If you’re having a baby soon, there’s a high chance you have conflicting feelings. If having a child is one of your dreams, then you must be anticipating the birth of your own. On the other hand, there’s the cold reality that it takes a lot of money to have a baby and raise them for the next eighteen years or so.

Babies grow up fast, and when you’re taking care of one, you’ll soon learn that the months will whiz by. All the cute baby stuff you have hoarded for months can no longer be used. Parenting is a tough and expensive job, and while it’s nice to shop until you drop for baby things, it’s advised to reflect on how your money is spent.

Cutting expenses doesn’t mean deprivation of necessities. It can also mean buying baby essentials that aren’t brand-new. Here are some things you can buy used for your baby and some safety tips for your peace of mind.

Clothes and Accessories

Parents with more than one child have gently used clothing and accessories, including shoes, hats, and coats, from their older children, so they often reuse those items because it’s practical. Baby showers are also a great source of new clothes for expectant mothers, but not everyone has the opportunity to have one.

First-time parents who are interested in used things can go to consignment stores or shop online for preowned baby clothes. Babies grow rapidly, so why buy them something new and pricey when they will outgrow them in a few weeks? It’s a waste of money and a hassle to get rid of later.

Baby Gear

Baby rockers and swings are expensive if bought new, and babies will only use them for a few months. You can easily find secondhand baby gear in local mum groups in your area for a discount. If that option is not possible, you can even rent the rocker for a certain duration or borrow from your mum friends.

Bathtubs/Mats

Newborns will stay the way they are for only a little while, and inexperienced mothers will quickly learn how to bathe them without using bathtubs and mats pretty soon. You can ask around if anyone’s planning to get rid of theirs and if you can take those for free or buy it secondhand. Ensure to check them out first for mould and mildew before taking it. You can also clean and sanitise the items yourself if you’re willing.

High Chair

Not all high chairs are made the same. There were several product recalls from the US Consumer Product Safety Commission a few years back due to injury risks. Whether you’re borrowing or buying secondhand, check safety protocols for high chairs, and always have someone in the room if the baby is in it.

Toys

Toys are one of the easiest things to overbuy for kids. There is a broad scope for age-appropriate toys, and some playthings are better for toddlers than for infants. Just like clothes, toys are easily outgrown by babies. If you can source used toys, make sure to check them first for cleanliness, missing pieces, and sharp corners. You can also wash and sanitise them before giving them to your child.

Safety Tips for Buying Used Baby Essentials

The internet is an amazing invention, and there are so many things you can accomplish with it, including shopping for used baby things. There are many sources to find these things online and locally, but before making a purchase, remember these safety tips:

1. Ask for the model number, and go to this website to check if it has been recalled.
2. Inquire about the product’s history (when it was made, how long ago it was used, etc.).
3. Check if all the parts are intact and in good working condition

Have you tried borrowing or buying used items? Share your experiences in the comments below.

Related posts:

Taking care of your baby’s skin: 6 dermatologist-approved tips How to prepare for a baby: 6 tips for first-time parents Thoughtful Gift Ideas for a Baby Shower Tips to start a baby clothes business