Preparing for a new baby is a lot of work, and it can come with quite a bit of stress and anxiety; there’s so much to consider, from creating a safe and comfortable nursery to making sure you have all the clothing, diapers, and feeding accessories you’ll need. The most common worry new parents have is money, since prepping for a child can be very expensive just in terms of the things you absolutely need, without taking into account any extras. Fortunately, there are many ways you can prepare for your new baby without breaking the bank.
Being smart about the way you shop can go a long way. Whether you’re looking for nursing bras, baby clothes, or a car seat, it’s important to do a little research before making a final decision so you can get the best deal. You can also think about the best way to get the things you need via a baby shower; being strategic when you register can help you get everything your baby will require without having to spend a lot out of pocket.
Here are a few things to consider when you’re getting ready for a new baby.
Buy comfy clothing at the best prices
When you’re pregnant, one of your first priorities will likely be comfort. It’s often hard to find clothing that fits well and keeps you feeling good, but if you shop around, you can get what you need without paying a ton of money. Shop the sales and look for online coupons or promo codes that can be combined with their weekly deals. Think about soft, classic pieces that will last for several months and grow with you so you won’t have to keep rebuying items.
Think about what your post-pregnancy needs will be
Right now, you may be in nesting mode, preparing for the baby and everything he’ll need, but you also have to think about what your needs will be after the birth. Not only is it a good idea to start prepping meals you can freeze about a week before your due date, you can also look for accessories and nursing bras that will make your life easier when breastfeeding. Look for deals online, and don’t forget to check and see if you can find a deal for bundling items.
Get creative with your wish list
A baby shower can help you get everything you need, but it’s important to think hard about which items to put on your wish list and to get creative. Many guests may not be able to afford higher-end items, so it’s crucial to put several gift ideas on your registry that are varying prices. You can also ask for gift cards so you can buy anything you don’t end up with after the shower is over. Think about the details and get specific; there are several things that are go-to baby gifts -- including lotion, bath accessories, and plain onesies - -because they’re gender-neutral and are always needed. However, you don’t want to end up with 20 bottles of baby lotion! The more you can add to your registry, the less you’ll have to worry about.
Don’t go overboard in the nursery
Preparing the nursery is one of the tasks parents-to-be look forward to the most, but if you’re on a budget, it can be a source of stress. Don’t worry too much about creating the perfect, magazine-worthy room for your baby; many parents keep their newborn in a bassinet for a while after they come home anyway, so the nursery won’t even be used right away. Not only that, it should include decor and furniture that can grow with your child so you won’t have to make big changes a year down the road. Look for a crib that transforms into a toddler bed, a changing table that will become the dresser, and decor that your child can use for years to come.
Preparing for your new baby will take some time, so get started as soon as possible and remember not to stress over the small stuff. This is the time for you to relax and enjoy the process of getting things ready for this new chapter in your life and the new addition to your family.
Guest Post by Alexis Hall of SingleParent.info
Photo via Pixabay by Stocksnap