Mrs. Money: Save Money on Maternity Clothes

One of my best friends just found out she's pregnant, and enlisted me in helping her find maternity clothes on the cheap.  It's overwhelming when you stop and think about all the stuff you need for pregnancy, and then for the baby!  Luckily, there are ways you can save money on pretty much everything, and maternity clothes are no exception.  Here's how we saved big bucks on maternity clothes.

• Shop yard sales and Craigslist.  Many people will advertise that they are selling maternity clothes at yard sales, and of course you can always search on Craigslist for maternity clothes.  My friend's mom went to a yard sale, bought her some maternity clothes, and then asked the person to call her when the sale was over.  They ended up giving her four garbage bags full of clothes for free because they were going to donate them!


• Shop thrift stores.  Thrift stores always have new clothing coming in, so you'll probably have to stop in more regularly than if you were going to yard sales, but it is definitely worth it when you find clothes that are cute and fit for a cheap price.


• Don't forget eBay.  Buying maternity clothes off eBay may sound weird, but we found that when we did, there were a lot more options than if we looked on Craigslist.  Of course, you will have to pay shipping, but when you compare that to a retail price of $36 for one pair of maternity pants at the store, you'll be glad you shopped online. 


• Borrow clothes from friends.  Often times maternity clothes are in great shape because they are only worn for around six months.  If you're in a mommy group, you can also ask the moms there if they are willing to let you borrow or even buy their clothes.

Pregnancy doesn't have to be expensive if you are creative.  How did you save money on maternity clothes?

Mrs. Money writes at the Ultimate Money Blog, where she shares tips on frugal living, how to live green, and living a simpler life.