Save Money on Kids
Smart tips for keeping costs down without compromising on quality.
Buy Second-Hand
Children grow out of clothes and equipment quickly. Second-hand is both economical and environmentally friendly – and often in excellent condition.
Best places to buy second-hand
- Facebook Marketplace and local buy/sell groups
- eBay and Vinted
- NCT nearly new sales
- Charity shops and car boot sales
Potential savings on equipment
- Pram (new ~£400)Save £200+
- Car seat (new ~£150)Save £75
- Cot (new ~£150)Save £100
Clothes Smart
Children can grow out of clothes in just a few months. Here are tips for keeping clothing costs down:
Clothing tips
- Buy basics in larger sizes and roll up
- Focus on quality for outerwear that's used longer
- Shop sales – children's clothes are often discounted
- Swap or borrow clothes with friends who have children of different ages
Food and Nappies
Food and nappies are ongoing costs that can be reduced with a bit of planning.
Money-saving tips for food
- Make your own baby food instead of buying jars
- Buy nappies and wipes in bulk
- Compare prices between shops
- Consider reusable nappies (high initial cost but saves in long run)
Childcare - Tax-Free Childcare
The government offers Tax-Free Childcare to help with costs. For every £8 you pay in, the government adds £2.
Tax-Free Childcare
- Government top-up20% (up to £2,000/year)
- For disabled childrenUp to £4,000/year
- Available untilAge 11 (or 16 if disabled)
Free childcare hours
All 3-4 year olds get 15 hours free childcare. Working parents may be eligible for 30 hours free. This now extends to children from 9 months old.
Activities and Toys
Free activities
- Libraries – free books, story time and activities
- Parks and playgrounds
- Children's centres often have free stay and play sessions
- Free museum entry for children
Toys
- Buy second-hand – toys often last a long time
- Swap toys with other families
- Toy libraries exist in some areas
- Give experiences instead of things