Save cash on babies' and kids' clothes

Baby clothes, trendier than ever and oh-so-irresistible, can take a big chunk out of your budget. But you don't have to spend a bundle. Here are three ways to save big on baby clothes and shoes.

--Don't buy designer duds. Babies may be able to wear them only once or twice before they outgrow them, inspiring new-parent guilt and the sense that the money could have been better spent on diaper, wipes, or formula. If you can't resist, watch for sales at your favorite baby stores and scout for designer wear at secondhand shops.

--Arm yourself with coupons. Before you hit your favorite baby clothing stores or buy anything online, check for printable coupons and online coupon codes on Web sites such as www.couponcabin.com. There, you can find coupons and codes for dozens of major retailers that sell baby clothes such as Babies R' Us, Baby Gap, Baby Age, Gymboree, Sears, Target, Macy's, and Old Navy, which can slash from 10 to 15 percent off your clothing tab (although some may require a minimum purchase). Look for free shipping offers.

You can also do a quick Google search for "(store name) coupon" or "(store name) code." You'd be surprised at how many coupon codes are out there. Or join the e-mail list of your favorite baby and department stores by signing up online at the store's Web site for advance notice of sales and coupons sent right to your in-box. Combining a sale item with a coupon can result in unbelievable savings on top brands--and tingles for you at check-out.

One caveat: When you're shopping online with coupons, take note of shipping costs and handling charges. They can sometimes wipe out any savings—and then some. In addition to using online coupons, check out a clothing Web site's sale or clearance section for serious savings.

--Do your footwork. When buying your child's shoes online, look for sites that offer free shipping, free return shipping (so you can easily return pairs, if necessary), and no sales tax. To slash your chances of having to return shoes, visit a shoe store first to scope out the selection and get your child's foot measured.

Click here to learn more about clothing for babies, holiday toy-shopping tips, and other ways parents can save money.