*A collaborative post
Being on maternity leave is brilliant. It’s great to spend all day with your new baby; getting to know them, enjoying their firsts, taking time to do new things together likes a baby massage class or make new friends but there’s one thing that most Mums can resonate with, we have to do it on a budget. If you had a job prior to having your baby, you’ll no doubt be on a limited budget and the family finances need to be carefully considered. Here’s five ways to save money whilst you’re on maternity leave.
Set a budget
Most employers will set out how much maternity pay you’ll be entitled to throughout the duration of your maternity leave. Using their guidance you can work out how much money you’ll pick up each month allowing you to roughly work out how much is coming into the household funds. Setting a budget each month allows you to work out where you can spend money and if you need to save some. Perhaps you don’t need to spend so much on petrol now you’re at home with the baby and won’t be doing the daily commute.
Sell unwanted possessions
Whilst you’re at home, it’s the perfect opportunity to have a clear out of all those things you no longer need. As they say one mans rubbish is another mans treasure so you could sell on all those good quality maternity clothes, items you’ve been gifted but no longer require, outgrown shoes, maybe it’s time to let go of those high heel shoes or collection of bags and matching purses. Ebay is a good way to sell to those further away whilst Facebook groups tend to be buyers from nearer to home.
Buy in bulk
We all know that babies grow fast so saving money on buying cheap baby clothes in bulk can help. Items such as vests, bibs and muslins are rarely seen and can be easily soiled so it’s not worth spending a fortune on them. Supermarkets often have baby events on too with deals on vests, baby grows, baby booties and bibs.
Use utilities late at night
It always amazes me how something so small can make so much washing. The washing basket is never empty but dependant on your energy supplier you could save money by using the washing machine late at night. This might be the right time to investigate switching suppliers too to see if you can save some money.
Meal plan
One of the ways in which we are trying to save money is by meal planning each week. Writing a list of all the meals you’re going to cook throughout the week and then food shopping to reflect your meal plan can reduce the risk of you wanting to buy a take away or eat out. If you’ve got the food in the fridge already, you’ll want to get your moneys worth and not let it go to waste. You could also take advantage of any BOGOF offers in the supermarket and incorporate these into your meal plans.
There are lots of ways to save money on maternity leave, it just takes a bit of planning, a bit of effort and you’ll reap the rewards to help stretch the pennies.
Debs | Tiger Mint says
Thanks for these tips!
Debs @ https://tiger-mint.com
mummywho says
Good list! I’m currently on maternity leave and probably could have done with this at the start.
Kay xx