Budgeting for Baby: Essential Costs & Why Postpartum Self-Care Matters

Welcoming a baby is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with financial planning. From cribs to car seats, new parents often feel pressured to buy everything on the checklist. But how much do you really need? And amidst all these expenses, how can parents prioritize postpartum recovery and self-care for new moms?

How Much Do New Parents Spend?

In the Netherlands, expectant parents spend €1,500 – €3,000 preparing for their baby’s arrival. Some of the biggest costs include:

🍼 Baby essentials (crib, stroller, car seat, clothing) – €1,000+
👶 Diapers & baby care – €40 per month
🏡 Home adjustments (baby-proofing, nursery setup) – €500+

It’s easy to see how these costs add up. But the truth is, not everything on the baby checklist is necessary—and some items go completely unused.

What Baby Items Do You Really Need?

Many new parents find they can save money by skipping unnecessary purchases, such as:

❌ Too many newborn clothes – Babies outgrow them fast!
❌ Fancy baby gadgets – Many high-tech items are rarely used.
❌ Expensive nursery décor – Beautiful, but not a priority.

Instead, investing in quality over quantity—choosing second-hand baby gear or multifunctional baby products—can save hundreds of euros while still meeting all your baby's needs.

Why Budgeting for Postpartum Self-Care is Essential

While much of the focus is on the baby, new moms also need care, nourishment, and rest to fully recover. Yet, postpartum self-care is often overlooked in budgeting.

💛 Why it matters:

✔️ Nutrition supports postpartum recovery – A well-fed mom has better energy, healing, and milk supply.
✔️ Time-saving meals reduce stress – Fresh, ready-to-eat postpartum meals give new moms more rest.
✔️ Mental well-being improves – A nourished and supported mom feels better physically and emotionally.

What does your baby truly need? A mama who is nurtured—both mentally and physically. A mom who feels supported, knowing she doesn’t have to do it all alone. Someone who can focus on bonding with her baby instead of worrying about cooking, cleaning, and the endless to-do list that doesn’t pause with motherhood.

How to Include Mom’s Self-Care in Your Baby Budget

Instead of spending on non-essential baby gear, consider setting aside a budget for postpartum wellness. Some ideas include:

✔️ Postpartum meal delivery (like Mater by Lou’s nutrient-packed meals)
✔️ A postpartum doula or babysitting help
✔️ Comfort items (nursing-friendly clothing, relaxing teas, skincare)

A Mater Box makes a perfect baby shower gift or budget-friendly addition to postpartum planning—ensuring new moms get nourishing, homemade meals without the hassle of cooking.

Special Spring Offer

To help more moms prioritize postpartum nutrition, we’re offering 15% off Mater meals for orders placed before Sunday at midnight.

🛒 Use code: MATERSPRING at checkout!

Because when mom is nourished, the whole family thrives. 💛