Hello Baby! Bye-bye budget?

Congratulations, you're pregnant! Now that you're expecting a little addition, you'll head to the nearest baby store and start to stock up on things you'll need. You'll need furniture, clothes, toys, diapers, formula, medical care, day care and more. Unfortunately if you don't watch your wallet, the little one can push your finances into the red even before you bring him or her home from the hospital.

How can you save? 

* Shop around at garage sales -- it's the season! -- and consignment shops. Try Goodwill (there's one on Route 9 in Poughkeepsie among other places). Make sure you check the item for good condition and broken parts. If you're buying a crib or car seat, make sure it meets the standards of the Juvenile Products Manufacturing Association. Put a car seat into your car before buying to try it out.
* If you're going to use formula, look for coupons and contact the manufacturer. Many will send welcome home boxes of formula and put you on a coupon list.
* Start asking for diaper coupons from friends, family even the library (Grinnell Library in Wappingers keeps a box of coupons out for exchange.)
* Compare prices. Keep a list of prices in a notebook, so you can compare when sales come up or when you want to hit the garage sales or consignment shops. (I keep coupons in an envelope in the notebook so you have everything together.)
* Buy a few select toys for your newborn and leave the rest to the family and friends. You'll get plenty.

Anyone have anymore money-saving tips?