7 Tips for Saving Money on Your Kids Clothes 

Yes, you can save money, have a neater closet, and love everything your child wears!

Kids grow so fast and seasons change before you know it. We all want to dress our kids well, but it can be a challenge to do this on a budget. Thankfully there are some simple ways to help you save money while still dressing your kids well. 

Find the Minimalist in You

* This tip is all about paring down your child’s wardrobe to include only clothing that they really need and use. This will look different for everyone, and there is no right number of clothes when creating a minimalist wardrobe. It will vary based on your lifestyle, laundry system, budget and many other factors. 

Before I became a minimalist, my kids’ drawers were overflowing with clothes that didn’t fit, we didn’t need, or even like. At that point, it was time to sort through and see what to save, donate or throw away. For my family, I have found 4 weekday outfits (2 for uniform-clad girls), 2 Shabbos outfits, and 3 pairs of pajamas to be what works for us. There’s no right number, it’s all about what works for you. The idea is that you are intentional with what you are purchasing. That might mean you can spend more to get better quality pieces that you absolutely love putting on your children each day. This is the best tip for those who prefer current season clothing. 

Take Inventory of What You Already Have

* Once you’ve made your list of what your child needs, feel free to take inventory of what you already own. Yes, that might mean finding the bag in the attic with all the boys’ pajamas or reaching into a siblings drawer to see what they have outgrown and can be passed down. This may save you a couple of bucks by not having to buy what you already own.

Shop End of Season for Next Year

* This is for those of you that enjoy a bit of risk taking. I have found this to work very well only with specific brands that I know have the right cut for my kids. I will often buy one size up for the next season at 70% off or more. If they wear the same brands year to year, just one size up, it’s not a gamble. This way I end up getting beautiful quality clothing for way less than I would at the start of the season. One warning when attending sales: don’t buy for the current season if you don’t need it, even though it’s “so cheap!” 

Stock Up on Basics

* When you find something at a really great price, it’s a good idea to buy a few sizes ahead and have it when you need it. This works well for Natives, rain boots, sweatshirts, and pajamas. 

Buy Used

* This is not for everyone and that’s fine. Know yourself and if you can handle it, you can get some beautiful pieces at a great price. There are local shops and plenty of online platforms that sell pre-owned clothing at a huge discount. Specifically, I have been successful buying pre-owned designer coats and simcha wear.

Embrace Hand-Me-Downs

* Find a cousin, neighbor, or sister-in-law, with a child somewhat older than yours. There are people who love to buy better clothing and are thrilled to pass it along. This way you can get a whole pre-loved (often high quality) wardrobe for the new season for free! Thanks Bracha!!

Shop Stores that Sell Last Years’ Merchandise

* If you’re less of a risk taker and don’t want anything used, there are local stores that bring in brand new merchandise that was not sold from the previous season and sell at 50% off retail value. This has been my life saver and allowed me to dress my kids well without breaking the bank. 

I hope you found some of these tips helpful! Please share your best tips in the comments below.