Spit-up On My Shoulder

by Michelle Kennedy Hogan

8. A “Diaper” Bag – If you must have all the pockets and little goodies, go ahead. But if you have a tote bag in the closet (LL Bean boat totes work great! Of course, you’ll want to find them at a yard sale.) from the library or anywhere else, then just use that.

Want the changing pad? You can buy them separately or make one from one-inch foam cut to size from the fabric store and a quick pillow case cover if you hate to sew! Save the $40-$80 for your first night out alone!

9. Hooded Towel – They’re cute, but unnecessary. Need I say more? Your baby does not need animal ears on his towel to be cute. I swear, the kid will be cute enough. Just get a clean towel from the closet. He’ll get dry either way. Savings: $10-$30

10. A Vibrating Infant Seat – They’re silly and loud! If you think your baby is dying to vibrate in his infant seat (and you just want to put him down for a while), run the washing machine (full, of course) and put the seat on top of it. Just make sure you don’t leave! He could vibrate right off the top! Fold some laundry (if you’re feeling ambitious) or just read a book (a book? what’s a book?). Savings: $35 or more

There you go. Ten things you absolutely don’t need when you have a baby. I promise.

See Part 1 of this article here. Part 2 here.

Michelle Kennedy Hogan is the mother of six and the editor of
Organically Inclined. Her new book 100 Ways to Save Money Right Now is available in digital and print formats. She and her husband John homeschool their children, work from home and practice sustainable living on an organic farm in Vermont. Email her at: editor@organicallyinclined.org