It is often said that the first year for new parents is the hardest. With new baby comes immeasurable joy but also incredibly strained finances. It is estimated that the average family will spend between $9,000 and $11,000 during baby?s first year alone. Take heart, new parents. There are plenty of ways that you can cut many of your costs simply by being careful with your money and not indulging in every whim.

Make a deal with yourself to save money

If you are an expecting parent and you are concerned about the high costs of baby?s first year, make a deal with yourself to save money. One of the hardest things to do as an expectant parent is to resist buying everything in sight. Every parent wants the best for their child, but keep in mind that many of the things you buy during baby?s first year will be only used once. Buying name-brand diapers and an overpriced bassinet that you can?t really afford is not going to do your baby any favors. Make a deal with yourself to save where you can, to keep from overspending on items that may be beautiful but not particularly necessary in the long run, and to be smart about your baby?s purchases. Here are some ways to save money without compromising your sanity or your baby?s health and happiness.

Breastfeed whenever possible

Breastfeeding has been proven as the healthiest option for feeding your baby during the first years. Not only is it healthier for your baby than bottle feeding, it is also more economical. Most doctors agree that breastfeeding exclusively during your baby?s first half year of life will help give his immune system a boost. Not only will your baby benefit from increased health, your wallet will benefit from increased savings. Some mother?s are not able to breastfeed their children. If this is the case, you can save money by avoiding the brand name formula and buying the store brand or generic formula instead. Generic formula costs on average 30% less than name brand formula and, by law, must meet the same FDA standards as the brand name formulas. You can also save on formula by signing up for coupons from manufacturer?s mailing lists. Your pediatrician can also provide you with free samples. Always look past the attractive name brand packaging, because in most cases that is what you will be paying for.

Save money by switching to generic diapers

If you want to save money on disposable diapers, always opt for the generic brand. Many larger chain stores carry their own store brand of disposable diapers which are usually just as good as the brand name diapers. You can expect to save about 30% on disposable diapers simply by buying the generic store brand.

Shop at garage sales and second hand stores for used baby clothes

Most babies will quickly outgrow their expensive little outfits. You can often find nearly new or gently used baby clothes at garage sales and at used baby clothes. While it may be tempting to shop at chain baby emporiums, you will quickly save on baby essentials if you get into the habit of frequenting gently used baby stores.

Shop consignment stores for great deals on baby furniture

One of the biggest expenses you will have as a new parent is furnishing the baby nursery. You can save a lot by shopping for gently used baby furniture, including high chairs, bouncers and cribs. Shop consignment stores and gently used baby stores for great deals on used baby furniture. You can also find great baby gear such as bathtubs, strollers and monitors.