This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Walmart. All opinions are 100% mine. So your new baby is on the way?
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This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Walmart. All opinions are 100% mine. So your new baby is on the way?
The post Baby Registry 101 appeared first on Moms and Crafters.
When I was pregnant with M, I was very much on the lookout for freebies for moms. There are so many brands out there that are trying to market to new moms, and one of the ways they market is by offering samples of their products for free. Not only is that a wonderful way to explore the various baby brands out there, and decide which you like, but you’ll also save some money on all those free stuff for babies out there.
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This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Nutrimom. All opinions are 100% mine. There’s a trend I noticed among parents I know.
The post The best gift you can give your baby appeared first on Moms and Crafters.
Wooden alphabet blocks make a perfect baby gift – so why not DIY a set to make things that much more special? This simple tutorial is great for beginners. You can make a trio (to use as a prop), or make a full set for play.
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Pregnancy is a time of ups, downs, challenges, and joyous moments. These pregnancy must haves include things to make life more pleasant, things you’ll absolutely need along the way, and some luxuries – because you deserve it!
Whether you’re looking for a gift for a pregnant mom, something to pamper someone on bed rest, or whether you are searching for better options for yourself, I hope this list of pregnancy must haves helps you out!
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I am so excited to bring you this nursing top tutorial, a guest post from Danielle, a fellow crafty mom from Pittsburgh. Danielle teaches us a simple sewing hack to turn any top (or nightgown in this case) into a nursing top so that you can feed your baby more painlessly.
We all know thatDIY Nursing Top tutorial appeared first on Moms and Crafters.
With my baby registry gift guide underway, it’s time to tackle those baby registry essentials that every mom needs! These essentials are perfect for including in your registry, or for buying for a baby shower that you attend. … Read on...
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Navigating the field of baby gear essentials you should register for can seem intimidating – but fear not! I have consolidated it here for you! If you’ve been following along with the baby registry gift guide, you have already seen… Read on...
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Welcome to the Baby Play section of my Baby Registry Gift Guide – possibly the most fun… Here you’ll find some of the best baby toys and play-based gift ideas, perfect for your baby registry, or that baby shower that… Read on...
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When it comes to buying baby clothing, giving exact suggestions gets tough. Therefore, I decided to share with you here the best baby clothing websites, along with a few specific ideas, as the clothing guide segment of my baby registry gift… Read on...
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With a new baby on the way, and all the excitement surrounding it, the big sibling is a huge part of the event. These big sibling gifts are split into three essential categories for practicality, fun, and teaching, and are possibly the most important part of myBig Sibling Gifts for when your new baby arrives appeared first on Moms and Crafters.
I see the question asked ALL.THE.TIME.
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If you’re wondering what to put on your baby registry, you are in the right place! I’ve been working on assembling this list for a while, and I’m finally ready to roll! You’ll see this is split into categories to… Read on...
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Why buy when you can DIY? These DIY baby toys are proof that sometimes handmade is even better….
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So you’ve had a baby, you may or may not have registered, but now you’re on to your second (or third or fourth) and wondering if you should create a baby registry. There are a few reasons a baby registry for second baby is a good idea, but I’ll start with the main overriding reason…
Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links.
The main reason to create a baby registry for second baby is so that you get the gifts you actually need.
Baby registries are great to have, whether you are having a baby shower or now, because they eliminate waste (when done right).
You are going to need some things for your second child that you do NOT still have from your first, even if you are having another of the same gender. When Baby Y was born, we had M’s clothing for him, but the seasons didn’t always overlap. Baby Y was born in the beginning of Spring, and M in Autumn. At first there was overlap, and then winter came and nothing fit him.
We had some hand-me-downs from his cousin, who was born the same month two years earlier, but was also born three pounds smaller than him… so once again, the seasons didn’t totally overlap. And that doesn’t even touch the issue of clothing that has yellowed in storage.
So you can see that even if your children are both the same gender, you should definitely register for your second child.
People are going to buy you gifts for your second child. Having a registry to point them to will ensure you get what you need and not more junk…
With Baby Y, I registered on Amazon (simply because they have literally everything so I knew I’d find what I wanted. Plus, people like to shop there – as shipping is easy and they know the site well.)
Granted, most of my gifts were not from there, but for the few people who asked, I did have a place to send them. I got a couple of things I really needed and had my completion discount to get the rest. Which brings me to…
1. Stock up on diapers –
And other things you still need! Between consumables (like diapers and baby food), filler clothing, that expired car seat and the baby bottles, there are going to be things that are no longer good. Register for those.
2. Get your dream stuff –
Being a mom is hard.
The first go round, you likely registered for all the practical things you knew you didn’t want to buy (or couldn’t). The second go round, make use of your registry to get those few items that you couldn’t even justify registering for the first time – that cool swing you were digging, that travel high chair or baby lounge…
3. Get stuff for the big sibling –
If you don’t need much for the baby, you can take advantage of the registry to get things for the potentially jealous big sibling. For ideas, check my list of big sibling gift ideas.
This includes not only jealousy-busting goodies, but also highly entertaining toys to gain mom some sanity.
4. Get free samples –
We all know that baby registries come with some awesome free samples, and that applies the second go round too!
When I registered on Amazon for Baby Y, did a free Amazon Family free trial too (which gets you a discount on diapers, by the way), and got a box of goodies… including full sized things like a pacifier, a baby hat, and more!
5. Get your completion discount –
Even if you DON’T anticipate that anyone will buy from your registry, and you don’t plan to have a baby shower, it’s worth registering just for the completion discount. In case you’re unfamiliar with the term, a completion discount is a discount code that the store you registered at sends you to buy things off your registry. With an Amazon baby registry I believe it’s between 10-15% (that can save you a nice chunk of cash off the double stroller!)
Which brings me to…
6. Get gear for two –
If you have a toddler, you’ll likely still need some of your baby gear for her.
Register for a double stroller or a buggy board, an additional convertible car seat (since your older child likely still needs it), or even a baby carrier so that you can wear one while pushing the other! Many of these cost a nice chunk of cash, making your completion discount more handy.
Want to know what to put on it? Find out what second-time moms need here!
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I hope you enjoy these fun DIY baby shower favors made by Kristen of Practical Mommy! She had fun washi-tape bombing these mini hand sanitizer bottles and I thought it would be cool to share it with you as a baby shower activity and favor…
Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links.
You know when you’ve been scrolling through Pinterest for a little too long and you get the crafting bug? Maybe you’re not normally a crafty person, but you just know you have to make something right away.
This is the perfect quick and easy craft for even the most crafty challenged moms. It only takes a few minutes to make a DIY washi tape project and today I chose to decorate a mini antibacterial gel bottle.
What is washi tape? It’s basically the female version of duct tape. It’s tape that is cute and colorful that you can decorate things with. You can also use it with your stationary supplies to make them super cute.
When I decorated this bottle, I also did a few other things. Because it seriously only takes a few minutes and you already have all this tape out. I also created some DIY washi tape travel shampoo and conditioner bottles and my iphone charger
This is also a great project for the kids to do or help with. My preschooler is practicing with scissors, so she likes to help me cut the tape. Or they can decorate their own antibacterial bottles along with you.
I found my mini antibacterial bottle in the travel section of Target, but you can find these anywhere. You might even have one in your house already that you can experiment with. These come in so handy to slip in a diaper bag or your purse.
Step 1 – Decide what colors and patterns you want to use.
I really liked this bottle of antibacterial because it was clear. So all I had to do was cover the label and I didn’t have to worry about clashing with colors on the actual bottle. I chose 3 coordinating colors – 2 solids and one pattern.
Step 2 – Start layering your tape.
It’s a good idea to start in the front of your project with the center of a strip of tape. It’s hard to center this stuff and you want to make sure the front looks best. Try to make sure all the seams line up in the back. But if you mess up, don’t worry! You can always pull it off and try again.
That’s it! Yes, these baby shower favors are really as simple as putting tape on a bottle!
This would make a great baby shower favors! I love giving new moms baskets of all the things they don’t even know they will need like lanolin for sore nipples and diapers and wipes travel cases. This would also be a nice personalized item for a gift basket for a new mom.
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He’s about to be a father – which is an amazing milestone and not one to be skipped! These Dad-to-be gifts are the perfect way to ease those nerves and surprise him. I’ve already discussed Gifts for Mom – now it’s dad’s turn! Disclosure: this post c0ntains commissioned links.
If a man in your life is about to be a new father, you may want to surprise him with some Dad-to-be gifts – whether it’s to help in the hospital, to ease those nerves, or to help him feel involved.
When I was pregnant with M, I remember my husband feeling a little out of it. While he wasn’t about to complain about it, considering how difficult he saw I was having him, I could tell that he felt disconnected from the whole experience.
Whether it’s a larger gift to celebrate fatherhood, or a small token – the equivalent of buying a coffee or some flowers, these Dad-to-be gifts are the perfect choice.
These gifts are focused on items that are perfect for buying Dad BEFORE the baby is born – although some can work soon after as well.
1. Dad’s Playbook: Wisdom for Fathers from the Greatest Coaches of All Time by Tom Limbert
Coaches are a lot like Dads. They motivate, love, act tough when need be, discipline and more. This book is a beautiful gift for a Dad-to-be with one hundred inspiring quotes from some of the greatest coaches of all time. There are beautiful photographs accompanying the quotes, and the book makes a lovely conversation piece.
2. Your Baby’s First Word Will Be DADA by Jimmy Fallon
Jimmy Fallon is one of my favorite talk show hosts, and this book is no exception to his exceptional talent. This is a wonderful book to share with your child, and a great way to ensure that his or her first word will definitely be “Dada”! If you want it to be kid-proof, the book also comes in a board book option.
This memory books makes for a beautiful keepsake that Dad can hold onto for years before passing it on to his children, grandchildren and, one day, great grandchildren. The pages have interesting questions meant to be thought-provoking and inspiring, for Dad to write down things he wants his offspring to remember.
4. Be Prepared by Gary Greenberg
This is the book every new Dad needs; a survival manual! Fatherhood is exciting, but it can scary too, especially for a new father who may not know what to expect. This book dispenses invaluable, no-nonsense advice, including things like creating an emergency diaper, baby-proofing a hotel room and other things that every Dad-to-be needs to know.
Get Dad in on the fun! Prepare the Dad-to-be with this fun gag gift at a baby shower, or anytime before baby arrives. The apron comes fully loaded with all the essentials; rubber gloves, clothespins, a face mask, and a baby toy! While it seems like it’s all in fun, Dad is sure to get excited about caring for his new child and will definitely be more willing to pitch in with changing diapers.
Dad’s going to be dressing the baby too, so why not get him something to help him out a bit? This adorable onesie is not just for the baby to wear, it’s a great to “educate” Dad what all the holes are for! It’s 100% cotton and comes in three colors, white, blue and pink. It also makes a great outfit for baby to wear on his or her first photo-shoot with Daddy.
7. Dad and Baby Matching T-shirts
Dad will love bonding with his new baby in these fun, matching tshirts. They make for a perfect photo op, and Dad will love the pizza motif. They work for both boys and girls, and they’ll make a special gift unique to just Dad and baby.
8. Skin to Skin Dad Wrap Shirt
Skin to skin bonding is super important for both Dad and baby. It not only promotes bonding, but it’s also very healthy for the baby, and provides emotional support. Mothers and babies usually have this sort of bonding more naturally, but it’s equally important for Dad to bond with his new child in a similar fashion. This terrific t-shirt is comfortable and stylish while enabling Daddy to care for and bond with his newborn.
9. New Dad Hospital Comfort Gift Basket
Everyone’s always making sure that the new Mom has all her stuff packed for the hospital, but what about the new Dad? Make sure the Dad-to-be has all the essentials, like snacks, caffeine, and some personal care items. There can be a lot of waiting time while Mom is in labor, or staying overnight after the baby is born, so this gift is a great way to make sure that Daddy is taken care of too.
This lovely sound wave print makes for an incredibly unique, thoughtful gift for a new father. These wave prints are custom made using any recording you wish. Record a special message for a new Dad using an ultrasound heartbeat recording, or turn it into your pregnancy announcement and gift it to your partner! It’s a gift that is sure to be treasured forever.
This beautiful and thoughtful gift is a great way for a Dad-to-be to track his partner’s pregnancies and count down to the arrival of his precious new baby. It can be customized to include any wording you want, and it comes with a handy piece of chalk to mark the weeks left to the exciting due date. It’s a wonderful way to mark the passage of the weeks and months, and Dad will get so excited every time he sees it.
This diaper bag has got Daddy’s name stamped all over it. Manly, useful and practical, Dad will love toting this diaper bag around. The diaper bag has interior dividers to keep it as organized as possible and a handy key holder clip so Daddy doesn’t lose anything important. The straps are wide and padded for ultimate comfort. It even has a padded compartment for a tablet. This diaper bag makes a great gift for any Dad-to-be in your life.
13. Hiking Child Carrier Backpack
If you know a new Dad who has a passion for hiking and camping, this is the ultimate gift. Let Dad bring baby along for the fun! This child carrier was designed specifically for hiking; it will go from baby to toddler and it has a lightweight, balanced frame. It won’t hold just the baby, it also has a duffel bag attached, and a special place for short-term food storage. It also comes with a sun shade and rain guard cover to protect baby from the elements. This hiking child carrier backpack makes for a practical gift that is sure to be remembered.
This unique shirt is a great gift item for a new Dad. It’s a super simple baby carrier, and very easy for Dad to use to calm a newborn. There are no wraps, no tying and no adjusting. All Daddy has to do is slip the baby inside and hold him close. It’s a great way for a new father to bond with his baby and give Mommy a break. Dad may just wear this shirt every single day!
Loved this? Check out the following helpful gift lists:
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There are two main kinds of video baby monitors featured here:
When searching for the best video baby monitor, there’s one thing you’ll need to keep in mind: they simply do not have the crisp, clear images that they are advertised with. In that way, they are all equal. You need to see photos in the reviews for the real image quality.
In that way, I have found that my WiFi connected monitor was my best video baby monitor that I tried. I believe that this is due to the fact that your phone in general has a much better video quality, so they can invest more into making a quality camera and not worry about the display.
The downside of a Wifi monitor is that I find the connectivity to a bit more complicated to get going. That being said, I’ve scoured for the best reviewed monitors even beyond the ones that I personally tried and came up with FOUR for you to choose and decide what’s the best video baby monitor for your needs.
You’ll find a budget-friendly and a top-rated option for standard video monitors and for Wifi-connected ones that work with your smartphone.
In each section, I’ll outline the pros and cons of that type of video baby monitor too.
Pros of video baby monitors with a parent unit:
Cons of video baby monitors with a parent unit:
The top rated best video baby monitor: over 17,000 4-5 star reviews:
The Infant Optics DXR-8 Video Baby Monitor has consistent glowing reviews – and with an average of 4.4 stars out of over 20,000 reviews, I know I can rely on them. And it’s not even the most expensive one out there – surprise, surprise!
It’s the Amazon #1 best seller as this article is being written, and let’s explore why.
Some cool features:
There are more features, way to many to list, so check it out for yourself!! And you’ll want to pop into the reviews section too – multiple customers gave feedback on amazing customer service, something that’s essential when choosing the best video baby monitor.
The budget-friendly best baby video monitor with a parent unit:
Once I shifted goals to saving money, as opposed to getting the best out there, my standards dropped. I scoured many products for those whose complaints were simply on par with decreased quality due to decreased price.
The one that I felt had the best balance of save vs. still good enough was the incoSKY one. It’ll do the job for more short-term use, for an older child, or if you’re not too picky. So why’d I choose it? It works without a lot of bells and whistles. And while at this price point you WILL need to make some compromises, these are the ones you may be willing to make.
Some bullet points:
This budget pick for the best video baby monitors seems to have a good percentage of satisfied customers, and downvotes for the right reasons.
Pros of video baby monitors that connect to you phone:
Cons of IP video baby monitors with no parent unit:
The top rated best WIFI video baby monitor: The Nanit
To be honest, it wasn’t easy to choose which best video baby monitor to put in the “top rated” spot – there are so many new and emerging ones that the ones with top reviews don’t have THAT many. But reading through the reviews on each, I chose the Nanit Smart Baby Monitor because users seemed to consistently love it.
The crisp, clear overhead view results from the “showerhead” design and is just one of the reasons that reviewers have made statements such as “Buy this one, Momma. Yes. This one.”
Some cool features:
Once again, there are so many more features – check out the full list here!
If you’re looking for the remote viewing WiFi capabilities, this is the best video baby monitor according to my research.
Some comparable options in case you’re looking for other features:
The budget-friendly best baby video monitor that connects to your phone:
Once again, when you’re saving you’ll be getting lower quality, less features, and since we’re working with IP cameras here, a poorer quality app.
The LeFun WiFi camera isn’t necessarily designed as a baby monitor (although they do promote it as such). It’s quite inexpensive, and with 3.8 star average reviews at the time this post is being written, it outperforms the budget option with a parent unit.
Some bullet points:
From the various options I’ve explored, this seems to be the best video baby monitor for WiFi connections if you’re on a tight budget.
If you’re the kind of person who needs someone to tell you “just get this one!!” I’m happy to share what I’d do the next time around.
The Infant Optics DXR-8 Video Baby Monitor is hands-down the top-rated, with an extremely high number of positive reviews. I personally prefer NOT to occupy my phone, and the easy connectivity.
I’ll remind you that it’s very easy for a baby monitor to get negative reviews, there’s so much that can go wrong, so for a product like this to have so many positive reviews makes me really trust it.
Many video baby monitors that I’ve tried and have worked for me, although not “like a dream” have ridiculously negative reviews, leading me to believe that the Infant Optics video baby monitor is the king of all monitors.
Loved learning about the best video baby monitor? Check out these posts below!
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There are so many legitimate free stuff for moms that can truly help, so I decided to list some for you. You might also find my list of the best baby products on a dime helpful. Disclosure: this post contains affiliate ads that earn me a commission. Sample availability and offerings change over time and anything specific mentioned below is just an example of what you might potentially get. Information is accurate as of 2/15/21.
When I was pregnant with M, finances were extremely tight, and I was very much on the lookout for free stuff for moms. There are so many brands out there that are trying to market to new moms, and one of the ways they market is by offering samples of their products for free. Not only is that a wonderful way to explore the various baby brands out there, and decide which you like, but you’ll also save some money on all those free stuff for babies.
I did the same with Y and Princess A (born 2016 and 2020) and I update this post as often as I find necessary so these should pretty much all be active today!
Table of contents:
Some things are totally free, but some will require you to pay shipping. Often, it’s worth it, as the shipping is a fraction of the cost of purchasing that product.
Tip: Get those that you can really use, and skip the rest.
Avoid samples that say “when you complete offers” like fire! In my experience they are NOT legit, sometimes take you through so many hoops where you accidentally sign up for magazines, insurance, and whatnot. Some of them seriously seem to sell your info (but I could be wrong).
Most companies offer you a freebie because they hope you’ll like it enough to buy afterward. Indeed, I have chosen the brands of baby bottles I stick to based on free samples.
Many free stuff for moms are actually trials. Meaning, the company is giving you a chance to try the service before you buy it – and you might just want to continue! That means, once the trial period is over, it will charge you. ALL OF THOSE IN THIS LIST CAN BE CANCELED! I made sure! I wouldn’t share with you any kind of subscription service that can’t be canceled.
Tip: You can spot auto-renewed trials by the terminology – they are usually referred to as trials, not samples.
Another tip: when you order it, note when the renewal is. Set an alarm on your phone a few days before the renewal. Assess how much you liked the service, if it’s worth continuing. If not, cancel it. You won’t be charged. I’ve done this many times and it’s been fool-proof. I have yet to pay for a service I didn’t like.
Oh glorious registries! These are my absolute favorites! I’ve gotten so many goodies in registry boxes and they’ve helped me figure out the right bottles and pacifiers for my babies, stockpile some basics, and try new things. Some have even come with swaddle blankets and bodysuits! Baby registry boxes usually come with a good mix of full size and samples and also help you with your first few weeks of needs.
Some registries have basic requirements before they send a box, noted below. Content varies so any images are just samples of what you might see in one of these boxes.
They also come with other perks, such as completion discounts, which can save you a LOT!
Amazon – My absolute favorite. You need to complete (as in put together, NOT purchase) 60% of the registry, and purchase $10 from it. I purchased an essential from the registry myself since I shop Amazon anyway. If you get only one of the free stuff for moms on this list, this should be the one!
Target – You’ll need to go in store to pick this one up but you can create the registry online first. You’ll get a QR code they’ll scan to give you your gift bag. You’ll also probably get some coupons to use. No requirements other than having a registry.
Walmart – just fill out a form and it’s shipped to your house.
Sign up with Similac – You can sign up for free samples of baby formula, plus they’ll also send you checks in the mail. Even if you plan to breastfeed, you’ll want to have a few cans handy just in case.
Sign up with Enfamil. Both clubs are very similar, and it’s a great way to see which formulas your baby takes.
Medela Moms Room – If you plan to breastfeed, join the Moms Room for a few samples (such as breast milk storage bags, sterilizing bags, etc).
Bump Club and Beyond Baby Bag – This one was similar to the registry freebies and so cool! Follow the instructions to claim your totally free baby samples.
Motherhood Preggie Perks – I haven’t received this one, but it seems to be Motherhood Maternity’s club, which gives you a welcome bag when you arrive. From my research, it seems to be a much more slimmed down version of the registry freebies with lots of coupons and a few samples.
Get a free $10 if you’re new to Rakuten. Rakuten is an online rebate website. If you shop through their links, you get rebates at various merchandisers. You also get a $10 bonus when you use them the first time. I use them ALL.THE.TIME. and have made quite a few nice payouts. This is possibly one of the best free stuff for moms (or anyone else) – I got a $10 Target gift card when I signed up, used it to buy diapers, AND got 2.5% back on the Children’s Place order I was anyway placing.
Tip: Install their web browser add-on to remind you to use them when you shop – they auto-load the best coupon code for that website too!
Reminder: since you’re paying shipping, stick to those that are helpful to you and get incredible value!
Instructions: Click on “shop now” and select the amount of the coupon value that you would like to your cart. I tried to list coupon value on each product/website. Once you have made your selection, you will automatically be directed to the shopping bag. Enter the promo code “PJBABY” and the coupon value will be deducted. These books make GREAT gifts too; selections dwindle quickly so get yours ASAP! *Remember, you can use the promo code “PJBABY” more than once, just open a new browser to do so!* *Offers valid while supplies last.
Belly button band for pregnancy – Promo Code PJBABY. Code has $40 value so you can get 2 belly button bands or one belly button body. I had these and they helped me get much more use out of my bottoms while pregnant and saved me so much $$! They are also great for postpartum until my old clothing fit again.
Breast pads – Promo code PJBABY. Code has $35 value. Reusable pads are so convenient (no peeling wrappers, etc), save money, and are greener. If you plan to breastfeed you’ll want these! They also helped keep me warm when I was having issues with vasospasm.
Baby leggings or bandana bibs – Promo Code PJBABY for a $50 value. At $10 each you can get 5.
Baby Board Books – Promo Code PJBABY for $40 off. Books are $8 each and perfect for establishing that first library, and for gifts.
Free Ruffle Buns – Promo Code PJBABY for $60 off. These are incredibly cute ruffled diaper covers for girls, including dressy options. They also have a line of non-ruffled ones for boys. You can get 3 for this value.
Free Custom Snappies Bodysuits – Promo Code PJBABY for $50 off. That works for two bodysuits – either their designs or create your own.
Free Car seat canopy – use code PJBABY for $50 off. For free, choose from jersey stretch covers, hanging canopies, muslin canopies, and more. Some items are pricier but you can still use the $50 off coupon for them.
Nursing Pillow– use code PJBABY for $40 off. That covers the cost of the print pillows, but you can upgrade to minky fabric for a few bucks.
I really wished I had this when I was breastfeeding M, but did not know about this freebie for moms. The cost of buying one in the store was too forbidding, so I did without. I used nursing pillows for Y and Princess A. They are a lifesaver.I highly recommend paying the shipping cost on this – it’s worth having!
Free Nursing cover – use code PJBABY for $35 off. Same story as above! I missed this so much with my first!
Free Baby Carrier – Code PJBABY for $40 credit. Get a free sling-style baby carrier for this value! They have wrap carriers too but those are $20 more.
Free breast pump: As part of the Affordable Care Act, new moms can get a free breast pump via their insurance. I actually didn’t place an order from mine, until I learned that the Medela that I had and loved with M has an open system and is not safe to reuse (as bacteria and mold can build up inside and reach the baby.) So I finally ordered a new one via my insurance.
Car seats – Some insurance companies help with or provide a baby car seat. Contact yours to find out.
Free Window Safety Retrofit Kits: Window shade cords are a strangulation hazard, so if your home has corded shades, you can order free kits to fix it.
OTC card: Some insurances offer a free Over the Counter benefit. That’s a monthly budget that’s usable for certain items. You may be able to use it for lactation supplies, adult incontinence products (which are great for postpartum), diaper rash creams, and more. Reach out to your insurance (or google) to find out.
Having a baby is expensive for most people, but if you’re really struggling, the occasional sample might not be enough. Thankfully, there ARE community resources that can help you, and I’ve tried to include as many as I know about here.
Craigslist, Facebook local groups/marketplace: Many people are looking to purge old baby stuff. Hit up “give away” websites and you might even find someone charging $0 for their old baby gear! Meet up safely – here are some tips.
Some items shouldn’t be used second hand – such as cribs and car seats – unless you know and trust the person giving it to you.
Car seats: There are some income-based resources for free car seats which you can find here. If you receive WIC or SNAP benefits you are likely eligible. There may be additional requirements (such as owning a vehicle or attending a child passenger safety class). You can also ask at your local WIC offices about this.
Diaper Banks: If you are in need of diapers, find out if you have one near you or how you can access free diapers here.
Try Amazon Family for 30 days – free! You have all the benefits of Prime, plus extra discounts on things such as diapers. (You should definitely do this if you’re creating an Amazon registry, as it’s likely required for your gift box, plus you’ll get a larger completion discount.)
Free month of ABCmouse.com – Entertain you kids while educating them! I love this for keeping kids busy. This is also perfect for summer and winter break boredom – a productive activity to save mom’s sanity!
Free Kindle Unlimited Trial – When breastfeeding I read A LOT. Frankly, being incapacitated while recovering postpartum can be boring. Sign up for Kindle Unlimited’s free trial.
You can also give Audible Plus a try for free.
Want more? I put together a new list of freebies for women! Check it out…
Did I miss something? Which free stuff for moms did you get, or do you know of? I’d love to hear in the comments below!
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