How to Put Together a Nursery on a Tight Budget

So you see two little pink lines on the pregnancy test and you're trying to figure out how to afford all those things you feel you will need. With a little bit of creativity and time, you can get the things you need without breaking the bank.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Start out with a trip to the baby section at your local department store. Look at cribs, playpens, strollers and all the other adorable baby items. Be sure to look through feeding supplies and search every aisle. Get an idea of the things you think you will need, and take note of prices.

2. Talk to new parents. If you don't know any, stop parents in the baby section aisles. Try to get an idea of what they really use for their infant and what they don't use. Many items in the baby section that you think you may need probably won't be used. Talking to parents will give you an idea of the "must-have" items.

3. Look in the phone book for secondhand and consignment stores. Many of these stores specialize in baby items. Head out to these stores with a pen and paper in hand and take note of prices. If you are looking at a crib or other baby furniture or toys, write down serial numbers and make and model.

4. Use the product information you obtained at the stores to see if any of the items you looked at have any safety concerns or recalls. You can do this by going to the manufacturers' websites, or by searching for news stories.

5. Buy items that haven't been recalled at secondhand stores. There is nothing wrong with picking up baby items secondhand. You may want to pack a set of batteries in your purse or jacket so you can try out items, though. If you do purchase secondhand, make sure to disassemble the items when you get home and wash all cloth pieces. Take a soapy rag or sponge to any plastic pieces to wash them. Many items are like new and can be cleaned up very easily.

Tips & Warnings

• Many items in secondhand shops still have the tags on them. Shop around and take your time.
• Everything in the nursery doesn't have to match. If the swing is one pattern and the high chair is another, your baby won't care.
• Items don't have to be gender-specific. If you're having a little girl, she won't care if she sleeps in blue pajamas.
• Remember that babies go through clothing, burp clothes and blankets very quickly. So, try to stock up.
• Make sure you always check out items before purchase. Ensure nothing has been recalled and that all items still meet safety standards.
• If you have doubts, don't purchase the items.