How to save and make make money on baby items

Canadian parents spend thousands on their babies — close to $8,000 in extra expenses in little one's first year alone. But how much money could they save if they steered clear of baby items that are a total waste of money?

A lot, says Danielle Connelly, mother of two and Head Deal Hunter at Mother of a Deal.

"It's easy to get caught up in the excitement of having a baby and all the cute stuff that goes along with nesting and getting ready for your big arrival, but that can quickly overextend any budget you've set for yourself," she says. With a little restraint and some creativity and knowledge, it's easier than you might think to save big."

Scratch these things off your list

If you're on a budget, and, as Connelly points out, with a baby on the way you probably will be, stick with the basics. "Don't get caught up in all the latest trends."

• A fancy, expensive diaper bag. A good backpack works just as well.

• Change table. "A countertop space in our bathroom with a cheap contoured change pad worked amazingly well, and the bed, floor, and couch worked too." You'll save space and money.

• Gadgets. Things like wipe warmers and bottle warmers aren't must-haves, and their costs can start to add up.

• Expensive crib bedding. "A good fitted sheet and a simple blanket work just fine. Save the money for when your child gets bigger and starts to care what her room decor looks like."

• High chair. "You can save a lot of time and money with a good booster seat with a tray that sets baby right up at the table with the rest of the family. Many high chairs are just big, oversized space wasters."

• Trendy baby clothes "Once again, save the money for when you little one turns into a big one who starts caring about what clothing he will or will not wear."

Remember you'll be getting all sorts of stuff at baby showers. "Be practical with your shower list. Things like a good baby carrier, a swing or Jolly Jumper, or cloth diapers if you're going that route are great to add to your wish list."

Buy second-hand

Babies outgrow their stuff, and almost everything you need — baby bath tubs, toys, mobiles for the crib, clothes, strollers, slings and more -- can be purchased second-hand, at consignment and thrift stores, yard sales, and via sites like Craigslist and Kijiji.

"A lot of first-time moms worry about the cleanliness of buying used, but you can still be choosey even with second-hand, and you can clean and sanitize items yourself when you get them home."

That's not to say that expecting Moms shouldn't be careful of risks associated with some second-hand items. Be cautious when buying second-hand car seats and cribs. Car seats have expiry dates, and safety standards for cribs have changed a lot over the years. Check for recall notices, too.

Unload your stuff when you're done with it

• Sites like Craigslist or Kijiji. eBay is another one, as long as you don't mind dealing with shipping.

• Swap meets. "Tables go for as little as $25. Just be sure to organize, clean, and price your items. If you have a lot of smaller items consider selling them in 'lots' as opposed to individually."

• Post notices at moms' meet-up groups or on Facebook

• Consignment stores

• Freecycle "This is a good place to unload unwanted items and keep them out of the landfill."

Donate

"Selling can be tedious and not worth it if you have a lot of smaller items. There are many organizations that are happy to accept donations of gently used baby items."

Consider religious groups, women's shelters, thrift stores, and organizations that pick up and distribute items for free to people in need.