Family Budget

Looking to save on baby gear in 2026? Here’s a smart, safe guide to the best baby items you can buy used—without risking quality or safety.

Planning for a newborn can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to. This simple first-year budget guide breaks down costs, helps you prioritize essentials, and keeps your finances on track during baby’s first year.

Wondering what a baby really costs in 2026? This practical guide breaks down your baby’s first-year budget into low, mid, and high spending levels—covering diapers, feeding, gear, medical, and childcare (the biggest wild card).

A truly budget-friendly baby checklist for 2026: what you actually need for the first months, what you can skip, what to buy used safely, and how to avoid the biggest money traps.