so far, i've bought my entire maternity wardrobe, tons of socks, onesies, and nighties from the goodwill. if you don't normally shop at thrift stores, try it. it's perfect for maternity and baby clothes, since they are usually only worn a few times and are still in good shape.
yesterday, i found a bouncer (minus the batteries, of course) for $1.99! consignement shops and craigslist are also good. i got a brand new graco travel system (used once) from craigslist for $125!!
just thought i'd share, because everyone's looking for a deal these days!
Re: i LOVE thrift stores!
There is children's consignment store near us call the Apple Orchard (or something like that) that I have come to love. The stuff they sell is dirt cheap and half of it looks brand new. They had a Peg Perego Pliko 3 stroller for $90 (retail almost $400) that had never even been used. The lady just changed her mind and couldn't return it.
Almost all of the clothes are brand name and look new. There are a few pieces here and there that look really worn, but most are in great condition. Most of their pieces sell for $1.99 and outfits that are 2+ pieces sell for up to $3.99. I can't wait until I know what the baby is so I can go shopping there.
Some of their gear is well used and I probably wouldn't buy most of that there, though. The clothes are amazing though. Although, I did spot an exersaucer that looks brand new for $20.
Our local Goodwill is kind of sketchy, so I've been sticking to the consignment shops. I got 4-5 dressy maternity tops for work that were practically new for like $6 each.
We find out the sex on Monday and I'm very excited to start shopping for LO!
I do too. We have several Goodwill branches around the city and DH and I have always been big fans. It depends on where you shop... Goodwills in nice neighborhoods tend to have nice castoffs, but they're still dirt cheap!
One of the ones I often go to has a ton of crib bumpers - at least two dozen. And most of them look new since they're something people don't use for very long.