by Claire Steinke, Soul Mothers | September 2024
Being eco-friendly doesn’t have to cost the earth. While the idea of going green might seem expensive, there are plenty of ways to adopt sustainable practices without breaking the bank. In fact, many environmentally conscious choices can actually save you money in the long run. From smart shopping to recycling and homemade solutions, we’ll take you through practical tips to reduce your environmental impact and your expenses.
Ways to save money without compromising on quality
With a little creativity and a willingness to embrace second-hand and community-driven options, you can provide your child with everything they need while staying kind to both your budget and the planet.
Accept Hand-Me-Downs
Don’t be shy about accepting hand-me-downs from friends or family. These items can be a huge money saver, and reusing them is a great way to reduce your environmental impact. Put the feelers out amongst family, friends and work colleagues for hand-me-down items such as clothing, toys, books, and even larger items like high chairs, prams, or cots. These gently-used items can help you avoid purchasing new products, saving both money and resources. For example, accepting a set of hand-me-down clothes could save you hundreds of dollars on a baby’s wardrobe; while borrowing a barely-used toy collection could provide months of entertainment without any additional cost. When you’re finished with these items, return them or consider passing them on to another family, continuing the cycle of reuse and sustainability.
Buy and Sell Preloved Baby Goods
If you haven’t considered buying preloved items before, now is the perfect time to start. Babies outgrow clothes and gear so quickly that many items are barely used. Platforms like Marketplace, Gumtree, eBay, and local parenting groups are gold mines for gently used baby clothes, furniture, and larger items like prams, cots, and car seats. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also reduce the demand for new products, which in turn reduces environmental impact.
Always thoroughly check items for safety, especially cots, car seats, and prams before making your purchases.
Tip: Before purchasing second-hand car seats, be sure to check their expiration date. Car seats typically expire 10 years from the manufacture date, which is stamped on the label. Ensure the seat will still be safe and effective for the duration you plan to use it.
Selling your preloved baby items is equally important. Once your child outgrows their clothes, toys, or furniture, resell them to recoup some of your expenses and give those items a second life. It takes a bit of effort to photograph and list items, but the rewards are twofold: you’ll put money back in your pocket and help another eco-conscious family.
Join Buy, Swap, and Sell Groups
Community-based buy, swap, and sell groups, whether on Facebook or through local organisations, are excellent sources for finding and trading second-hand goods. These groups often allow you to swap items directly, making it possible to exchange what you no longer need for something that will benefit your family.
Visit Baby and Kids Markets
Baby and kids markets are treasure troves of second-hand bargains. You can find these markets advertised on Facebook, websites, in local papers and magazines, or through community groups. They offer a wide range of gently used baby and children’s items at great prices. If you have an excess of baby goods, consider taking a stall at one of these markets to clear out your items and earn some extra cash.
Toy Swaps and Toy Libraries: Keep Playtime Fresh
Children can quickly lose interest in their toys, so why not organise a toy swap with your mum’s group? Regularly exchanging toys within your circle not only keeps playtime exciting but also reduces the need to purchase new toys constantly. Just make sure all toys are clean and sanitised before swapping.
Joining a toy library is another fantastic way to refresh your child’s toy collection without spending money on new items. Borrow toys that match your child’s current developmental stage and return them when they’re ready for something new. This not only helps the environment but also keeps your home from becoming overrun with toys.
Consider your purchases carefully
Sometimes, buying second-hand isn’t an option. When buying new, it’s essential to think long-term and choose items that will stand the test of time. By investing in high-quality, sustainable products, you’re not only making an eco-friendly choice but also saving money in the long run.
Make Smart Choices When Buying New
When you need to buy new, focus on choosing quality products that are built to last—especially if you’re planning to have more children. This approach applies to everything from bed sheets, blankets, and baby sleeping bags to furniture, prams, car seats, and even clothing. By making smart purchases and storing items properly, you can extend their use across multiple children.
If you’re expecting, consider creating a baby gift registry with a store that offers eco-friendly products. This way, you can ensure you receive the items you truly need, while avoiding the accumulation of gifts that may go unused. A registry also allows you to select specific, sustainable options that align with your eco-friendly values, making it easier for loved ones to support your goals.
Sustainable Furniture: Invest in Longevity
When it comes to preparing for your baby’s arrival or upgrading as your child moves through developmental stages, furniture is a big-ticket item. Choosing sustainable furniture made from plantation timber is an excellent way to minimise environmental impact. Plantation timber is grown specifically for furniture production, meaning no forests are harmed in the process. Additionally, these trees are replaced and regrown after harvest, ensuring a continuous cycle of sustainability.
Take it a step further by selecting convertible furniture. Look for cots that transform from a bassinet to a cot, then to a toddler bed, and eventually into a table and chairs. This versatility can make a single piece of furniture can last for five years or more, longer if you plan to use it for subsequent children.
Eco-Habits: Small Changes, Big Impact
Adopting eco-friendly habits can significantly reduce your environmental footprint while also benefiting your budget. From feeding choices to nappy know-how, these simple changes can make a world of difference in both your household expenses and your impact on the planet.
Breastfeed: A Natural and Budget-Friendly Option
Breastfeeding is another eco-friendly and budget-friendly choice for feeding your baby. While formula is a safe and effective alternative, it comes with a cost. A single tin of formula, priced around $30, lasts approximately a week, which totals at least $750 in the first six months of life.
Breastfeeding can save you this expense, but it’s not always easy. While 95% of new mums initiate breastfeeding, many give up sooner than planned due to difficulties that could be overcome with the right support. Planning ahead by gathering breastfeeding support resources during pregnancy can be invaluable. Free assistance is available through your local maternal and child health service, the hospital where you gave birth, or the Australian Breastfeeding Association who offer support through their 24 hour on 1800 636 636.
Embrace Modern Cloth Nappies
Join the reusable nappy revolution by investing in modern cloth nappies (MCNs). Although the initial cost may seem steep, the long-term savings are undeniable. An adjustable MCN that grows with your child from newborn to toddler stage, costs around $24.95. You’ll need about 24 nappies, which brings the total initial outlay to $600. However, these nappies can last two to three years, depending on how long your child is in nappies.
In contrast, disposable nappies cost around $39 per box of 108. With an average of eight changes per day, the total cost for the first two years is approximately $2,102—nearly four times the cost of MCNs. That’s a potential saving of $1500 over two years.
When choosing MCNs look for those made with bamboo, cotton or hemp, as these natural fibres break down easily. In contrast, disposable nappies take up to 150 years to decompose, creating significant landfill waste. The savings and environmental benefits of MCNs make them a smart choice for eco-conscious parents.
For even greater savings, consider traditional cloth nappy squares. A full set costs less than $100, but they do require more time and effort to fold and secure. MCNs are more convenient, which is why they’ve gained popularity.
Homemade Baby Food: Healthy and Cost-Effective
Making your own baby food is a budget-friendly and eco-friendly alternative to buying pre-packaged options. Puree and freeze fruits and vegetables in advance to ensure a steady supply of nutritious meals. This not only saves money but also reduces packaging waste.
Opt for glass containers for storage as they are BPA-free and safe to use in the microwave, dishwasher, and freezer. You can also prepare family meals and freeze portions for those busy days when cooking feels like a daunting task. This way, your family can still enjoy healthy, home-cooked meals without resorting to takeout, not only saving money but reducing packaging.
Garden with Your Kids: Grow Your Own Food
Gardening may not be for everyone, but it’s a fantastic way to teach your kids about nature and sustainability. Growing your own food can be incredibly rewarding, and kids love watching plants grow and harvesting the fruits of their labour.
Starting a garden is relatively cheap —a packet of seeds and a pot are all you need to begin and this will cost you around $10. Plus, gardening is a fun, educational activity that channels your child’s energy while fostering a love for the environment. And there’s nothing quite like the joy of eating your own homegrown produce.
Embracing eco-friendly parenting doesn’t have to strain your budget. By making thoughtful choices about what you buy, reuse, and create, you can significantly reduce your environmental impact while saving money. Remember, every small step counts towards a more sustainable future for your family and the planet. Start with the practices that resonate most with you, and gradually incorporate more as you become comfortable. Your wallet – and the environment – will thank you.
About the Author
Claire Steinke is a solo-mum to two, now teenagers and owner of Soul Mothers, that supports mums and mums-to-be on their eco-parenting journey. Budgeting as a solo mum has been essential to manage on a simple income, so Claire has created many budget and eco-friendly habits to make her dollars go further. In her spare time, Claire can be found in the garden tending to vegies and shooing her cheeky chooks out of the garden beds.