Samples

I've mentioned before that we have 4 children, the first 2 of which were twins (I know... and yet we had 2 more). The cost of a baby during the first year can be expensive enough, but make that first baby a two-headed (or 3 or 4 for those with super twins) monster and the costs can add up quick! Regardless of whether you have 1 little precious or multiples, here's a tip that may help you lower the costs of the first year.

Every time we go to the pediatrician, we always ask for samples. There have been many times when we have left with containers of powdered or ready-to-eat formula or a sample size bottle of children's Tylenol. Regardless of what the sample items are, it costs money to buy those items at the store, so samples will always cut costs.

In my opinion, the same applies to samples for the rest of the family, as well. There are several sites where you can get samples of things for baby, lotions, soaps, shampoo, etc. The ladies over at  Money Saving Mom and Faithful Provisions, to name just a couple, are fantastic about letting you know when samples are available on a variety of products. I have started registering for these and I keep them in our travel bag. This way, I save money on purchasing sample size products and always have them at the ready, when Financial Guy tells me he's taking me on a week long trip to Hawaii... well, a girl can dream, can't she?? :)

Next time you visit your doctor, ask him or her for samples if you're prescribed medication or even if it's just general items you might have to purchase for your child. That's why they have them! Save on, friends!