Wondering what I don’t buy anymore to save money as a mom?
If you’d told me a few years ago that that I’d willingly stop spending money on things that once felt like “essentials,” I would’ve laughed.
Because back then? I spent money like it would magically replenish itself. I didn’t think twice about takeout or clothes I never wore.
But something shifted. Not overnight, but slowly; after enough moments of standing in front of my closet thinking why did I buy this?,
Now, I still love the occasional treat, but I’m a whole lot more intentional about what actually makes it into my cart.
Here’s a list of things I stopped buying; and honestly? I don’t miss a single one.
1. Takeout & Uber Eats Everything
I used to rely on takeout way more than I should’ve.
I even had the Uber One membership because I told myself it was “saving money” meanwhile we were spending over $300 a month just on food deliveries.
Once I started meal planning and doing proper grocery runs, things got easier.
I haven’t ordered from Uber Eats in months and I don’t miss it at all.
The food at home tastes better (and it doesn’t come with a side of guilt).
2. Pre-Cut Veggies
I used to think those pre-chopped veggies were a huge timesaver.
Truth is, they just made my grocery bill go up… a lot.
Now I grab the whole veggies and chop them myself.
It takes minutes, costs less, and somehow makes me feel like I’ve got my life together.
3.Pre-Made Grocery Store Meals & Impulse Food Buys
Let’s be real; those heat-and-eat grocery store meals used to call my name.
Add in some sushi trays, deli mac and cheese, and a roasted chicken I didn’t plan on buying… and….my grocery budget was all gone.
Now I order groceries online and stick to my list.
No smells, no distractions, no extra $30 spent on stuff I didn’t need.
4. Makeup I Never Use
I’ve never been a full-glam kinda girl. Most days I’m an eyeliner-and-go mom.
But I still used to buy makeup; just because it was on sale or looked pretty.
Now I have one good set of makeup I trust and actually use.
When I have an event, I do my own makeup instead of booking a salon.
It saves money and time, and honestly… I feel more like myself.
5. Clothes I’ll Only Wear Once
I used to fall for the cute seasonal outfits especially summer dresses.
Bought a bunch, wore maybe one.
Now I stick to neutral basics: comfy tees, crop tops, hoodies, jeans.
Stuff I reach for all the time. Nothing sits around collecting dust.
6. Baby Gear I Didn’t Need
Oh, this one hits hard.
I bought so many bottles, sippy cups, baby wraps, and carriers… most of them barely used.
Now I pause, research, and give myself 24 hours before I buy anything baby-related.
That simple habit has saved us so much money (and storage space).
7. Cheap Jewelry & Accessories
I had a whole box of fast-fashion jewelry most of it tangled or rusty.
Cute in theory, but my fingers were turning green and I never actually wore most of it.
Now I keep a few everyday pieces I love and wear constantly.
Less clutter, more quality.
None of these changes happened overnight. But slowly, with each choice, I started buying less—and feeling more at peace.
More content.
More organized.
More in control of our money and our space.
And no, it’s not about being super strict or perfect. It’s just about being mindful. Asking “do I really need this?” and being okay when the answer is no.
If you’re in a season where money feels tight or you just want to simplify; start here. Look at what you’re buying out of habit. Let go of the stuff that isn’t adding value.
You won’t miss as much as you think…
