When you first announced you were pregnant, the gifts probably started flowing in. Perfect little onesies. The cutest little sleepwear. Newborn and 0-3 month outfits that made you swoon in delight.
You had more clothes gifted to you for those early months than your baby was even able to wear before growing out of them.
But now, you’re surveying your stockpile and realizing that you probably need to start making some actual purchases. The problem is, how do you know what you need? And how do you keep from breaking the bank on those purchases?
It’s no secret that new babies can be expensive, and their clothes are perhaps one of the least talked about expenses there are. Everyone knows about the bottles and the formula, but people forget about the cost of keeping those little ones from being naked.
There are two main issues with buying baby clothes to consider. The first is that you have no idea how long your baby will be in any set size, and the second is that you find yourself wanting to buy everything!
It’s just all so adorable!
Try to temper that desire, though, and follow these tips for keeping your baby clothed and your bank account in the black:
- Consignment (second-hand) Stores: There are so many cute consignment (second-hand) stores for kids clothes these days, and the beauty is that because all babies grow out of their clothes quickly, most of what you will find will probably have only been worn a handful of times before you buy it. Shopping consignment means you’ll get like-new quality for half the price.
- Size Up: Your baby is growing fast, and those growth spurts can literally happen overnight. Your best bet? Buy clothes that are a size or two large, and then plan on rolling sleeves and leg bottoms for a little while. You’ll get much longer outfit wears if you’re willing to let your little one rock the baggy look for a few weeks.
- Know What You Need: Never go aimlessly shopping for baby clothes. If you do, you’re bound to walk out with a dozen adorable dresses in the middle of winter, or a cute themed outfit months away from Christmas. Instead, have a list and stick to it.
- Splurge on One Thing: For the most part, dressing your baby in onesies and sleep gowns is still probably going to be the easiest, most comfortable option for all. But it doesn’t hurt to have one truly precious outfit in the closet, just in case a photo-worthy event comes up. You don’t want to go overboard on clothes your baby will probably never wear, but… one occasion outfit can be worth the splurge!
Written by Leah Campbell, infertility advocate, adoptive mama, writer and editor. Find me @sifinalaska on Twitter.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general informational basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright Health & Parenting Ltd 2016. All rights reserved.
