In a few weeks, I’ll be learning the gender of my second child. My firstborn is a delightful little girl, and even though we attempted to refrain from imposing gender stereotypes, we ended up with an inordinate amount of pink items. Should we be welcoming a boy next, I can already see potential expenses looming as there would be a need for an entirely new set of wardrobe and some other basic complements. I’m confident I’m not the only mother facing such circumstances. Hence, here are my thoughts on economizing when expecting a child of a different gender:
1. Acceptable Gender-Nonconformity: I don’t have any intention of dressing a potential son in hand-me-down dresses. However, there’s absolutely no issue if he uses a pink car seat or rocker. These items won’t be noticed by many, and considering the pace at which babies usually outgrow their stuff, it’s not economical to purchase new ones. The same principle applies to baby girls reusing items typically associated with boys, which will most likely go unnoticed.
2. Item Exchange: Try and see if any of your friends or people in your social media groups are willing to swap items. For instance, it wouldn’t hurt to ask if anyone is open to trading your pink butterfly bassinet for a more masculine variant.
3. Consignment: If swapping isn’t an option, you can consider selling your baby gear at a consignment store. Opting for payment in store credit can fetch you higher value and aid in purchasing needed items.
4. Buying in Bulk: If I’m indeed expecting a baby boy, I do have two family members I can borrow clothes from. However, the birth seasons will not match, and hence I may need to purchase some clothes. To save money, I plan to look for bulk baby boy clothes on platforms like Craigslist, eBay, or Facebook marketplace. Buying clothes in a bulk lot can cost you anywhere from 25 cents to a dollar per piece, which is far more affordable than buying individual pieces in a consignment store or thrift shop.
5. Consider Another Shower: Some might argue it’s inappropriate to have another baby shower, particularly if you’ve already had one. But if someone wishes to host one for you, it’s not a problem. Many moms will empathize with your need for more diapers and clothes. Don’t let unsolicited opinions stop you from celebrating your second child with a baby shower. If you’re concerned about what your family or friends might think, consider inviting those who couldn’t make it to your first shower, like church friends or co-workers.
So, if it turns out that this little one due early next year is a boy, don’t be surprised if you hear about him napping in a pink room with pink damask bedding for a while. This wouldn’t be a reflection of my indifference towards his gender identity, but rather a practical approach, given he won’t even notice for the initial few years of his life. It makes sense to save the money for more important things.
Did you also find yourself spending considerably when your second child was of a different gender?
