[MommiNikki]

Whether you’re just thinking about having a baby or if you already have a baby on the way, it’s never too early to start making a “baby budget.” It’s not cheap to have a baby these days – and there are more expenses than you might realize – but if you plan ahead, you can make smart budget choices for your baby and your family.

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[MommiNikki]

Though I agree with the article and having a nice amount saved for the "initial hit" of baby items and things to come. It certainly isn't and doesn't have to be THAT expensive unless you OPT for it to be. I compiled an ACTUAL list of TRUE costs from stores like Walmart, and Target of the most needed-initial needs to take baby up to 2/3 months and it totaled $675.00-$750.00 and yep... it included California State Tax.

Depending on ones taste, and yes, one of the "needs" I included a swing. Of course after baby is home, you may have to budget an additional $200-$250.00 per month on ongoing baby needs which technically speaking are their formula(foods), basic clothing in bigger sizes, diapers. Eveyrthing else is luxury and extra.. not a "NEED"... Check the list out... A mix of Target and Wal*mart items

Evenflo Aura Stroller/Car seat 136.54
Delta Bassinet- 79.50
Bright Start Swing- 51.54
Playtex Wide Vent-Aire Bottles 25.99
AVENT 9 oz. bottles- 15.99
NUK Orthodontic Pacifiers (8 pack) 15.99
Onesies (5-pk-white) 8.99ea. (X3) 26.97
21-pieces Garanimals Layette- 35.00
Gerber Sleep n’ Play (3 pk.) 9.96 (X2)-19.92
Circo receiving blankets- 4 pk. 6.99 ea (X2) 13.98
Circo Towel (3pk) 12.99
Johnson’s baby bath set + Desitin- 26.00
Diaper Bag - Limit of 30.00
Diapers- LUVS Premium Stretch 257 box @ 45.00ea(x2)- 90.00
Baby Wipes BIG BOX (Pampers) – 15.00
Laundry Detergent (free & clear) - 10.00
6 PK of Large canned powdered Good Start formula 75.00

So you do the math... Well under 650.00 & as you can see even if one chose to spend 800.00 to 1,000.00 initially on baby there is plenty of room for what the baby NEEDS versus what we a parents may simply "want"; and yes.. Cribs are wants. I didn't even use the thing until she was about 9 months old... meaning that is a cost that I could have avoided for another year almost. lol Now childcare costs and things of that nature are another ballpark.. I was speaking on the babys actual physical needs... where you opt to send baby- if you do send them anywhere is completely up to you. Hoped that information was helpful

[jenniboo]

Thanks MommiNikki. I am not expecting yet, but I hope to be in the somewhat near future. I'm doing a little research on the costs of having a baby. I appreciate you showing a picture of the Walmart/Target prices. I plan on being as economical as possible, while still getting quality items. My niece was raised on Walmart equipment/clothes and she turned out just fine! This was a big help for me.

[ann rose]

Please do not leave out college expense!!!!