Added expenses came as no surprise when you had a baby, but current economic conditions may be creating more pressure than you planned for. Tighten your belt without compromising your baby's health and well-being with these simple tips:
Ask your pediatrician for samples and coupons. Don't be shy; ask for samples of prescription medications as well as nursery items such as diaper ointment, baby powder and lotion.
Borrow a breast pump. Electric pumps are pricey, so ask friends and family members for a loaner. It's safe; just buy your own starter kit of plastic attachments that shouldn't be shared.
Call your pediatrician or a free nurse hotline. For minor illnesses and health questions, a quick phone call might save you a costly emergency room or clinic visit.
Wait to buy baby clothes until he needs them. It's fun to shop in advance, but growth spurts can make it difficult to predict what size your baby will be in a few months' time.
Go for booties instead of shoes. Until he's walking, inexpensive booties are fine for keeping your baby's feet warm when you take him outside. Plus, he'll learn to walk faster when he's barefoot in the house.
Be practical on special occasions. Check out consignment shops or ask friends and family for hand-me-downs when your baby needs a Halloween costume, holiday ensemble or other item he'll only wear once or twice.
Return unwanted items right away. If you bought the wrong size or got a gift you can't use, take it back as soon as possible in case the store has a time limit on returns and exchanges.
Set up a free photo website. That way, you can post baby pictures and let your friends and family buy the copies they want.
Buy in bulk. You can sometimes save big when you buy large quantities of diapers and wipes at a wholesale club or warehouse store.
Go to the library. Many libraries have children's sections where you can check out storybooks and videos for free. Some also have free storytelling, parenting classes and other activities.
Make your own baby food. It's easy to mash a ripe banana or puree steamed vegetables.
Take it easy on toys. Most babies don't need fancy or high-tech toys for stimulation; he'll probably be just as happy with a pot lid and a wooden spoon or a set of big plastic keys.