Obviously, breastfeeding is a big money-saver. The cost of a year’s worth of formula can range from $600 to $1200, not to mention what you’ll spend on bottles and their accessories. There are other major advantages to breastfeeding as well: kids who are breastfed are better protected from SIDS, are ill much less often (also a money-saver when it comes to paying for doctor visits!), have less chance of developing allergies, asthma, and tooth decay, are less likely to be obese, and do better in school. There are also benefits for moms too: breastfeeding mothers lose baby weight more quickly, and have better protection against postpartum anemia and even some types of cancer. There are a few “start-up costs” associated with breastfeeding, such as nursing bras, absorbent pads, and breast pumps and bottles, but none of these are absolutely necessary, and even if you buy them all they’ll only cost you $200 - $300. If you nurse exclusively for a year or so, you can skip the bottle stage and teach your baby to drink from a cup, thereby eliminating the expense of buying bottles and nipples.
When your baby is older, you can save some cash by making your own baby food. Commercially prepared baby food is up to three times more expensive than homemade! You can make baby food from either canned or fresh vegetables; if you buy canned, make sure it’s the salt-free variety. It’s simple, quick, and cheap.
If you use canned vegetables, drain most of the juice, saving a little bit in the bottom of the can. Dump everything into a blender or food processor and puree until it’s smooth.
If you use fresh vegetables, cook them in plain water and then use the same method you’d use for canned veggies.
For older babies, you can introduce meat by pureeing a piece of meat with a bit of sodium-free broth.
You’ll need to cook harder fruits, such as apples, but most varieties you can just puree with a little juice or water to achieve a smooth consistency.
Once the food item is pureed, pour it into an ice cube tray and freeze; when it’s time for Baby to eat, just pop out a couple of cubes and microwave them until they’re thawed.
If you buy five cans of vegetables, you could potentially get about thirty meals out of them (depending on how much your baby eats.) That’s stretching five cans of veggies a long way – and saving money!
Speaking of mealtimes, a high chair isn’t an absolute necessity. You can use a baby swing, a walker, or a stroller or simply hold the baby on your lap while feeding. If you feel you need a high chair, you can always find a bargain on a good used one. And don’t worry about buying special dishes for your baby … he’ll be just as happy eating off an adult plate.