Babies on a Budget: Practical Parenting

Utilise your local library. Libraries are a treasure trove for young and old alike. You can borrow books, DVDs, CDs, home education kits, an Internet connection and sometimes toys.

Investing in good quality food containers and bedding will cost more in the short term but will pay for themselves over and over again, outlasting cheaper alternatives.

Walk wherever you can, whenever you can. More than just a money-saver, you’ll enjoy a healthier lifestyle and the kids will sleep better ;)

Do a babysitting swap with another family.

Barter with other parents for services. If you have a mother-friend who is a hairdresser, perhaps she could cut your children’s hair in exchange for some fresh baking or babyistting hours.

Before you throw something away, take a second look. Can it be reused? Upcycled? Put to use in another capacity?

Spot clean clothes that aren’t dirty enough to be washed.

Have a swap party for clothing and toys that your children have grown out of.

Turn all your appliances off at the wall when not in use. And only boil the kettle with as much water as you need, rather than full. If you only need enough for one cuppa, there’s no point boiling 6 cups worth, the other 5 of which will just go cold.

Stainless steel is rather an expensive little luxury, but will last YEARS when plastic will break and stain and stink. Whenever you can purchase stainless steel food storage, we highly recommend it. The outlay is a bit more (just like with your reusable snack bags and reusable nappies) but it lasts.