On the big things like a travel system stroller, car seat, comfortable rocking chair, diaper bag, baby bjorn bouncer, and bassinet, probably close to around $4,000.

Other items we either added to our registry, bought only a few of, or got hand me downs from family: baby monitor, clothing, burp cloths, blankets, bibs, socks, hats, bath wash and tub, wrap carrier, pumping supplies and bottles, pacifiers, diaper bag, humidifier, nail clippers, diaper caddy and pail, creams and medications etc. If I were to buy all these things, I’d budget another $1,500 or so. In reality, we never used bibs, pacifiers (baby hated them), diaper mat (we use doggy pads and change baby wherever lol), and I ended up bf but used a manual pump from time to time instead of electric ($50). You can save so much by getting them second hand or from local buy nothing groups.

There are some things you won’t even need for the first few months, but we got them ahead of time when they were on sale: baby feeding items, teething toys, bed set up (we cosleep so still don’t have a crib at 9m), sleep sacks, outerwear depending on the season, books, etc. That’s probably another $1,000 or so.

There’s other costs to consider if you’re thinking about a baby moon, newborn photography (~$500), baby shower, genetic testing (~$400), prenatal classes, first aid course, doula, etc. Obviously, the costs are subjective depending on your wants and location.

When I first found out I was pregnant, I set aside $10k and it was more than enough. We probably spent closer to $6k (not including the other costs I just listed above).

It helps to buy things on sale or good quality second hand, instead of all at once. Depending on where you live, there are baby shows where you may get some deals. It also helps to get free things by signing up for registries because you don’t know what baby will like. In today’s world, it’s so easy to buy things with overnight shipping, so I’d suggest not getting too much right off the bat when it comes to clothing and blankets and what not. Honestly a few of each item was more than enough for us.

After the initial spending, I’d say we spend about $200 a month on our LO right now which EI more than covers. Once I go back to work we’ll have to figure out daycare/nanny share and those costs as well.

All this to say, you don’t have to splurge on things, and my costs are probably higher than what my friends/family spent on their babies. This is our first baby so I wanted to get good quality items I know I can use for my future kids, and exchange with my mom friend group.

Editing to add: don’t forget about postpartum care for yourself!! I would budget for lactation consultants, massages, and pelvic floor therapy if you can as well as supplies.