Have a shower. Chances are that one of your friends or family members is just dying to throw you one anyway! You’ll get a lot of stuff – necessities and those extras that you may want, but wouldn’t splurge on – and you can return any duplicate or unneeded items for cash, or exchange them for things you do need. All you’ll have to spend is a few dollars for thank-you notes and stamps.
Your parents, in-laws, and other relatives would probably be glad to help you by pitching in on, or paying completely for, baby things – especially the bigger-ticket items. It can’t hurt to ask, or at least shamelessly drop hints!
Take advantage of samples, freebies, and coupons. There are a plethora of websites out there that offer long lists of such things. Before leaving the hospital with your newborn, stock up on all the free stuff they have to offer – and ask for more. Many hospitals will gladly oblige; they have plenty of samples, diapers, etc.
Raising Baby doesn’t have to put you in the poorhouse. With a bit of creativity and ingenuity, you can provide your baby with everything he needs without having to cut corners. Who knows … maybe with all the money you save now, you can pay for his college education later!