When you have a baby and a tight budget, it is hard to figure out where to spend your money, without becoming broke. There are many great ways to cut corners, and to save yourself money.

One of the best places to start is with the diapers. What brand of diapers are you planning to use for your baby? If you just mentioned a brand name, you need to reconsider. Store brands of diapers are most often just as high of quality, and can save you several dollars on each bag. You may even discover your baby is more comfortable in the store brands. If you believe you MUST buy name brand diapers, then never buy without a coupon. You can find coupons for diapers in newspapers, baby magazines, and on the internet.

Are you planning to breast feed or to use formula? Breast feeding should be your first choice if possible. Breast feeding has very few costs associated with it, and is better for your baby’s health and development. If you must use formula, then ask your baby’s pediatrician what needs to be in the baby formula. Do not ask him which formula to use. Almost every doctor will recommend a name brand formula, but there are equivalent store brands with prices sometimes 30 to 40 percent below the name brands. Comparing the nutritional information between the name brand and store brand can help you make an informed decision. Again, if you feel you must use name brand products, always buy with coupons.

One of the largest expenses setting up for a baby is getting a stroller, car seat, and baby bed. You have many ways to save money in these areas. The most obvious choice is to ask family and friends if they have items you can borrow. You will save all of the money for these larger items. You can find many of these items at second hand stores, garage sales, and flea markets. Just make sure to check the items very closely to make sure they are complete, and are still in good working order. If you need to buy new, take the time to check prices online, and in a couple different stores. You will discover you can find high quality items at very reasonable prices. Stay away from the temptation to buy the cute items, buy what you need. Ask about buying display models, many stores will discount the price of a display item to get it moved out of inventory.

Another large expense you can trim is the cost of vaccinations. Your pediatrician’s office may be where you prefer to have the vaccination done, but often they are many times more expensive. You can choose to have the injections done at your local health department for a fraction of the cost.

When you have a baby and a tight budget, you must think a little more creatively, and explore all your options. You can save yourself hundreds or even thousands of dollars during the first year of your baby’s life by making good decisions. Your money can go much farther than you ever imagined.