***Collaborative post***
When it comes to baby gear, things can be pretty pricey. To keep your budget in check, here are 16 ways to get your hands on heaps of free baby stuff.
Your baby embraces everything that is adorable, but also everything that is expensive. Thank goodness there is plenty of free baby stuff ready and waiting to be used – all you need to know is how to get your hands on it. There are a lot of websites for baby and new mum freebies, notes that being a new mum entitles you to plenty of free things for your baby’s needs, including formula samples, coupons and diapers.
Below you will find the top 16 ways to get yourself these great freebies
Asking For Samples, Means Getting Samples
Hospitals and doctors get an abundance of free samples for patient use. Ask what samples are available or check the waiting room for displays. We suggests new mums asks for samples when they are at the hospital.
Make Use of New Parent Packs
We suggest making direct calls to companies and asking for a new parent pack. As well as the pack, a lot of companies will also send out coupons for their products, hoping that you will become a new customer.
Sign-Up To Newsletters
You can get high-value coupons, discount codes, free stuff and free samples are offered by many companies. Since a lot of the offers have limited numbers, signing up to newsletters lets you be one of the first to learn about a new deal, increasing your chance of getting your hands on it, we recommend MegaFreeStuff who offer lots of baby free stuff and samples.
Look Out For Sales and Coupons
If there’s a baby item that you simply must have, then collect email, website and paper coupons to make it yours. Look out for sales and, when possible, use a coupon-sale combination.
Make Use of Rewards Programs
Diaper manufacturers, as well as other companies, have reward programs for people who shop often with them. Choose one brand and stick with them, making sure you register points as you shop for free diapers and other items.
Blog and Request
Amanda Vega, founder of 3 Peas Baby Marketing, recommends setting up a blog, then reaching out to companies directly and asking for samples in exchange for reviews. Amanda herself works with clients who are keen to spread the word about their new baby gear, food or bottles.
Go To Conventions and Shows
For new parents who want the latest in baby gear, baby expos are the place to be. In major cities there is usually a minimum of one baby expo a year so keep your eyes peeled for the closest one to you.
Take Part in Surveys
Getting free baby stuff is also possible by taking part in marketing surveys. Granted you may not have enough free time to participate in a long survey, but even one that takes just a couple of minutes may give you a free product at the end of it.
Help Out With Market Research
You can receive free baby items, or even cash, if you take part in market research. To get started, find a reputable firm and get your name registered on their database.
Recycle Everything Possible
Baby Earth, as well as other recycling companies, will often send gift certificates that you can use on their online store, if you send them your used baby gear.
Look Out For Sweepstakes and Contests
The majority of baby-focused websites have sweepstakes or contests running, usually with a great giveaway at the end of it. You do need to devote a little time to entering, but you can land yourself some really hip gear.
Do a Swap
Offer to swap baby items that your baby doesn’t use, or uses rarely. You may be able to start an arrangement with other mums in your area who are also keen to swap baby gear and toys on a regular basis.
Subscribe To Magazines
When you subscribe to a magazine you are often treated to a tote bag, a coupon or a different magazine.
Say Yes To Hand Me Downs
It’s time to make use of your social circle. Toddlers grow very fast in their first year, meaning some clothes may only have had a couple of wears, or none ta all, meaning you receive it in excellent condition.
Join Mum Groups
Fun activities for mum and baby are often sponsored by local groups. Use the opportunity to get you and baby away from home, meeting new people and possibly coming home with freebies.
Entertainment Freebies and Travel Deals
A lot of airlines will let your toddler of up to 2 years travel for free on your lap. ‘Kids go free’ promotions are also on offer by resorts and cruise lines. Disney World and other amusement parks offer free admission for under 3’s, so try to plan your vacation for before your child’s birthday.
You need to put in time and effort to get your hands on free baby stuff, but it is out there for the taking. What you’re going to pay for a particular item can vary greatly from one day to another, so make a habit of checking in regularly on your favourite spots for free baby gear.
