I think one of the most fun parts of being a parent is the clothes shopping! You won't be able to argue with me because I know my kid is the absolute cutest, so picking out outfits for him to match with dad or me just makes my heart melt.
However, one of the things I learned the hard way is just how many clothes would never even be worn because he grows SO FAST! I had probably two dozen newborn outfits that were the start of the clothes I would gather over the first year of his life. I would blink and he'd jump two sizes.
Like many of you reading this, times have gotten tough and every dollar counts. Especially if you are a parent to more than one kiddo, each with their own needs.
I have always been a penny-pincher, as my husband would say, and I have always aspired to be on the extreme couponer show. Alas, I am not that good, but have learned a thing or two in my endeavors.
1 - Never pay full price!
This even goes for brand new items. There are people who have dedicated their careers to finding good deals and sharing them with people. I follow people like @thefreebieguy and @CouponwithKayla. They send out deals all day long!
I also love a good thrift store. I know they can be a bit overwhelming for people, so start small. You will even find brand new items and half the cost. You can find some of my favorites on the map below.
2 - Sell back your gently used or never used clothing!
The same stores where I find half-priced or deeply discounted clothes for my kiddo also buy back items. This includes baby equipment and some even take maternity items. Visit each store's page for more details.
To get the most bang for your buck, follow these tips:
1. Wash everything and lay flat in a tote bin.
2. Keep outfit sets together.
3. Don't take off any tags.
4. If one store passes on an item, try another.
5. Take store credit if you can. Most give more if you spend it in store versus cash.
Happy deal hunting!