If you’re a first-time parent, ensuring you’ve bought the right pregnancy and baby items can be an expensive, overwhelming minefield. Many products, such as vitamins and supplements, have a ‘pregnancy’ range that hikes the prices up, but still offers the same benefits as a normal vitamin package. From nappies and new clothes to healthcare perks, we’ve explored the possibilities for cutting costs so you can save money during pregnancy and beyond.
1. Get freebies and discounts
If you’re savings-savvy enough, you can enjoy everything from free trips to the cinema to recycled toys and books. Use websites such as Facebook Marketplace and Freecycle for helpful hand-me-downs, and check with your local cinema whether the little one can sit for free on your lap. Some supermarkets, such as Asda and Boots, also provide parent & baby points clubs that offer exclusive discounts and loyalty reward schemes tailored to new parents.
2. Don’t stock up before you know the baby’s preferences
While it’s a natural instinct to over-prepare for your new arrival, especially if you’re first-time parents, you might want to avoid spending too much money on items such as formula and food before your baby has tried them. You might find yourself throwing expensive items away due to an intolerance or upset tummy, so try not to stock up too much where possible.
3. Think carefully about nappies
Nappies are one of the biggest expenses for new parents, which is why they require some careful consideration before you invest. Opting for eco-friendly reusable nappies is a great option for saving both cash and the planet, with lightly soiled nappies fine for washing at 60 degrees.
Things have moved on significantly since the age of towels and pins, with reusable nappies now functioning in a similar way to disposables. Some councils even offer packages of free reusable nappies, so it’s worth checking if this is something your local authority has on offer.
If you’d still rather opt for the ease of disposable nappies, make sure you compare prices, take advantage of free samples and bulk buy whenever there is a good offer.
4. Babies aren’t concerned with price tags
From expensive gifts through to designer clothes, the reality is that your baby doesn’t have a clue. Parents often find that babies are more impressed by the box that a gift arrives in, rather than the expensive toy itself. In a similar vein, babies aren’t going to care if they have just thrown up on their designer dress. Ultimately, the comfort and breathability of the clothes should take priority over everything else.
5. Don’t fall for costly gimmicks
Many businesses capitalise on the ‘pregnancy’ label, applying it to a range of products, such as vitamins, haircare, and skincare. Rather than paying a premium for the same product, you could simply check the ingredients and run them by your doctor if you’re unsure, in order to save money.
6. Check what benefits you might be entitled to
When it comes to saving for a baby in the UK, there are a range of benefits available, providing valuable financial help during pregnancy and beyond. The Healthy Start Scheme from the NHS helps expectant or new mothers afford the essentials, and the Tax-Free Childcare Scheme from the government is designed to help with childcare costs. With other benefits available, including Maternity Grants and Child Benefits, it’s worth your time to check if you’re eligible.
7. Healthcare perks for new mothers
Taking care of yourself is crucial after bringing a new life into the world. If you are currently pregnant or have given birth in the last 12 months, you are entitled to free NHS dental treatment, and you may even be able to get free eye tests, depending on where you live.
