Baby Budget: Corners to Never Cut

ORLANDO, Fla. (Ivanhoe Newswire) -- These days, everyone's trying to stretch their dollar, but when it comes to babies, there are things you should never scrimp on. Here are a few budget corners parents should never cut.

Babies are expensive, but experts say there are a few money saving "don'ts" every mom should obey. The first is stretching formula by adding extra water. Diluting formula can lead to malnutrition and even water intoxication, which can cause seizures, coma and even death.

Another don't is buying a used car seat. Sites like Craig'slist and eBay are loaded with them, but they may have been recalled or in an accident. To save, many moms are also starting to make their own baby food, but some veggies prepared at home aren't safe. Fresh beets, turnips, carrots, collard greens and spinach may be high in nitrates, which can lower the red blood cell count in infants up to six months old. Baby food manufacturers screen those veggies, so stick with prepackaged food.

Other don'ts include buying toys for your baby and your 3-year-old to share. Check the manufacturer's recommended age ranges on toy packages and abide by them. And don't think buying a more advanced toy will help their development. It will only make them feel frustrated.