Who Doesn't Like Freebies?

I know I am not telling anyone anything new when I say that preparing for a baby is expensive, even if you just do the basics and forego the "fluff" it has the ability to put a dent in anyone's bank account. Plus, trying to figure out which type/brand works best can be a little much for first time parents, and when asking for opinions you get just as many answers since many have their own personal choice. But, I have discovered that there are many stores and sites that will provide you with a box of samples to help pave the way.

First, the easiest ones I have discovered so far (but have yet to receive the boxes):

• Walmart will send you a free welcome box, all you have to do is follow the link and sign up:
  https://www.walmart.com/cp/baby-registry/1229485?u1=&oid=223073.1&wmlspartner=CY3NkS*Y9qw&sourceid=24064453711959595954
• Sam's Club will do the same (yes I know they hail from the same mother ship) and you don't have to be a member; follow the link to sign up: https://www3.samsclub.com/best-deals/samplesamsclub/
• If you are a resident of California or Washington you can get a free pregnancy journal: https://www.scholarshare.com/buzz/pea-pumpkin.shtml
• When you join Similac you can get formula: https://similac.com/formula-coupons-free-samples
• Did you know Dolly Parton is on a fight against illiteracy? If it is available in your area (it is not in ours--boo!) you can register your child and receive free age-appropriate books from Dolly Parton's Imagination Library: http://www.imaginationlibrary.com/  *go to Register My Child
• Also, something I think is pretty cool, you can get a Newborn Greeting (along with many others) from the White House. Follow the link to get more information: https://www.thebalance.com/how-to-order-free-white-house-greetings-1358017

Diapers are worth their weight in gold, but if you contact many of the major diaper companies to let them know you are trying to switch or decide which diapers you would like to use they would be more than happy to hook you up with samples. Now this won't get you through a long period of time, but something is better than nothing. Also, many of the companies like Huggies have reward systems that can help earn some free stuff too.

Many new parents set up registries, but some are more meaningful than others. If you complete a registry with Amazon.com and check all the boxes (including a small purchase) they will send you a welcome box of goodies as well. This is what I received.

Target will also give you a welcome bag of goodies, simply set up a registry and visit your local Target store. I believe you just talk to customer service about it (I will find out today). ***Update, Target does give a welcome bag (pictures below) and all you have to do is talk to customer service. Super easy. I have heard (but not tried yet) that Babies-R-Us will do the same thing. I am sure there are a lot more out there, so if you know of one let us know! :)