Check craigslist!
I have found a few big ticket items in perfect condition for half or less than what they would have cost originally:
a $700 glider with ottomon for $120 (tDutailer which is top of the line)
a $150 swing for $65 (snugabunny)
an $100 jumperoo for $40 (Fisher Price)
These are things that can be easily cleaned. And swings and jumperoos can be lifesavers...but their lifespan for a child is only a few months.
I know some people want new because they plan to reuse for future children and that is fine! But new, better models often come out so if you are going to wait a few years...do you really want to store all that gear anyway?
I realize this may not be an attractive solution for many families. But I do think for many that it is worth considering. You just have to be wise about what you choose to buy used.
Feel free to comment
Re: PSA: Want to save money?
I bought our swing (Fisher Price Nature's Touch) for $25
our Evenflo exersaucer $25
our bumbo $10
our bouncy seat (Fisher Price Nature's Touch) $10
our Jumperoo (Fisher Price) $35
and our Ergo (BNIB) $40
Seriously good deals.