How to Get Free Baby Stuff: Diapers, Clothes and More

Preparing for a new baby requires a lot of time and effort. There are books to read, nurseries to decorate and supplies to stock up on. Unfortunately, all of that can take a lot of money, too.

On the bright side, there are strategies you can use to cut costs — or better yet, eliminate them. Here’s how to get free baby stuff, including diapers, wipes and clothing.

1. Build a registry

Even if you don’t plan on having a baby shower, making a registry can be a simple way to score freebies. This usually involves creating an account, entering your due date and adding the products you want.

The more gifts friends and family purchase, the less you’ll have to buy yourself. As a bonus, many retailers and baby registry websites offer gifts or samples to those who register with them.

At Buybuy Baby stores, you get a $25 gift card for completing a consultation with a registry expert. Once $100 in purchases have been made from your registry, you get a one-time 15% discount code good for anything on your list. At Target, sign up for a free Target Circle account and populate your registry with at least 10 items. Once there’s been $10 of spending on registry items, you’ll get a coupon for a free welcome kit containing more than $100 worth of samples and coupons.

2. Use community marketplaces

Connecting with your neighbors can help you save money on baby gear. You can often find new or secondhand strollers, onesies and other items for free through online networks such as Nextdoor, Craigslist and Facebook groups or through “buy nothing” groups.

For safety and sanitary reasons, avoid certain used items, like car seats, crib mattresses and pacifiers. And before you take a product, do a quick online search to make sure it hasn’t been recalled.

A word of caution: Never arrange a meetup with strangers in a private or secluded place. For your protection, meet at a safe trade station, such as a local police station, instead. This can reduce your chances of becoming a victim of theft — or worse.

3. Register for rewards programs and free trials

Visit manufacturers’ websites to request free samples of diapers, wipes, formula and other supplies. You can often get these items sent to you simply for joining loyalty programs and email lists, but watch the fine print to ensure you’re not committing to a subscription service you’d  have to cancel.

For example, the Pampers Rewards program uses a mobile app. Scan a code on diaper and wipe packages you buy to get “cash” to redeem for savings on Pampers products.

4. Scout out yard sales

Look for yard and garage sales in your area. You may occasionally find boxes filled with gently used baby clothes and products for cheap, or sometimes free for the taking. If you stop by a sale toward the end of the day, ask the host for any leftover items they’re willing to give away.

5. Ask insurance and health care providers

Your health insurance benefits may include more than prenatal appointments and labor and delivery. Under the Affordable Care Act, most plans are required to cover the cost of a breast pump. But there may be restrictions on the type of pump and where you get it from, so make sure to call your provider for details.

Some hospitals also send mothers home with items such as nasal aspirators, blankets and bottles after delivery. Before you head out, ask what you can take.

6. Reach out to religious groups and nonprofits

Many religious organizations and other nonprofit organizations provide resources for families in need. Don’t know where to start? You can call 2-1-1, which is supported by United Way, or visit 211.org to locate food, child care and other services in your community.

7. Ask friends and family for hand-me-downs