What to Keep and What to Toss

First-time moms have it made! I mean, really, think about it—with a new baby there’s absolutely no remorse for taking everything. Baby toys come in handy, clothes, diaper pails, bottles—you simply cannot go wrong. So how do we manage when a second or third baby comes into the picture? What do you keep? What do you get rid of? What aisle do you completely dodge when you go to the store? Fear not, my friend, keep reading and you’ll be a pro in no time.

Save where you can manage!

Now that you’re bringing an additional child into the world, saving is essential. It’s okay to feel guilty for a second but don’t wallow in remorse. Reusing things as a repeat parent is okay. Saving older bottles and replacing used nipples is a great way to save money. With a new baby coming and your current tots growing, your expenses will only grow. Do yourself a favor and save whenever and wherever you can manage.

Reusing things like old clothing is another great way to creatively save big bucks. Break out that old box of clothes you know your kids can’t fit anymore. Children seem to grow overnight, and even if you don’t have the old onesies, you’re sure to have a few old two-piece sets that will fit soon enough. If your kids aren’t the same gender, relax. Here’s your chance to get creative! Don’t be ashamed to do a bit of crafting. You’ll be surprised at all the iron-on patches and unique relics craft stores like Hobby Lobby and Michaels carry. It’ll be fun to remake a few things, and you’ll save oodles of cash.

Get rid of the shoes.

Let’s get real for a second here. How many babies wear shoes? Really, they’re just extra bits of clothing that we buy and babies kick off. Truly, your baby is far more comfortable in socks and, more than likely, will only be aggravated by having to wear those oddly shaped, often ugly, shoes. I know it may be hard to believe, but baby shoes aren’t really necessary. Ditch the sneaks and save the money.

Eighty-six the tub.

Don’t buy a baby tub and don’t recycle one. All in all, just don’t. Not only do they take up valuable space, but they accomplish little. In a baby tub, the baby is elevated out of the bath, the baby gets cold, and the baby really doesn’t clean up. You then end up picking up your baby and giving him a good wash. So cut out the baby tub. The baby is comfortable without it, and you ensure he’s clean! 

Consider the sitter.

Childcare options are key when bringing an additional child into your home. Services get more expensive, and quality packages seem to get smaller. If you come to a point of contention with a trusted caregiver, stick with the negotiation process. Good help is hard to find, and trust does not come easy. Where most first-time and often repeat parents fall short is in asking the right questions. If you have a trusted and reliable nanny, ask her about the different packages she offers. Ask about discount options for multiples. You can also ask your childcare provider about bartering. If you have a hobby or love for something nonmonetary, you can ask the nanny whether she would trade her service for your good or services. A lot of providers are open to the idea and looking for new and fresh ways to expand business. Be their push! You can achieve more than you think simply by asking the right questions. The worst she can say is no.

Put the blanket down.

Think carefully about buying any additional baby blankets or changing pads. If you buy more baby blankets, you may just end up with an overflowing linen closet or dresser. On the other hand, you might find extra blankets a handy substitute for changing pads. Most second-time parents end up using extra blankets to change the baby. It’s easier, it’s efficient and it’s more comfortable for the baby. Figure out what lightens your load and works for your family.   

Focus on the kids … there’s a light at the end of the tunnel.

It’s easy to get lost in the specifics, and it’s even easier to get lost in the prize of a new baby. While you’re preparing for your new arrival, love on all your little ones and treasure the time you have with them. You are not a bad parent if you get a little flustered and can’t manage to be in 12 places at once. It’s okay if you can’t remember your kids’ names (we all do it), and it’s okay to throw some old things away. And before your delivery if you have to think really think hard about whether you should keep or toss an item, hold onto it for the first few weeks with the new child. If you don’t use it, that’s usually your signal to toss it.

With the arrival of an additional baby, the flow of things will definitely be different, but you’ll get the hang of it. If you struggle, look to your support system, whether that be your partner, friends or family. They’ll give you the insight, love and support you need. None of us should go it alone.

Jessica Samuel lives in Kansas City and is a freelance writer and photographer.