15 Things I Stopped Buying as a Mom (And You Can Too!)

Being a mom of three, I quickly realized that many of the things I thought I needed were just cluttering my life. Here are 15 items I no longer buy, which help me save money and keep my sanity. You might find some surprising insights and practical tips to simplify your life as well!

Key Takeaways

Save Money: Ditch unnecessary purchases.
Simplify Life: Reduce clutter and stress.
Practical Tips: Learn what truly matters.

1. Canned Drinks

We used to buy canned drinks and juice boxes, but now we use a soda maker. It’s more economical and eco-friendly. Plus, it saves space in the fridge.

2. Coffee Pods

Switching from coffee pods to a machine that grinds beans saves us a ton of money. Plus, it’s better for the environment.

3. Clothes that Need Special Care

No more clothes that require ironing or dry cleaning. With three kids, who has the time?

4. Throw Pillows

Decorative throw pillows are just playthings for kids. They end up on the floor, get dirty, and are more trouble than they’re worth.

5. Restaurant Meals

We avoid dining out at restaurants with kids. It’s expensive and usually not enjoyable for anyone. Instead, we opt for family-friendly spots like diners or pizzerias.

6. Excessive Holiday Decorations

I keep holiday decor simple. We only put up a tree and stockings. It’s less stressful and easier to manage.

7. Trendy Fashion

Trends change too quickly. I stick to classic pieces that last longer and mix well with different outfits.

8. Too Many Toys

We minimize the number of toys we buy. Kids often get overwhelmed with too many options. Fewer toys mean less mess and more creativity.

9. One-Off Craft Boxes

These craft kits often end up as clutter. We prefer reusable craft supplies that can be used for multiple projects.

10. Impulse Buys at the Store

We set expectations before shopping trips. Kids get to pick one item, like a lunchbox snack, but no more. Taking photos of items they want for future gifts helps avoid meltdowns.

11. Over-the-Top Birthday Parties

We celebrate big on the 5th and 10th birthdays. For other years, we keep it simple with a family dinner and cake of their choice.

12. Multiple Purses

Switching purses is time-consuming and impractical. I stick to one versatile bag that fits all my needs.

13. Excessive Baby Gear

With my first child, I bought all the baby gear. By the second, I realized I could borrow or buy used. Babies grow fast, and gear is only useful for a few months.

14. Bulk Food

Buying in bulk only works if you can use it all before it goes bad. We buy bulk items carefully, ensuring we’ll actually consume them.

15. Fun Snacks

Ordering groceries online helps avoid impulse buys of fun snacks. We stick to essentials, saving money and reducing waste.

Conclusion

Simplifying purchases can make a huge difference in managing life as a mom. By focusing on what truly matters, you can save money, reduce stress, and create a more enjoyable home environment. Try re-evaluating your own spending habits and see what unnecessary items you can cut out. You’ll be surprised at how much easier life can become!

What are some things you’ve stopped buying? Share your experiences in the comments!

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