There are lots of ways to cut back on spending, even with a baby on board! To begin with, consider cost-effective alternative to your essentials. Disposable diapers are definitely less hassle, but cloth ones are significantly cheaper (roughly a quarter of the cost when you factor in accessories and how often you’re changing them). Opt out of expensive diaper changing pads and use a less expensive mat, maybe even one you have on hand already that is waterproof and easy to wipe down. With babies outgrowing their clothing so quickly, opt for a few important staple pieces (t-shirts and pajamas especially) in their current size and wash them often. Newborns are still processing much of the world around them, so there’s no need for fancy toys for a few months. And when you do purchase toys, simple toys such as something to shake (a rattle) and something they can grasp (a soft doll or stuffed animal) are often sufficient enough to still be developmentally beneficial. There are also lots of online groups you can join wherein families give away their old baby items as long as you pay for shipping costs on it. Just make sure you always sterilize toys and other objects that might wind up in baby’s mouth.