20 Clever Ways to Raise a Baby on a Budget

Before people decide to have children, the issue of money comes up — and it can freak anyone out. How will you afford it, not to mention everything that comes with it? University? Gah! But all it takes is a look around and you’ll see millions of families out there, which can be somewhat comforting because if they can do it, you can AND that it really can be done without going bankrupt. All it takes is a little work and creativity and you can save a lot of money.

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Use cloth diapers

You're going to be doing loads of laundry anyway but after the initial investment, the savings work itself out.

See more: 20 ways to save $1,000 a month.

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Make your own wipes

You go through them quickly so why not make your own? All you need can be found at your local drugstore or, if you're lucky, maybe the stuff is already in your home.

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Breastfeed, if possible

This is in no ways a boob or bottle issue; you do what you need to do. But formula can definitely add up so if you can, breastfeeding is the most inexpensive way to feed your baby. But, again, no pressure.

Grocery cart full of fruits and vegetables

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Make your own baby food

Thanks to your Magic Bullet and freezer, the produce department of your grocery store will become your new favourite place.

RELATED: 12 brilliant money-saving leftover hacks.

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Bassinet over bedroom

Don't rush to have the nursery all set up in time for baby to come home. Keep your little one in a bassinet in your room for the first few months and it'll buy you precious time to save on setting up their room.

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Nursery numbers

You don't have to spend a fortune so keep a budget in mind when setting up the room. As long as it's a welcoming sanctuary; that's all that matters.

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Ask for freebies

Your child's doctor usually has loads of things to pass along, not to mention companies who want to lure new parents to buy their stuff down the road.

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Buy products that grow with baby

From cribs that transform into big-kid beds to car seats that convert to boosters, it makes the high price tag well worth it.

You might also like: 25 kid's products celebrity moms totally swear by.

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Cut coupons

From diapers and formula, to wipes and clothes, coupons will save you a ton.

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Price match

Shop at stores that price match, everything from baby products to produce. You might annoy the people behind you in line but your bank account will thank you.

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Keep baby’s products simple

Forego any special or trendy items when simple, natural things like aloe, coconut oil and unscented lotions do the trick — for less.

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Buy gently used clothing

What's the point in buying brand-spankin'-new duds when they're going to spit up on them, not to mention outgrow them in rapid speed. Once Upon a Child or Mom-to-Mom groups will replace the mall in no time. A better option? Take all the hand-me-downs you can get your hands on.

See more: 20 unusual baby names.

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Skip the shoes

What's the point? They don't need them until they're walking.

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Stop buying bibs

Instead, just use shirts that are a couple sizes bigger than your child. They can be washed easier and when they fit, they can be used for messy play later on.

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Shop at discount stores

If you need new items, places like Walmart, Joe Fresh and Dollarama can hook you up for a fraction off the prices of those specialty stores celebs shop at.

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Borrow things you’ll only need temporarily

From a baby bath to a Bumbo to a breast pump, don't buy the things you won't need for long; borrow from a friend or family member instead.

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Make your own wrap

Instead of a pricey baby carrier or wrap, there are ways to do it yourself — even if you don't know how to sew.

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Ask family and friends to babysit

Instead of relying on a trusty teen or reliable sitter, find a loved one who will happily take your babe off your hands. For free.

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Trade babysitting time

If family and friends aren't an option, find other newbie parents who might be willing to go tit for tat. They watch your little one while you enjoy some adult time; then you return the favour by watching theirs.

Some other ways to save are to buy certain items, like these back to school supplies, at the dollar store.