Let’s be honest, saving money in this economy is hard enough, let alone adding a baby to the mix! I remember going on maternity leave and really getting a shock at how little maternity allowance I had compared to my usual income.
Luckily, I figured out some ways to work with what I had and save money on maternity leave. I hope these tips can help you too!
How to save money on maternity leave
Whether you’ve just found out your pregnant, your due date is around the corner, or your baby has already arrived and you’re settling into motherhood, these tips are for you.
Here are some ways to save money on mat leave…
1. Cancel subscriptions
If you’re paying for subscriptions like Spotify, Netflix, a bank account or the gym, but not getting your full use out of them, now is the time to cancel.
You can use money management apps like Emma and Snoop to flag all your subscriptions and help you find forgotten accounts.
Psst… Sign up to Snoop for free using this link and receive a £5 Amazon voucher when you connect your bank account.
If you want to keep any of your subscription but you’re struggling with the cost, consider looking at family plans to split the cost and save some cash.
Currently on a free trial? Don’t forget to cancel before the trial period ends!
2. Buy second-hand
Little ones grow out of things so quickly that it just makes sense to buy preloved baby essentials. You can find some amazing bargains on clothes, toys, and even nursery furniture that look almost new.
Sites like Vinted, Facebook Marketplace, and local charity shops are treasure troves for parents on a budget. I personally love a good charity shop or Vinted bargain, especially when it comes to kids clothes and toys!
3. Sell what you don’t need
If you’ve reached the nesting phase and have a sudden urge to declutter, don’t let things gather dust – sell them instead!
Platforms like eBay or local selling groups are perfect for turning clothes, furniture, and accessories into a bit of extra cash to add to your maternity savings pot.
It’s such an easy way to declutter and feel productive at the same time. Once you’ve outgrown the baby stage, you can also continue to sell on stuff to other new mummies and daddies.
4. Use cashback sites and discount codes
Before you hit that checkout button, always check for a discount code or cashback offer. This little tip helped me saved so much money when we bought anything new for our little girl.
Cashback sites and voucher sites also have browser extensions, making it super easy to save a few pounds here and there. It might not seem like much at first, but those little savings really do add up over time.
5. Claim baby freebies
There are so many free goodies out there for parents if you know where to look! From baby boxes to free samples and vouchers, it’s well worth signing up for baby freebies like nappies and bottles.
It’s a fun way to try out new products without spending a penny. Look on freebie sites to find the latest free baby stuff every day.
Also, keep an eye out on local sites like Facebook and Gumtree. Sometimes people give away baby stuff, sometimes almost brand new bits!
6. Sign up to loyalty schemes
Make the most of loyalty reward schemes – they’re a great way to save money on the things you already buy anyway. Supermarkets, baby clubs, and coffee shops often offer discounts, freebies, or points that quickly turn into real savings.
My favourites are Boots Parenting Club, Morrisons More, and Tesco Clubcard.
The Costa Club app is also great if you’re needing a little caffiene boost, as you can earn points that you can turn into freebies like free drinks and cakes. It’s also a perfect spot for mummy meet ups!
Sign up with using my referral link and we’ll both get 6 beans when you buy your first drink.
7. Find free baby classes
You don’t need to spend a fortune to keep your little one entertained. Many libraries, churches and community groups offer cheap and free baby classes or play sessions. It’s a lovely way to get out of the house and meet other parents too.
Check out my top tips for saving money on baby and toddler classes to find out more ways to save.
8. Cook and eat at home
Eating out can be expensive, especially if you do it multiple times a week, or have regular takeaways.
Cooking and eating at home doesn’t have to mean missing out. With a bit of planning, you can make quick, tasty meals for a fraction of the cost of eating out. Plus, it’s way more relaxed — pyjamas are optional, but highly recommended.
It’s also a good idea to try a bit of meal prepping and freeze meals, they can really be a life saver during the newborn phase and help avoid the urge to order on Deliveroo every night!
9. Ask for gift cards as presents
When friends or family ask what you’d like for a baby shower gift, or for birthdays and Christmas, I recommend suggesting gift cards.
They’re such a practical option and you get to spend the money on what you like or need. Perfect for treating yourself, your baby, or even covering essentials when money is tight.
10. Start a low-stress side hustle
If you have a skill or passion, why not turn it into a flexible side hustle? Whether it’s selling crafts, offering freelance services, or sharing content online, it’s a great way to earn a little extra without taking on too much stress.
If that sounds too intense, low-hassle side earners like taking surverys or testing websites while your baby sleeps can also help boost your budget.
Mystery shopping is also a good way to help you earn extra cash and get you and your little one out of the house.
Saving money on maternity leave is all about balance — finding those little tweaks that make your life easier as a new mummy without feeling like you’re compromising all the time.
From shopping second-hand to making the most of freebies and loyalty points, every small change adds up. So take what works for you, skip what doesn’t, and remember: you’re doing an amazing job managing it all!
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