working out finances

[HelenRosie]

HI, I'm planning on ttc in the new year and trying to plan my finances.

Does anyone know of any lists/spreadsheets of things to consider so I know I'm fully prepared financially?

thanks

Hello. The only lists I have seen have been the lists of things to buy in the Mothercare catalogue and other retailers catalogues and probably on the babycentre website too. I found Mothercare's list generally sensible. On top of first baby things you will need to consider increase in grocery spend for nappies and wipes ~£10 a week if using pampers etc., formula and bottles (if you are going to use them) and associated paraphenalia , although breastfeeding is supposed to save you £500 a year. From experience, loads of things can be bought cheaply new or second hand or borrowed/donated by a friend. Make sure you get the big things right like the pushchair or travel system and you need a new car seat and mattress for safety and health and hygiene reasons. Don't be tempted into buying loads of new baby clothes if you have friends and family, just buy simple white vests and sleep suits. People will buy you far more than you need. Try and save money every month until the baby is born, this will help pad out your maternity pay which is hard to live on once it dips below £500 after any contributions. Try and clear credit cards and other financial commitments too. Good luck.x

And once you have decided what you need:

Join your local freecycle group (search on line) for free stuff.

Look on the NCT website for nearly-new sales near you. I went to a sale at the weekend and was amazed at the bargains! If i'd known if i was having a boy or girl i could have got so much stuff!

Reusable nappies are much cheaper in the long term than disposable ones, even taking into account the cost of washing them. Try www.thenappylady.co.uk for personalised recommendations for you.

Baby wipes not necessary, apparently cotton wool and warm water are sufficient (so says my sil, i am still pregnant so have no personal experience).

I think what i'm trying to say is, there are loads of ways to save money. I know that doesn't exactly answer your question - hope someone else will do that!

Hope ttc doesn't take long x

Ebay is your friend. I have snapped up hordes of things during this pregnancy, a lot of it brand new/hardly used too. Things like Moses Basket stands and lampshades and baby gates really do not have to be brand new!