If you're looking for a way to cut some of the costs of raising children, Freecycle could be for you. I've joined my local Freecycle groups and have managed to get rid of several items that I might have just thrown out or that would have stayed rotting in my closet or attic.

Initially I just wanted to see if I could find some items for my yard. I'd heard that people often get rid of things like paving stones and gardening equipment. What I found, however, is that people are getting rid of all sorts of stuff -- completely free of charge if you pick it up -- and a lot of it is related to baby care. Just this month in my area:

• High Chair
• Baby Swing
• Double Stroller
• Hooded Towels
• Crib Sheets and Baby Bedding
• Baby Gates
• Little Tikes Refrigerator
• Outdoor Swingset

And that's not all... If you have dreams of music for your child's future, just this week alone a piano and a trombone were given away. In addition, couches, computers, desks, clothing, washers and dryers have all gone been given away recently. I see maternity clothes come through at least once a week. Exercise equipment like treadmills comes up as well -- great if you're trying to lose that "baby weight" or if your New Year's resolution included shaping up.

Some words of advice, however: Make sure any items you get like toys and cribs have not been recalled and don't take a chance on getting a car seat this way, since there's always a chance it might have been in an accident, rendering it unsafe. Freecycle also has some information about making the exchange of items and how to stay safe while doing so. You'll get this information when you join your local group, so read this thoroughly and follow all safety guidelines.

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