How to Find Free or Discounted Baby Clothes and Furniture

Finding free baby clothes and furniture is usually a blessing to most families. Babies grow at such a fast pace that they can outgrow clothes they have never worn or have only worn once. And most furniture that is advertised is really unnecessary for babies. The following steps will give you an idea of the places you can check for free or discounted baby clothes and furniture-so that you can save your money and spend it where it counts.

Instructions

1. One of the most practical ways to find things for free is to ask friends and family members for hand-me-downs. Don't feel obligated to take anything that is soiled or you aren't comfortable with. Hand-me-downs can be a great way to stock up on clothes without spending a fortune, and furniture can be used as long as there are no defects that would compromise safety issues.

2. Check the classified section of your local newspaper. Some people want to sell things, but will consider giving them away if they don't sell fast enough or they know there is an actual need for the items. You can always contact the seller and ask if they will negotiate on the price or let it go for free.

3. Check at local garage sales. The object at most garage sales is to get rid of the stuff as quickly as possible. If you are an early riser, get there early and make an offer the seller can't refuse.

4. Check Freecycle.org (see Resources below). Freecycle is a fabulous resource for families looking for free items. People list tons of baby items including clothes and furniture. Freecycle is in major cities in every state. Have your friends and family members also check Freecycle in their areas if they live in other states or cities.

5. Check Craigslist (see Resources). Craigslist is similar to Freecycle, except not everything is free. Check what is listed and see what it is listed for, then bargain with the seller if necessary.

6. Join a Meetup group (see Resources). Meetup groups are generally local and are comprised of many specialties. Finding a local group of moms could be very beneficial, as they may have things to pass down as well.

7. Find outreach programs through churches and other religious organizations. Many have outreach or donation programs and they offer free baby stuff. If the church or other organization you contact doesn't have this feature, chances are they will know someone who does.

8. Contact a local pregnancy crisis center. Many centers are funded through grants and often purchase clothes or furniture for their clients. They may have enough resources to help you out. Additionally, most are nonprofits, so people throughout the community donate things to them and might even supply handmade clothes and accessories.

9. Check your local kid discount stores such as Kid-to-Kid. These discount stores generally have great deals on clothes and furniture, and can really make a difference in your budget. Since they accept donated clothes, they often have leftovers and items that aren't exactly perfect that they cannot use. If the seller doesn't want them back, you can get them for free.

10. Check ebay and Baby Loot Classifieds (see Resources), which are both auction sites. Ebay has a huge baby section and Baby Loot has only baby items. Sellers often offer discounted items with free shipping. They are indeed a source of discounted items that you don't need right away. Also, since sellers have a reputation to protect, most items are in very good condition, unless otherwise noted.

Tips & Warnings

• Always inspect your items for safety issues or concerns.

Resources

• Ebay
• Craigslist
• Freecycle
• Meetup Groups
• Baby Loot Classifieds