Let’s talk about saving money. What’s the first thing you think of? Setting a budget? Using coupons at the grocery store? Shopping second hand? Those are all great ideas, and many people use them successfully. But there are lots of other ways to save money on things you purchase everyday!
Here are some simple ways to save you cash without feeling like you are crimping your style.
Buy Unisex
Clothing, that is. If you have young children, you know how fast they outgrow clothing. But if you buy smart, you’ll be able to use clothing over and over no matter if you have boys or girls. Many t-shirts, shorts, and jeans can be worn by both boys and girls. Buy colors and styles that can be worn by both boys and girls. Buy on sale. Don’t buy name brand. Get your money’s worth out of that clothing!
Buy Big Items Second Hand
eBay, Craigslist, and amazon.com are great places to find screamin’ deals on second hand, lightly used products. You know those products that you have to have for the first few months your child is small but then have no idea what to do with after that (things like the little vibrating chairs and swings)? Those are great second hand purchases that can be used and then resold or given to a family member or friend when you are done with them.
Cut Your Kids Hair
Okay, I’ll admit, I’m terrified to do this myself! But when my four-year-old needs a haircut (my 2-year-old twins have not yet grown enough hair to get it cut!), after tax and tip we usually spend about $20. All you need is some sharp scissors, a comb, clippers, and wet hair! I don’t know the first thing about cutting hair, but visit here for step-by-step instructions to cut chilren’s hair.
Cloth Diapers
The thought of cloth diapers send most moms running for the hills! But if you want to save money, one of the easiest ways to do it is to use cloth diapers instead of disposable ones.
You can buy two dozen cloth diapers and six covers for about $100. Cloth diaper advocates estimate that washing them yourself will cost another $450 (for detergent and utilities), but you’ll still be saving more than 50 percent compared to using disposable diapers. Another bonus: you can reuse them on your next child.
Give Handmade Gifts
Think of all the birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, and baby showers that you spend money on. Most people love receiving hand made gifts, or gifts that come from the heart.
For anniversaries, volunteer to babysit while the couple has a night out. Baby shower gifts are simple! Create a coupon book full of things you’ll do (come over while the new mom takes a much needed nap, prep a homemade dinner, etc). The new mom will definitely thank you for it!
How do you save money every month?
