Shopping for Kids Clothes

You all know that kids clothes can be very expensive, especially when they seem to grow out of them every other day. Here are my recommendations for saving money on this expense.

1. Make a list of basic needs. Create a list of basic wardrobe needs (number of pants, number of shirts, etc). These are the items that you HAVE to have to dress your kids. Don't be too stingy, but don't go overboard either. make sure the list includes items you need for your regular activities (school, sports, church, etc).
2. Keep a list of items you need. It helps to have a list of clothing items you need for the coming year. Start with your basic wardrobe list, and make sure the list has a quantity for each item. Keep this list in your purse or car, essentially carry it with you, so if you are ever out shopping and you find a good deal, you know what you need.
3. Shop clearance racks. Scour the racks at your local department and discount stores. You can find great deals here. This is where your "needs list" comes in handy. Make sure you aren't just buying stuff because it is on sale. It is okay to get extra items, or special items, that you don't really need, but make sure you don't go overboard.
4. Shop off season. Using your needs list and basic wardrobes list to decide what you need each season. You can save money by shopping off season clearance sales. Wait to buy your winter clothes until spring and summer, and vice versa. There may be slim pickings, but if you watch carefully, you can snap up some great deals and beef up those wardrobes.
5. Visit your local outlet mall. You can find great deals at the stores in these malls. Often these malls are home to regional stores, which means that they get the clearance from others stores in the area. These stores also tend to have "clearance" racks, with deeply discounted items.
6. Know your local stores. Talk to store managers and ask about scheduled sales, when they clearance items out, and any special offers they might have. Getting to know the staff and managment of your local stores can help you find the best deals.
7. Shop thrift stores and consignment shops. Most of these places offer special sales or coupons, which can lead to additional savings. You can often find brand new clothing (with tags still attached), or nice gently used clothing here. These are also great places to find gently used toys, books, and other kids items.
8. Start a clothing swap. Have a ton of boys clothes you don't need, but looking for some cute girl's dresses? Start a clothing swap in your neighborhood, church or other community group. Members can trade items they no longer need for items they are looking for. make sure that you check the quality of items you plan to swap...you don't want to be giving away spit up stained t-shirts.
9. Prowl E-bay and other like minded sites. Just like thrift stores and consignment shops, you can find great items for low prices on these sites. You can also sell your unwanted items there, and help finance your new purchases.

Happy Shopping!