Parent and Baby

Outfitting a nursery can be stressful, especially if you start from scratch. Costs add up, and there is considerable variety to choose from also. Comparing prices can be tedious, but prices vary a great deal from product to product and store to store, so this task Is probably worth your effort. To find the best deals for various baby items:

• Compare prices of an item at different stores, such as a discount store, a specialty store, an outlet store, a warehouse store and a secondhand store. You may be surprised how much you can save buying from the least-expensive place compared to the most expensive!
• Check out the Internet for on-line shopping, if you have a computer.
• Try out some items for comfort of use before you buy. For example, if you’re thinking of getting a backpack or front carrier for your baby, your build can make a difference in how comfortable one is over another. It isn’t a bargain if you won’t use it.
• Keep an eye out for sales. If you are in a baby store or department, ask the sales associate if a sale is coming up soon—many are glad to tell you if items are about to go on sale.

It’s easy to spend more than $7,500 the first year on baby’s necessities and other basics (this includes setting up the nursery with crib, changing table and other items). By comparison shopping, you can bring down costs somewhat. Avoid last-minute shopping look around-your savings could be substantial.