Shopping for baby gear while on a budget
Parents looking for deals on big-ticket items should do research ahead of time
When a tiny human is about to burst onto the scene, job No.1for parents is making sure they’ve got the necessary gear.
It’s all new moms and dads can think about, really. Especially in those last few pre-baby months when finding the perfect crib, stroller, car seat, swing and a host of other baby-related items becomes a household obsession.
And while it may seem there’s always something else the little cherub needs, you needn’t pay through the nose for said items — especially with Black Friday looming.
Here’s expert advice on how to score a great deal on baby gear. First things first: Do your research According to Sharon Vinderine, Vaughan-based founder and CEO of Parent Tested Parent Approved (ptpa.com), the most important thing you can do before you shop is to plan your strategy.
“Make a list and do your due diligence in finding out what the average prices are for the gear you need, both in stores and online. Know ahead of time what you’d expect to pay before Black Friday arrives so when sales start to roll out, you can make an informed decision as to whether or not you’re actually getting a deal,” she says. Conduct an in-store test-drive “I find most parents want to see and feel products they’re thinking about purchasing before they commit, and the chaos of Black Friday isn’t always conducive to allowing that process to happen organically,” Vinderine says.
For tactile shoppers, she suggests doing an in-store visit before you buy, if only to ensure the quality of your would-be purchase meets all of your and your little one’s needs. Go online for big savings Amazon.ca is a mecca for savings on all manner of gear — baby and otherwise — as are sites such as walmart.ca and toysrus.ca, Vinderine says.
“There are so many options available to consumers, so take your time looking through the sites of brands and retailers you like and trust, and where possible, keep an open mind about buying items that are out of season, yet still things your child is likely to need or enjoy as they grow.”
This is the time of year when sizable discounts happen on outdoor toys and play sets, she says, so consider snagging an item or two if the price is right.
Additionally, before you buy, Vinderine advises researching the site’s return and exchange policies, ensuring you’re not paying for shipping (many brands offer this no-fee service year round, while others make exceptions on Black Friday to attract buyers), and noting that the quality of discounted Black Friday items such as strollers, cribs and car seats may not always be, well, stellar.
“That’s not to say you won’t find a great option from a great brand, but keep in mind that big gear is often put on sale in order to make room for more inventory, and that doesn’t necessarily mean the quality of these items will be high.” Check tech Consider downloading store apps (Walmart, Best Buy and Toys “R” Us all have them) for last-minute savings, as well as apps such as ShopSavvy, which updates users on deals from a variety of popular stores. The latter can also be used to scan barcodes to help locate which stores offer the lowest price on whatever items you’re scouting.
And if you aren’t yet familiar with Ebates.ca, now’s the time.
“Beyond offering coupons and discounts on a variety of items big and small, you have the opportunity to earn money back when you make a purchase through the site, which is an amazing benefit and shoppers would really be remiss not to take advantage of it — especially with the holidays quickly approaching.” Keep your wits about you “The madness that accompanies Black Friday makes it the perfect day to make impulse decisions on a purchase, and retailers are counting on that,” Vinderine says.
To avoid buyer’s remorse, stay focused on your shopping list, don’t get caught up by an impressive sale, and when in doubt, always choose quality.
“One thing I always say to consumers who are unsure of which option to choose in an industry bombarded with selection, is pay attention to the products winning awards.
“If you’re shopping on Black Friday and there are two great products available for a similar price and one’s been given an award, they’ve won it for good reason and that’s the one to go with.”
“(If) there are two great products available for a similar price and one’s been given an award, they’ve won it for good reason and that’s the one to go with.” SHARON VINDERINE FOUNDER AND CEO PARENT TESTED PARENT APPROVED