Do you know there are a lot of ways to get free baby stuff? I had no clue until my mommy friends opened my eyes to free baby registry welcome boxes.
I wished there was just one place where I could go to find all the free baby stuff. After hours of scouring the internet, I decided to collect all my research along with my friends’ tips and created this article to help all the parents out there.
It is REALLY EXPENSIVE to raise a child. On average, families spend more than $12,680 a year for babies under 2 years old.
a family will spend approximately $12,980 annually per child in a middle-income ($59,200-$107,400), two-child, married-couple family. Middle-income, married-couple parents of a child born in 2015 may expect to spend $233,610 ($284,570 if projected inflation costs are factored in*) for food, shelter, and other necessities to raise a child through age 17. This does not include the cost of a college education.
USDA’s report “The Cost of Raising a Child“
That report was published in 2015 — and things are now way more expensive. We probably spend more money now on a child than the number given in this report.
If there’s any free baby stuff, you want to grab it with both hands and don’t let it slip away!
Here’s the list!
Free Baby Registry Box and Pregnancy Box
While pregnant, you can start signing up your baby registries to prepare all the baby essentials.
Many baby registries will send you a free welcome box with coupons and samples of baby bottles, diapers, wipes, pacifiers, baby lotions…
1. Amazon Baby Registry Welcome Box
What’s in the box?
Amazon offers a welcome box as a baby registry perk, valued at $35, including free baby samples like diapers and wipes.
How to get it?
Just set up your Baby Registry, pick out 10 different things you need for your little one, and purchase at least $10 worth of stuff bought from it – either by you or your friends and family.
Then claim the welcome box.
I do like the Amazon baby registry. Most people use Amazon. It’s very easy for friends and family to send gifts.
2. Babylist Hello Baby Box
What’s in the box?
You’ll find all sorts of goodies such as onesies, bibs, pacifiers, and coupons from the brands Babylist loves and trusts.
Keep in mind, that all items typically fit babies under 2-3 months old.
How to get it?
Step 1: Create a Babylist baby registry. You need a valid U.S. shipping address.
Step 2: Add 3 items from Babylist Shop.
Step 3: Add 3 items from other stores.
Step 4: Purchase a minimum total of $30 items from the Babylist Store. The purchase can be made by you or your friends and family.
Unfortunately, there is a shipping fee for your Babylist Store order.
Good to Know
You can’t combine this box with other Babylist Shop orders, and it’s only shipped within the U.S. The items in the box vary, and there’s a limit of one box per household per year.
3. Target Baby Registry Welcome Box
What’s in the box?
Target showers you with a free welcome kit when you set up your Target Baby Registry, packed with over $100 worth of handpicked products, coupons, and samples like diapers, bottles, and exclusive discounts.
How to get it?
Create a Baby Registry at Target. Simply sign up, add a few baby items to your list from Target and other stores, and voila! You’re now eligible for the welcome kit.
You do have to swing by Guest Services on your next Target run to pick up your box of surprises.
Then, enjoy the benefits of being part of the Target family, like a 15% discount on unsold registry items, easy returns for up to a year, and a smart checklist to ensure you’ve got everything you need.
4. Buy Buy Baby Registry (NO BABY WELCOME BOX CURRENTLY)
This is really sad. Buy Buy Baby used to have a really good free baby box similar to Amazon and Target.
After changing ownership in mid-2023, many Buy Buy Baby stores were closed. Their welcome baby box is gone as well.
You do get a 15% completion discount if you use their baby registry.
I’ll keep this article updated if the welcome box ever returns.
5. Walmart Baby Registry Welcome Box (SOLD OUT CURRENTLY)
I don’t like Walmart’s free baby box as it’s not as easy to claim as others. And it’s always sold out. But it doesn’t hurt to give it a try.
What’s in the box?
Similar to the other baby registries, the Walmart baby registry box comes with free baby items and coupons, valued at about $40.
How to get it?
Just create the registry — scroll down to click on “Free Welcome Box”. Then you can claim your free Walmart box.
6. Free Baby Set From Grove Collaborative
Grove Collaborative is a online store that sells sustainable products.
What’s in the box?
Sometimes, Grove Collaborative offers a free Babyganics starter set.
If this offers is not available, they always have a very nice free gift such as countertop cleaning set, or ceramic sink-side tray.
I really like the ceramic sink-side tray. But you’ll have to spend $55 to get the tray.
How to get it?
For first time shopper at Grove Collaborative, subscribe and spend $20, then you’ll receive the free baby set of products.
7. Free Box from Bump Boxes
Bump boxes is a subscription service for pregnant moms. You’ll get healthy products monthly tailored to each phase of your pregnancy.
They also have boxes for newborns including all kinds of essentials to your baby.
What’s in the box?
You’ll get the free 1st box based on the stage of your pregnancy.
The goodies are widely ranged from skin care products, maternity clothes, to postpartum items including all kinds of breastfeeding essentials.
When you are close to your due date, they will send you box with baby products. They call it Bitsy Boxes.
How to get it?
- Put your name and email, then click “Get Offer”.
- Then you can choose the options of how to get the free box.
- Choose the type of subscription box.
- Decide whether you want to upgrade your box.
- Pay for shipping fee.
You can give someone a free box, and when they subscribe you’ll get a free box too. There is no limit of giving.
Don’t forget to cancel your subscription after you get your free box if you don’t intend to spend more money here.
8. Hey, Milestone Sample Boxes
Hey, Milestone has 4 different types of free sample boxes, intended for 4 different types of families. It’s very easy to get your free baby box.
Simply head to Hey Milestone and order the Sample Boxes under “SHOP OUR BOXES”. While the box itself is free, there’s a shipping and handling fee of $12.95 for United States.
There’s also a limit of one box per new baby per year.
8.1 Pregnancy Sample Box
The Noobie Box Pregnancy Edition is a free gift for expectant moms, packed with samples and products to support both pregnancy and the early days of motherhood.
It includes items from trusted brands like Herobililty, Lansinoh, Dr. Brown’s, and more, offering a mix of free baby essentials and treats for moms.
8.2 Newborn Sample box
Hey Milestone’s Free Newborn Sample Box is designed for both baby and mom, offering a mix of samples from beloved and trusted brands.
Free baby products that support you through the 4th trimester and beyond, with past boxes featuring brands like Nanobebe, Parasol, Oilogic, Lansinoh, Dr. Brown’s, and Bella B.
8.3 Nutrition Sample Box
The Family Nutrition Sample Box from Hey Milestone is aimed at the whole family. It includes a variety of baby food samples, toddler snacks, and even goodies for mom and dad.
This box is perfect for exploring healthy options and innovative brands, making mealtime easier and more enjoyable for picky eaters and parents alike.
8.4 Wellness Sample Box
The Fall Limited Edition Family Wellness Sample Box from Hey Milestone is all about enhancing family wellness with a curated selection of products and services.
This box includes everything from food and beverage samples to wellness products, snacks, baby and toddler items, women’s health samples, and supplement samples, aiming to introduce families to healthier lifestyle choices.
Free Baby Formulas
9. Hospital and Pediatrician Office
Do you know you can get free baby formula samples from your birthing hospital and your pediatrician’s office?
Before you leave the hospital with your newborn, ask the nurse for some baby formula samples. Our family got samples of Similac, both infant liquid and powder formula.
During your baby’s first pediatrician visit, ask the office to send you some formula samples. I received a couple of cans of Similac formula powder which lasted for quite a long time.
10. Enfamil Family Beginnings Pack
What’s in the program?
Enfamil Family Beginnings gives out very valuable freebies. They’re dishing out up to $400 in free gifts, which includes baby formula coupons and samples.
It’s a whole package of support and savings, with everything from formula samples to special offers just for joining. And guess what? They even throw in a chance to win free formula for a year!
But there’s even more – they have this app where you can get instant access to coupons, track your baby’s milestones, and share those adorable moments with your loved ones through digital Belly Badges.
How to get it?
Signing up is super easy. Just head over to their website, fill in your details, and you’re all set.
They start sending you all these amazing perks like discounts, free samples, and even cashback on your purchases.
11. MySimilac Rewards
What’s in the program?
Similar to Enfamil, Similac has a reward program. Once signing up, you’ll receive free goodies up to $400 in value.
In the box, you’ll get free baby formula samples, formula coupons, and tons of support and nutrition guidance tailored just for your baby’s needs.
You will also get a free Shutterfly® photo book. I really like this. There’s no such thing as too many baby photo books for mommies.
How to get it?
Just sign up by filling your basic information such as your name, address, email, baby’s birthday or due date.
12. My Gerber Baby Membership
What’s in the program?
Similar to the other 2 big formula brands, Gerber also has a welcome box. The free gifts in the box are surprises. In the past, people have got baby formulas, bibs, and mile-stone badges.
Gerber also sends you coupons. In addition, you get access to their experts who specialize in lactation, sleep, and nutrition.
How to get it?
Just sign up for their membership. Less information needed!
13. Free Formula Exchange
What’s free formula exchange?
The Free Formula Exchange is a rare great flat form that’s completely free. It is like a big virtual hug for families, connecting those who need baby formula with folks who have some to spare.
It’s a community-driven, mutual aid network that’s totally free to use. Think of it as a helping hand in times when finding formula feels like a treasure hunt.
How to get it?
Getting involved is super straightforward. If you’re in need of formula, just click on “I Need Formula” to fill out the form. You will be prompted to provide your basic information and asked what kind of formula you need.
Perhaps your on the other side of the equation and can donate formula, hit “Donate Formula” to share the love.
This platform is all about giving and receiving with a big heart, no money involved. It’s aim is to feed our babies and mak sure every parent has the support they need.
14. Kiinde Breastmilk Storage Starter Pack
This free sample pack pack allows you to pump your milk directly to their storage bag and feed your baby. So you can choose to store the milk or feed your baby without extra steps to transfer your milk.
It doesn’t come with a breast pump.
It does include:
Special bags to pump milk into and store it.
A bottle that fits the milk bags.
Nipples that mimic breastfeeding, making it easy for your baby.
Adapters to connect the bags to most breast pumps.
How to get it?
Just go to the Kiinde website and order the free starter pack.
While the starter pack is free, you do have to pay for shipping and are limited to only one sample pack.
15. USDA National Hunger Clearinghouse
If you are a low-income family or individual, you can get food assistance for you and your baby.
How to get it?
Simply call 1-866-3-HUNGRY or 1-877-8-HAMBRE to get help.
Or text 914-342-7744 with your request. You need to include words like “food”, “summer”, or “meals” in your text.
16. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
The SNAP program helps low income families buy food. SNAP includes a card to buy things — not just fruits, veggies, meat, dairy, but also baby formulas, and baby food.
You can’t buy alcohol, tobacco, or non-food items with it. If you’re low on money, this program can really help you get food.
How to get it?
Apply in your state: You start by applying where you live. You’ll need to show how much money you make and other info.
Interview: After you apply, there’s an interview. It can be on the phone or in person.
Documentation: You may need to provide documents such as your ID, income proof, and bills.
Decision: They’ll tell you if you get SNAP benefits within 30 days, sometimes even in 7 days if you really need it fast.
If you qualify for SNAP, you may also receive other goodies, like free phone service from StandUp Wireless. Check their website to see if you’re eligible.
Free Baby Diapers
17. Hospital
When you give birth to your baby at the hospital, you don’t have to pack any baby diapers. The hospital provides free diapers for your newborn!
If you don’t use up all the baby diapers, take home what’s left.
I brought a bag, was super nice to my nurse, and asked for a few extras to travel home with.
18. Dyper Sample Pack
This one looks like a little tricky. You have to pay $5 to get the 3 free diapers of your choice of size. But they will issue you a $5 coupon to use on their product afterward.
Those samples are actually truly free. You don’t have to pay shipping. In the end, you don’t have to pay anything for the samples if you go back and buy their products.
How to get it?
Just order the sample.
19. Millie Moon
Millie Moon is a luxury diaper that’s super soft. They offer free samples with free shipping.
You will get 2 free Millie Moon diapers of your choice of size.
Request the free samples by filling in some basic information.
20. Rascal + Friends
Rascal and Friends offer free diaper samples. Simply click “Request a Sample”, and fill out some basic information.
It’s truly free. In the past, this included 2 diapers in a sample pack.
Sometimes, it doesn’t have a full range of diaper sizes to choose from.
21. National Diaper Bank Network
There are more than 225 community based local diaper banks in the U.S. for struggling families. The National Diaper Bank Network supports these local diaper banks.
Click the location that’s closest to you in your state on the National Diaper Bank Network page. It will pop up and display the local communities you can reach out to for free diapers.
Other Free Stuff
22. Nanobébé Free Sample Kit
I really like Nanobebe’s baby bottles. I find them very easy to clean and the milk seems to flow to the nipple completely so nothing goes to waste.
I was delighted to find they offer free sample kits. But it doesn’t include the baby bottle. The free baby items include 2 disposable nursing pads, 2 Nanobebe breast milk storage bags, and the award-winning pacifier.
How to get it?
Just order it. You do have to pay a shipping fee.
You can’t order this free sample kit in combination with their Mystery Baby Box. The Mystery Baby Box costs $50. You will receive surprising baby products from Nanobebe valued from $50 to $100.
23. Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Subscription
This is my absolute favorite baby freebie and it is truly free. No payment at all. They are so valuable too.
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library will send your baby free high-quality books once signed up. They will receive one book a month from birth to age 5. That’s a total of 60 free books!!!
You can sign up for each of your children and I’ve found they don’t always send the same books! Their books are all very age-appropriate and educational. Both of my kids love days when the new books arrive.
Their program covers 5 countries! United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, Republic of Ireland.
Unfortunately, they don’t cover all locations in these countries. Check out their availability in your area.
If they cover your address, SIGN UP!!!
24. Preggie Perks from Motherhood
Motherhood is an online maternity clothing store. It’s a very affordable and comfortable maternity clothing choice.
They offer a free gift bag if you sign up for their Preggie Perks program. No fees at all.
You will get a bunch of coupons and free products such as a nursing cover and car seat canopy.
I have say that the quality of their baby items is not as good as some other baby registry welcome bags.
25. Free Breast Pump
All health insurance covers one free breast pump by law! Different insurance might cover different types of free breast pumps.
Depending on your insurance, many also cover various kinds of breast pumps partially. If you don’t like the free one, it is typically a lot cheaper to buy the one you like through your health insurance.
How to get it?
Check your coverage: Look at your insurance plan’s details online or call them. Find out what types of pumps are covered and any rules about brands or models. You can either check the benefits guide under “pregnancy” or “breastfeeding”, or call your insurance company. You can also go directly to the breast pump website to check which insurances cover their product.
Apply through your plan: Follow your insurance’s process, which might include choosing a pump from a third-party provider or directly through the breast pump website. In most cases, you need your doctor’s prescription in hand.
Be aware of specific rules: Some plans have rules. Such as when you can apply for a pump (some only after the baby is born). They may only cover one pump per pregnancy or have time limits between coverages.
26. WIC
WIC is The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children.
WIC helps moms, babies, and kids up to age 5. It’s all about giving them a healthy start with things like nutritious foods, education on breastfeeding and nutrition, and even hooking them up with health care.
Contact your local state to find out if you are qualified for the program.
27. Local Government for Free Car Seat
Each state has programs that support families with car seats.
For example, Ohio (my State) has an Ohio Buckles Buckeyes Car Seat Program from the Ohio Department of Health. It provides eligible families with free safe child car seat.
You do need to attend an educational class provided by trained local CPS staff.
If you are qualified for WIC, it might also be able to provide you with a free baby car seat.
Reach out to your local government to get your free car seat and see if you qualify for the low-income.
28. Cribs for Kids
The mission of Cribs for Kids is to provide free cribs for families who can’t afford them and educate them on the safety of infant sleep environment.
Crib limit: 30 lbs., 35 inches
Infant Age: 12 months and younger
How to get it?
Search for a Partner near your location
Call to connect with the location partner
29. United Way for Free Car Seats
Dial 211 for United Way if you are low-income. The United Way will connect you with their local branch to help you get a free low cost car seat. They can also help with food and bills assistance.
30. Hand Me Downs
I love hand-me-downs, especially for the second baby. I got all the baby boy clothes and baby toys from my sister-in-law. The amount of money I saved is tremendous!
Ask around your family and friends to see if they have any hand-me-downs.
Office, daycare, and Church community are also good resources to look for hand-me-downs.
Conclusion
The baby registry welcome box is the best place to start.
Some of the free baby boxes require subscriptions to the service. Don’t forget to cancel your subscription if you don’t intend to spend the money there.
Free baby gear is really hard to find. Local government and some non-profit organizations provide free baby gear to low-income families, but don’t forget to check with your church and family and friends.
Free baby clothes are also hard to find. Some baby welcome boxes might have onesies, but not a lot. Explore your local thrift store or Goodwill for baby clothes at huge discounts.
