Those first-year essentials really do add up.
Probably not as good as youd like.
It always seems like an uphill battle to build (and keep) a decent amount in savings.
But what if your car breaks down, or you have a sudden medical bill?
In total,I spent $310 thrifting my way on must-haves for baby No.
2 pennies in the bucket compared to the $1,122 I couldve spent buying everything at full price.
Its European design caught my eye, but I balked at its hefty retail price.
A few weeks into my highchair hunt, I stumbled across a nearby Craigslist post asking $200.
The price felt a bit steep but this was one I was willing to splurge on.
I offered $160 but the seller wouldnt go lower than $190 so I begrudgingly walked away.
Fortunately, the key to a good deal is patience.
Thats a savings of $200.
I found a gently-used version selling for $60 on Facebook Marketplace.
Plus the listing included the Googly Eye Toy Bar attachment.
My $40 offer was accepted.
It never hurts to try for a better deal than whats being offered!
I purchased this item for $10 on Facebook Marketplace.
No stains, no tears, and in excellent working condition.
Thats a savings of roughly $70.
Talk about a bargain!
I found a like-new tub for $15 on Facebook Marketplace, but my $10 offer was accepted.
It never hurts to ask for a better price.
It also keeps in line with my goal of staying plastic-free/no BPA products.
Between constant feedings and changes, having a bassinet by our bedside is a must.
I first went to buy this item in like-new condition for $200 on Facebook Marketplace.
At $150 off the retail price, it was a good deal but not agreatdeal.
That evening, I found another seller asking $80.
For anyone keeping track, a few extra searches saved me $289.
At the Buy Buy Baby I visited, the return section was right up front.
While these sections vary from store-to-store, check with a retail associate to find out exactly where its located.
Mercari sent me a return shipping label and promptly refunded my money.
Theres no getting around it: Preparing for a new baby isnt cheap.
Rachel Murphy is a former online grid TV news producer turned freelance writer.
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