How to Save Money on School Uniforms

Uniforms make it easy for kids to get dressed for school in the morning, but they're one more expense for parents. However, with some coordination, you can save money on uniforms over the course of your child's school career.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Wait for sales. Most school uniforms are available only at certain stores, so shopping for a better price isn't an option. When the store has a sale on school uniforms, stock up, even if school is over for the year. The off-season is the best time to save money on school uniforms.

2. Accept hand-me-downs. Upper classmen outgrow their uniforms and must buy new ones. If your child makes friends with some upper classmen, he may become the recipient of hand-me-down uniforms. Any uniform pieces you get free will save you money on your overall uniform budget. Return the favor by handing down your old uniforms to a younger student.

3. Buy the basic pieces. Learn to mix and match the school uniform pieces to get the most wear out of each piece. You only need to buy one blazer, since it can be worn several times each week. Your child can wear the same skirt with a sweater one day and a blazer the next, so one skirt and one pair of pants can get you through the week.

4. Take out the sewing machine. Before discarding a uniform because it no longer fits, alter the skirts, pants and blazers. The more time you get out of each piece, the fewer you have to buy during your child's school career.