Buying a new wardrobe for your kids each season change can be pretty tough on the budget. I have learned a few tricks that have helped make it easier to handle.
· If you have friends or family that don’t plan on having any more kids ask them what they plan on doing with their kid’s clothes? Chances are they would rather give them to you than a thrift store. My sister has given me many clothes that her daughter has worn. It’s nice to pay them something in exchange or give them a gift certificate. You’ll still be spending less than if you had bought everything brand new.
· Shop at second hand stores. You can often find great items for a lot less than department store prices. The downside is you might not find anything.
· Hit end of season sales. Most stores mark down their winter clothes the beginning of January and summer clothes in September. You can find items 50-75% off. Buy clothes for next year in a size larger than your child currently wears. You might not find everything but it’s a good start. This is also a great way to buy a coat for the next year. For example my sister just bought some toddler jeans at Old Navy for $2.50.
· If your child is constantly wearing out the knees on their pants buy them at Shopko. They have a kid tough guarantee on all of their clothes. As long as you bring your receipt in with the clothing item, which is torn or worn out, they will replace it for free. So make sure you save your receipt.
· Steer away from the mall and shop at stores like Walmart, Shopko, Target, and Kmart. They have all the latest styles at about half the price. For example you can buy a toddler shirt at Walmart for $2.00 a comparable item at a department store would cost at least $8.00. No one is going to be able to tell the difference unless they look at the tag.
· The exception to the above rule is when a department store is featuring 2 for the price of 1 sales or 1-Day sales. Mervyns often has great sales, especially on more dressy clothes, like dresses and suits.
· Compare store ads. Know the usual price charged for clothing items so you recognize a good deal when you see it.
For more ideas about how to save money visit the Frugal Living blog.