Jenni Grover
DCL
From greener diapers to non-toxic baby bottles, there's no shortage of green "stuff" for your baby these days. We've even created a whole guide on how to green your baby. As an expectant father, I knew the process was going to be expensive, and that I was going to have to swallow my antipathy to buying new things - at least a little bit. But I wasn't prepared for quite how much stuff the modern baby apparently "needs".
Luckily there are plenty of ways to still cut back on consumption, even as you await the arrival of a newborn. Here are a few ideas - some of which I've done, and some of which I would do next time around:
Tips for Cutting Down on Baby Stuff
- Support Your Consignment Store: More than any other category, baby clothes and parenting equipment is discarded and discarded quickly - often in perfectly good condition. It makes sense really - most folks have a few kids and then have little use for the mountain of things left behind. We've found clothing, toys, and one of those vibrating chairs that a friend tells us is "essential."
- Ask for Hand-me-downs: From pack-n-plays to baby bottles to cloth diapers, we've picked up a ton of stuff from friends and relatives. Mostly these have been offered without asking - but it can't hurt to make a few hints...
- Keep Granny in Check: Everyone loves to buy stuff for babies - especially grandparents. And they especially love to buy cute little onesies. For the most part this is hugely welcome - and a great help in balancing the family budget. But if you find a friend or relative going overboard, don't be afraid to politely remind them that there's only so much room in a nursery...
- Give Permission to Buy Used: It's funny, everybody seems fine with hand-me-downs for their own kids - but feels weird about getting used items as gifts. Why not include a note in your baby shower invites letting people know that you are fine with pre-loved items.
- Look for Antiques: You don't need a dedicated changing table - we found a beautiful old dresser that is serving the purpose just fine. Obviously an antique crib might need to be looked at carefully to make sure it's safe - but use your judgment and you should be fine.
Need proof that it's possible to balance being green and still be a supportive partner and parent? See how Ed Begley, Jr. does it on Planet Green TV's Living with Ed.
