Kids Clothes: 7 Ways to Save Money

Children's clothing is an ongoing expense for every parent. There are, however, some great ways to save money on this necessity. Learn some different ways to stay within your clothing budget.

Kids seem to outgrow their clothes before ever wearing out their current wardrobe. You may feel like you are constantly getting rid of perfectly good items. Your children's pants may have looked great on the first day of school, but their ankles end up showing before Christmas.

The key to saving money is finding creative ways to still make use of what you have, while also saving money on replacements.

Make Use of Your Friends

The people you spend the most time with probably have kids, too. Make a deal with another mom to give each other the first choice of hand-me-downs. Combine the trading with a night of snacks and fun.

Look out for each other when you are out shopping. If either of you finds a good sale or clearance, offer to pick up some extras for the other.

Check the Racks Every Time

Do not limit your browsing to times when you need something. Check the kids' section even if you are at the store for another purpose. You may stumble upon a great sale or clearance. You may find the perfect clothing item or accessory without even trying. Odd-looking, leftover items are often great for costumes or special clothing days. Think about Halloween, silly sock day, or the school play when looking around.

Buy Out of Season and Ahead in Sizes

You know they are going to grow, feel free to plan ahead. Seasonal items will be marked down near the end of the current season. Purchase coats, swimsuits, and appropriate tops for the following year. A few extra sweatshirts may come in handy even in warmer weather. Kids are always asking for a jacket or sweater at the grocery store or mall when they feel cold. Long sleeve shirts also make great pajama tops all year round. Think ahead and think of different uses for the clothes on sale.

Find another Purpose

Outdoor summer fun calls for some clothes that can withstand some wear. Instead of sending your kids out to play in their good khakis, cut off the pants that have been outgrown. Kids often grow taller without gaining a lot of weight. Pants that still fit in the waist, especially denim, can be great for summer play. Old T-shirts can be cut up and used for dusting clothes or bedding for small pets. There are numerous crafting ideas on Pinterest for making bags and other accessories out of clothes. Throw pillows, patchwork blankets, and seat cushions can all be an artistic outlet for old clothes.

Change the Gender

Your son's old shirts may fit your daughter perfectly, but may not be very appealing. Plain shirts can be adorned with ribbons on the sleeves or be painted with a design. It is much easier to use a boy's clothing for a girl than vice versa. Most girls won't mind sleeping in an old t-shirt a couple of sizes too big and a pair of boy's sweat pants. Young children, especially, will love using fabric markers or paint to design a special piece of clothing.

Lower your Expectations

This tactic mainly applies to parents that expect too much of themselves. You do not have to have the perfect baby or toddler at mommy and me class. It is okay to let your kid run around in sweat pants on grocery shopping day. Your child's closet does not have to look like a kiddie boutique. Your child will benefit more if you save that money for college expenses instead of spending it on the giant bow for their hair. Go easy on yourself. Parenting is hard enough without trying to dress your kid like a supermodel. Focus on the necessities.

Buy Good Quality

It may feel like you are spending more money upfront, however, this tactic is great for some items. If your child lives in jeans, go ahead and splurge on a good pair. Teenagers are often selective about the type of clothes they will wear. A well-made pair of jeans will last through many washes and you need only buy one or two pairs. Shoes are also an important item to invest in. Kids are hard on their shoes. These are not usually passed down, so you be replaced. If you have three kids of the same gender, buy a quality winter coat that can be used by each of them over and over again.