Back to school clothes shopping is something as a parent I hate doing. But the kids love it. These hints will make you feel easier about spending your money and enjoy the shopping. Smart back to school clothes shopping is something everyone can learn to do. Here are some ways to save money this back to school season. Subscribe to Type-A Mom articles

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Go through your child’s closets before shopping

I have a box for each of my kids of clothes I have bought in a size bigger when they were on sale. I make sure I go through them a couple times a year. This will prevent buying things you don’t need or having them outgrow the clothes before they wear them.

Clean the closet

Take the clothes from their closets and drawers that they don’t wear or fit into anymore. Donate them or take them to a gently used clothes store.

Try shopping at thrift stores first

The clothes have already been worn so it is usually cheaper than brand new. If you look really hard you can find name brands. Also try gently used clothes stores. These clothes look almost new and the prices are usually half.

Look for final sale racks or clearance sales

You can get brand new summer clothes for almost half price or in some cases even less. Keep on the lookout for these sales. You may even want to buy a size too big so that your child can grow into it. Make sure you don’t buy anything too trendy.

Shop at outlet malls

This can increase how much you can get for your money. You can find name brands at lower prices. You might find irregular marks on these clothes, so just make sure you inspect everything before you buy it.

Try on-line second hand stores, auctions and swaps

This helps if you don’t have a lot of choice in stores where you live. Try these on-line places:

• EBay.com
• swapthing.com
• wornbutnotforgotten.com
• gentlylovedclothing.com

Try only buying only one outfit before back to school

When your kids come home from school the first day, they will probably tell you what they really wanted. Retail stores start marking down their fall clothes after school actually starts.

Splurge on an occasional brand name item

Kids think brand names are the best; some kids even get teased if they don’t have the popular things. Do you remember having to have one of those Hypercolor T-shirts? They changed color when you wore them or if someone put their hand on your back? I had two!

Teach your child that these clothes won’t determine who they are, but still allow them (when you can) wear the popular brands.

Photo copyright melodi2