchandise. At a markdown of 75 percent, toys for Christmas, Birthdays or just because can be affordable on any budget with a little prior planning. Regardless of how many children you have or where you live, money can be saved on everything from diapers to formula. By practicing savvy shopping methods, you will be able to spend less time going from store to store in search of the best deals and more time enjoying your children.