Baby Items for Free (or Nearly So)

Walk into any baby store and you may begin to feel like you need to get a second job just to buy the stuff you need for baby. As we discuss in many other posts, you don't need all that stuff. But you do need some things and you'll want some more that will make your life more convenient. I'm here to tell you that you can get almost all of your baby items for free!

1. Research the items you really need as well as the ones you really want for your baby.

2. Find them used. You can use craigslist, yard sales, free cycle, local Facebook sales groups, consignment shops, etc. Let your family members know exactly what you are looking for and tell them to keep their eyes open for a great deal on a nice condition item at a great price. I have a friend who located a $600 stroller in Miami for $100. Her mom was flying to visit her from Miami, so her mom picked it up and gate checked it on her flight.

3. Use them. Maintain them properly (wash them regularly, don't leave strollers outside in the rain, etc)

4. SELL THEM. As soon as you're done with them. You might not get exactly what you paid originally, especially if they are in worse condition, but you can usually get pretty close!

Some people get pretty sentimental about their baby items and want every baby to use the same thing.  If you plan on having children and want to store them, go for it. However, my children are 4 years apart and the market of baby items had already changed dramatically! My big swing was worth less since compact travel swings and rock and plays and the 4Moms mamaRoo was the "it" baby item. Buying used and reselling means you can use the exact items that fit your lifestyle and home RIGHT NOW rather than using something sentimental that you might not need. You can also rebut the exact item if you are patient to wait for it.