10 Ways Parents Waste Money on Twin Supplies

Having twins is a considerable expense for parents and most families want to spend their money wisely. However, there are many ways that parents of twins waste their money when buying twin stuff. Avoid these mistakes to stretch your dollar further and get the most for your baby bucks.

1

Buying Everything Brand New

双胞胎的父母方式把钱浪费在双胞胎的东西。 Ruth Jenkinson / Getty Images

尽管聪明nd convincing marketing, you really don't have to buy a bevy of brand-newbaby productsfor your multiples. Your babies truly won't know the difference. Consider borrowing or swapping stuff with friends, neighbors, or relatives. So many baby products are only used for a short time anyway, in most cases only a few months.

2

Refusing to Join the Club

Clubs for parents of multiples exist in towns and cities all over the world and nearly all of them sponsor annual or biannual sales where families can buy and sell clothes, toys, and equipment. These events are a wonderful way to pick up great bargains on baby stuff. Not only will you save money, but you might even make some if you decide to recycle your own gently used stuff. Find a club: Club Directory orMultiples of America(USA),AMBA(Aus),Multiples New Zealand(NZ),MBC(Can),Twins Trust(UK).

3

Buying Two of Everything

Do multiples always mean more? When you have twins or more, your first instinct is to double-up on everything. However, you simply don't need two of everything. Figure out which items your children can share—and save. (The one thing your babies truly can't share is car seats—to each his own.)

4

Not Taking Advantage of Discounts and Deals

Some companies do offer special promotions just for parents of twins and multiples. This list provides details and contact information for some of them, likediapercoupons and even circus tickets.

5

Buying in Limited Quantities

With twins, there are certain consumable products that you're going to use a lot—like diapers, wipes, baby food. You can save a bundle by stockpiling these items when you find them discounted. Go on a scouting mission to determine the best price on your favorite products. Compare prices at both online and local stores, including grocery, discount and drug stores, and discount warehouses like Sam's Club or Costco.

6

Buying Into Baby Bath Accessories

There are plenty of baby bathtub products on the market. Some are designed for infants, but these are quickly outgrown to be replaced bybath seats, effectively sending money down the drain. Instead, use the sink to bathe infant multiples. As they get old enough to sit up, laundry baskets make a great bath seat. They hold the babies securely, are cheap, and can be recycled for other uses.

7

Throwing Away Coupons

Coupons, used effectively, can really stretch your dollars. Manufacturer coupons for diapers, formula, and jarred baby food are readily available. Look for grocery and discount stores that offer double coupon programs to maximize your savings. Register and get on the mailing lists for stores where you regularly shop. Many send out coupons in the mail or to an email address.

8

Not Extending the Life of Clothing

Clothing for two or more babies can be an exorbitant expense during the first year, especially considering they grow out of them very quickly. Get more wear out of your clothes with an inexpensive accessory: False Bottoms from One Step Ahead. They attach to onesies and other bottom-snap baby outfits and provide a few extra inches through the crotch, expanding them to fit as your babies grow. A pack of 6 sells for about $10. You could even make your own if you are handy with a sewing machine.

9

Buying Baby Teethers

When multiples start teething, you've got a double dose of sore gums. Baby stores are full of cute teething toys, but you can skip them and make your own. Frozen foods can also do the trick, such as frozen mini-bagels or even frozen french fries. (Use the thick, crinkle-cut variety.) Or, wet washcloths and stick them in the freezer, then let your babies gnaw and suck on them. You can also make your own zwieback toast.

10

Eating Expensively

Feeding two or more babies can be a big cost during the first year. The cheapest option to consider isbreastfeeding—it's free. However, if nursing's not for you, there are some ways to save money on formula. The powdered formula in bulk is the most cost-efficient product, followed by liquid concentrate. A ready-to-drink formula is the most expensive. As your babies get ready for solid food, considering making your own by pureeing "big people" food.

How do you save money on twin stuff?

Got a great cent-saving tip to share with other parents of multiples? A savings strategy that you want to recommend to others? Don't keep it to yourself!