6 Ways To Save on Kids’ Back-to-School Clothes

Editor's Note: This story originally appeared on Living on the Cheap.

Most parents do not relish back-to-school clothes shopping. The crowds and the cost create a less-than-enjoyable experience.

I can’t fix the crowds, but I can help with the cost.

Last year, I outfitted my two kids for the school year for less than $100 each. Considering that many items easily sell for roughly $22 to $30 apiece, that’s a good deal. And yes, I did buy my children more than three items each.

Here are ways to buy kids school clothes without blowing your budget.

1. Consignment shops

Consignment stores are great places for good-quality merchandise, especially high-end brands like Ralph Lauren and Hanna Anderson. Shops typically have criteria for accepting clothing, which helps ensure good quality.

Bonus tip: Before you shop, clean out your kids’ old clothes and bring them in to get credit toward your purchase.

For even more selection, check out online consignment shops such as thredUP and Poshmark.

2. Outlet malls

Have an outlet mall within driving distance? Plan a trip. You’ll find in-season clothes at slashed prices.

Many outlet malls give away a FREE coupon book for their stores or post coupons online. Learn what stores are in your mall and check online for coupons before you go. Most outlet stores accept coupons from their traditional counterparts.

OshKosh B’Gosh is a popular outlet; one of its common deals is “buy 1 get 2 tops,” and that’s a great deal when you factor in the already-discounted outlet prices.

3. Host a clothing swap

Contact friends from the neighborhood, church, school, moms clubs and more who have children in a range of ages. Set up a time to meet, bring outgrown clothes and start swapping.

You may want to set up criteria for clothes to be clean, undamaged, etc.

4. Remember thrift shops

At Goodwill, Savers and the Salvation Army, the merchandise rotates frequently, so one day you may find nothing, but the next day you might find a gold mine of adorable clothes.

Plus, a bonus here is that these organizations donate money to nonprofit agencies in your community to help those in need.

5. Don’t skip big-name stores

Stores like Children’s Place, Gymboree, Crazy 8 and Kohl’s have such great sales that you should never pay full price at any of them. Sign up for their email lists so you get advance notice of sales.

Look for discount codes online at RetailMeNot to boost your savings.

If you have a Kohl’s credit card you already know about those 15%, 20% and 30% coupons cardholders receive in the mail.

But did you know the stores accept expired Kohl’s Cash? It’s not something that’s advertised, but I’ve spoken to customer service in multiple stores who’ve confirmed it.

You may want to call your Kohl’s ahead of time just to make sure. If so, save up your Kohl’s Cash until you get the 30% coupons and you’ll make out like a bandit.

6. Consider buying off-season for next year

Choices are sometimes limited, but many websites offer deals for an additional percentage off clearance prices (another good reason to sign up for those email newsletters).

It sure is nice to look in the closet in the spring or next fall and have the start of a brand-new wardrobe you picked up for next to nothing.