subject: Affordable Baby Furniture - Budget Baby Layettes [print this page] Obtaining what you'll need for your newborn without going broke
It is been mentioned repeatedly that babies cost a pretty penny. Although little Brad or Jennifer won't hop out of the birth canal and start demanding servants and costly electronic gadgets, they do depict some extra expenses that may be wallet-draining when considered all at one time. Fortunately the expenses don't have to be incurred all at once - even an unplanned pregnancy allots nine months to plan and gradually cope with the expenses associated with procreation.
Baby Showers
A baby shower is a time honored tradition by which expectant mothers get a bunch of free stuff from their friends and family members. Don't be afraid or embarrassed to take advantage of this situation. A decent shower can often deal with most of the immediate baby layette needs.
Buy Diapers in Advance
When is the best time to begin purchasing diapers and other such essentials? The time after conception will be perfect, but since most women do not know that they are expecting until weeks or even months later, you may have to settle for "as soon as you find out." Begin adding diapers to your usual shopping list and attempt to grab one or two packages each week. Varying between size one and two is a good notion, with perhaps a pack or two of the newborn size.
Get Help & Buy Used Whenever Possible
For large baby needs like cribs, playpens, and strollers, try and get the support of family members with these purchases. Proud grandparents to be are usually more than happy to assist with items like these. A lot of money can be saved by purchasing these items second-hand too. If a used crib, stroller, or playpen is in good condition, there is no reason not to purchase it over a new one. The only item you probably don't want to purchase used is a car seat. These items need to satisfy safety requirements and there is no way to be certain that a used one measures around current standards.
A little planning and thinking ahead is all it takes to save significant money on most of your initial and ongoing infant requirements. They real key to setting up your baby layette on a budget is to start as soon as possible.
