Having a baby is expensive. Here’s how to cut the cost
In association with Capital One.
LAST year, it was reported that the average cost of raising a child to the age of 21 had leapt up to a staggering £230,000. That's pretty much the price of the average house in the UK.
So, we want to help you rack up those savings as early as possible. A new baby is expensive - they need so much stuff - but there are loads of ways to shave off the pennies you probably never considered.
Batch cook and freeze
If you're a whizz in the kitchen, make up several portions of baby food at a time and then freeze it in individual portions. Baby food can be super expensive and can have you running to and from the super market more often than you'd like. Plus, when you make you're own you can be 100 per cent sure what's going in it.
Buy unisex baby-grows
By buying unisex clothes for your baby you're allowing yourself to re-use them for any future siblings.
Find the freebies
Loads of local health centres give out freebies to new mums and babies. From nappies to wipes, there's a lot out there to be had for nothing, so do your research.
Make your own mobile
Unsurprisingly, accessories are just as expensive for baby rooms as they are for adult rooms, so why not test your creativity and make your own. Pinterest is full of easy to follow ideas, so give it a go. It'll feel more sentimental too, and your child will be able to hand this one of a kind piece down to their children.
Join an online group
Parenting groups like Mumsnet, or on Facebook are not only a great way to meet other parents but they're also a great place to get your hands on free or cheap essentials.
Having a baby is one of life's joys. Planning and sensibly cutting corners will ensure you'll be able to enjoy bringing up your family without worrying too much about money.