I love giving myself little challenges so it’s no surprise that I had to set myself one for baby planning – buy nothing new. Well, at least 9 out of 10 times. Let’s not set the bar unreasonably high shall we.

Let’s face it, baby stuff can be ridiculously expensive and retailers will take advantage of this crucial time of vulnerability.  When you’re at your weakest moment and that adorable pair of Pumpkin Patch rompers, that required less than a half a square meter of fabric to put together and yet still costs the same price as MY own outfits – BUT they’re sooooo darn cute, it’s hard to resist.

I’m sure temptation will arise but I will be strong! There are the sustainability reasons for my choice but more so the practical economics of it. Starting a new business, new baby, one full income…. frugality is the new black in my hood.

I’ve been pretty strict in the buying process with my checklist:

• Pre-loved but in top notch condition,
• No hygiene concerns after it’s been steamed, dry cleaned, sterilised or given a good lick of paint,
• Hand me downs from family – I grew up on them, damn, so will my kid.

Being part of the ‘Sharing’ economy that is collaborative consumption, I’ve stumbled upon baby swapping sites (clothes and goods, not the baby itself) everywhere– Swap it Baby, Tredup, ecobums cloth nappy library are to name a few. Kids markets I hear are another gem.

So far, I’ve purchased our stroller, cot and bassinet from Gumtree and eBay.  That itself has saved us over $1000 compared to if we were to have bought the same items brand new. I’m hanging out for hand-me-downs from my sister-in-law who’s just had a baby two weeks ago. My brother tells me he has a spare potty coming my way. Beggars can’t be choosers I suppose. But my favourite purchase so far has been this little beauty – handmade Humpty from a Vinnie stores for $4!

It’s almost become a bit of an obsession really. Truth be told, there’s a thrill in finding bargains. Friends and family won’t be able to help themselves with getting Mini She/He something I’m sure, and even then, we’ve asked if they really feel so inclined– hand me downs or handmade will do. Naked isn’t a bad look either. For bubs, not me.

Mum or no mum, do you go pre-loved? Or is it brand new all the way?

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About the Author: Cheryl

When asked what she wanted to be when she grew up, Cheryl replied, "A Peacekeeper". Not really knowing what that entailed but figured that anything with the word 'peace' in it had to be pretty great. Cheryl didn't end up a UN Peacekeeper but still keeps the peace by bringing people together whether it be for business, a worthy cause, sporting activity or a big hearty pot luck (food is her second love). She started TaskRunners after deciding she wanted to be able to connect people on a wider scale and build a community sharing skills, talent and time. Cheryl's a self confessed health and sports nut (and nut nut) having a passion for adventure racing, cycling, trekking and almost anything that gets her out and about. She's also a mumma-to-be so things are going to get pretty interesting from here - come along and enjoy the ride!