Image by Flickr User hoyasmeg
Attach, Go Green & Save on Baby Costs
There are plenty of benefits to both attachment parenting and going green, but a major perk for new parents is the money you’ll save. Co-sleeping, an attachment parenting method, means no costly crib, organic mattress or organic crib sheets. Breastfeeding can save you tons of cash on bottles, insanely expensive formula and health care (breastfed babies are usually healthier). Even if you factor in the best nursing bras and a pro breast pump, you’ll still save money by breastfeeding over formula feeding. Other green and attachment parenting ways to save money ongoing include homemade baby food, homemade green cleaners, cloth diapers and homemade reusable baby wipes. Of course, basic green practices such as turning off lights, taking shorter showers and driving less all save you money as well.
+ 7 Thrifty Ways to Save Money and the Planet
Pregnant woman shopping for a baby – Image from Shutterstock
Buy Less – Spend Less
Most Americans buy way too much useless stuff as it is. Once you’re expecting, the urge to spend money and buy useless junk can become even more intense. From cute little clothes to designer diapers to educational toys to give your baby an edge, new parents often think they need it all. In reality, you don’t. Babies need very little in terms of material goods to survive and thrive. Some diapers, a safe car seat, a basic layette, some blankets, burp cloths and a few books and toys is seriously bare minimum what you need. Plus, don’t forget, people love to give expecting parents gifts. You’ll get baby goods galore from other people, so don’t go out the second you’re pregnant and buy out Babies R Us. If you’re not sure what you need vs. what you don’t check out the following guides.
+ 10 Things You DON’T Need for Your New Baby
