When new parents think of buying items for their baby’s nursery, some panic because new furniture (as we all know) can be quite expensive. Visions of future credit card debt can make any new mom or dad break into a sweat.
However, there are always ways to cut corners, and make furnishing the baby’s room less expensive. Here are a few ideas to get you thinking frugally before rushing out to purchase brand new furniture for your child’s room.
The crib
New parents may think they need both a bassinet and a crib. The frugal shopper will choose to skip the bassinet, which is typically viewed as a luxury. The crib is a necessity, but the bassinet is only used for a just few months (4 months at the most). Then it is stored away in an attic or garage somewhere until the next baby comes or it is passed down to another family member.
When shopping for a crib, keep your eyes open for a bargain on a convertible style crib. A convertible crib is great because down the road when your child gets older it can transform from a crib, to a toddler bed, and then a full size bed. If you can invest in a convertible crib, it would alleviate the cost of a buying separate furniture pieces in the future.
The Dresser
A great place to find furniture is at a flea market or garage sale. Thrifty shoppers know that purchasing a full-sized dresser is more economical than buying a small dresser, because you can continue to use it in any bedroom for any child. Remember that you will eventually have to turn the baby’s room into a child’s bedroom, and a smart investment now can grow with your child through the years. Dont be afraid to buy an older dresser. An older dresser can be as good as new with just a coat of paint, assuming all hardware is working well. If not, you can replace the knobs with new ones that you can purchase at any local hardware or home store.
Changing Table
The changing table is a luxury for the frugal shopper. Check places like the Salvation Army, Goodwill, and of course yard sales. These tables are often discarded when the baby outgrows them. Another great option for a frugal changing table is to convert a full-size dresser into a changing table. If you search online, you can find instructions to easily turn your dresser into a safe place to change your baby. The changing table is an item some moms choose to do without, and instead, set a blanket or pad on the bed or even the floor to change their babies on.
I am sure in a perfect world, we would all appreciate the luxury of going out and buying everything new at a baby boutique. However, the reality is that a baby does not need the most expensive furniture. Really, your baby only needs one thing, and that is YOU.
DaVinci Emily 3 Drawer Baby Changer – Oak
