Courtesy of Jodi Webb
- As a mom on a budget, I've found ways to save big for my family. I'm always on the lookout for offseason sales and know how to get a good bargain at store closings.I also like to shop at kids consignment stores and take advantage of used book sales.
Raising a family on a budget is always a challenge, but I've found one way to make it work. I call it "checking the box."
The box is a literal one — it's a dilapidated brown box hidden in the corner of my closet. When I'm out shopping and I find a good deal on something my kids might need (or just like), I buy it. Then, it goes inside the box until the right time to bring it out, whether for a holiday, a birthday, or just because.
Everything from pajamas to dump trucks finds its way into the box, and thanks to four simple shopping strategies, I can fill it for very little cost.
I take advantage of offseason sales
Courtesy of Jodi Webb
Who's thinking about snowstorms in April? I am. Spring is when I find great clearance sales on everything winter-related.
Every store has a different time period for the best deals. I try to visit stores regularly to stay in tune with which times are the best for the top deals. I also find it helpful to ask friendly salespeople for a heads-up when markdowns will happen.
Depending on how fast your child is growing, purchases of snow boots and parkas might be risky, but I don't limit myself to just offseason clothing. I've found deals on toys, home goods, and sports equipment, not just for my kids but also for birthday parties and fundraisers.
Last September, for example, I prepped for the following summer by purchasing a wading pool for $2, bubble wands for 25¢, and a superhero-themed folding chair for $7.
My big tips on store closings
In 2025, store closures are expected for companies including Macy's, Kohl's, CVS, Walgreens, Joann, JCPenney, Dollar General, Big Lots, and Rite Aid.
Each closing is different. Some are "everything must go," some involve moving inventory to another store, and some sell merchandise to another retailer.
When a Rite Aid closed in my area, certain items were up to 70% off, and I stocked up. I didn't have to buy shampoo for a year.
Only of my big tips here is to visit any store closing in your area with an open mind. You might find something you didn't expect.
For example, I found 10¢ spiral school notebooks in Rite Aid, 25¢ muffin liners in Joann, and 30¢ birthday candles in Walgreens. Just ask yourself two questions:
1. Do I or my children really want this?
2. Will I use this before any expiration dates? This is especially important to consider when buying multiples of anything.
Remember that closing sales are always a gamble because they typically have a no-returns policy. Before checking out, I double-check that I'm getting the right size, brand, or version.
Kids consignment sales are great if you know what you're looking for
Courtesy of Jodi Webb
I don't do yard sales. The idea of driving around for hours, never knowing what I'll find or what shape it will be in, never appealed to me.
I do, however, shop at kids consignment shops, which are basically like if someone brought hundreds of yard sales together under one roof. You can find just about anything from maternity and kids clothes to equipment and toys for all ages.
The main place I go to find shops is Kids Closet Connection, which has franchises in multiple states and is held in my local area twice a year.
These are usually huge events, so organization is the key to success. I like to check out the events' social media ahead of time to get a sneak peek of what's offered.
I make a list of exactly what I want, as well as my second choices, sizes, color preferences, etc. I find it helpful to attend with a friend, sharing our lists and splitting up so we can cover more ground.
To beat the crowds, you can sometimes take advantage of their pre-sale opportunities. These are only offered to people who meet certain qualifications, though, like if you're a first-time mom, a teacher, or part of the military.
Books can be so expensive, so I always try to hit up used book sales
Courtesdy of Jodi Webb
We are constantly told how important reading is to our children's success. However, books are expensive, especially as our children's interests constantly change. And it's always a guess if a book is going to be a hit or a dud.
You can affordably supplement your child's library at used book sales. As a veteran volunteer at a charitable used book sale, I have two key pieces of advice: because used book sales receive so many children's books, the cost is often low, like three books for $1 for paperbacks, and $1 for hardcovers. And most of those books look fresh off the bookstore shelf.
Used book sales can be found everywhere, from libraries to schools to houses of worship. You can track down sales in your area at Book Sale Finder.
To have a successful shopping trip, familiarize yourself with payment options (many are cash only). The first day will naturally have the largest assortment, but it will also likely be the most crowded and may not be the best time to bring a younger child.
Some sales offer a "bag sale" on the last day of a sale. You pay a certain amount, often about $5, and receive a bag you can fill for that price. Depending on the size of your books, you could end up with dozens. Even if you went to the sale earlier, take a chance on a second visit for the bag sale if there is a large assortment of children's books.
