New parents waste nearly £400 on baby items – here’s what to skip and how to save
From cuddly toys to expensive baby gadgets, a new survey reveals the top baby products new parents never end up using and regret buying.
- Hollie Bond
Published: April 24, 2025 at 9:16 AM
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Ask any parent and they’ll tell you: babies aren’t cheap. In fact, recent stats suggest that in the first year alone babies can cost around £7k! But while some costs are unavoidable, new research from iCandy reveals that many parents are unknowingly throwing money down the drain — to the tune of nearly £400 each.
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According to a nationwide survey of over 1,000 UK parents with children under 10, families are collectively wasting a jaw-dropping £7 billion on baby products that never see the light of day. That’s an average of £379 per parent spent on items used once or not at all — and let’s be honest, we’ve all been there.
Which items are new parents wasting their money on?
From impulse buys to well-meaning gifts, the items that end up gathering dust might surprise you. Top of the unused list? Cuddly toys, with 30% of parents admitting they went unused — proving that not every teddy is destined to become a bedtime fave.
Other items often left untouched include:
- Baby towels (28%)
- Baby shoes (25%)
- Clothes outgrown before being worn (25%)
- Bath supports or seats (21%)
Even more surprising? Essentials like breast pumps and baby slings also made the list. In hindsight, 57% of parents said they bought too much, and 46% confessed they regretted overspending.
How to avoid the big baby spend trap
So, how can you avoid making the same £400 mistake if you're expecting? In an article for The Metro, blogger and mum Suzy Turner has a few savvy tips to help parents cut costs without compromising on care:
- Consider reusable nappies: While reusable nappies have a higher upfront cost, they can save hundreds in the long run. Plus, they’re better for the planet — win-win.
- Swap, don’t shop: Join local Facebook parenting groups to swap, sell or buy second-hand gear. Many items (hello, baby baths and high chairs) are used for such a short time that they’re often as good as new.
- Say yes to hand-me-downs: Baby clothes barely get worn before your little one hits their next growth spurt. Accepting hand-me-downs from friends and family not only saves cash, but it’s also a lovely way to stay connected.
- Seek out free local activities: Many libraries, parks and community centres offer free baby groups, story times and stay-and-play sessions. These are great for your child’s development — and your wallet.
- Be picky about baby gadgets: That smart bottle warmer might look sleek, but do you need it? You might end up exclusively breastfeeding or find a cheaper alternative easier for your lifestyle. Take time before buying big-ticket tech to see if it genuinely fits your needs. Often, a simple alternative will do just fine.
Things to remember before you make baby purchases
As tempting as it is to stock up on every cute outfit and gadget, most seasoned parents will tell you: less really is more. Babies need love, safety and care — not a cupboard full of unworn booties.
So if you’re preparing for a new arrival, take heart in knowing that spending less doesn’t mean doing less. With a bit of planning and some community support, you can give your baby everything they need — and skip the £400 regret.
References: iCandy survey of over 1,000 UK parents with children under 10.
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Pics: Getty Images
Authors
Hollie BondSenior Digital Journalist
Hollie is Senior Digital Journalist at MadeForMums. She writes articles about pregnancy, parenting, child health and getting pregnant. She has written for a number of national lifestyle magazines and websites over the past 12 years including Family History Monthly, You and Your Wedding and Muddy Stilettos. She has two children aged 5 and 8 and hasn't slept since 2017!
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