Money hacks How to save a bundle on children's clothes

Charity shops can be a goldmine for bargains - use the Charity Retail Association's online search page to find ones that stock children's clothes, or in London, head to one of FARA's 14 stores that specialise in kids' clothes.

- Elizabeth Bennett

Shop secondhand Again you can find them listed online.

Secondhand sales events can also offer great savings - NCT's nearly new sales (free for everyone but NCT members get 15 minutes' early access) and Mum2Mum Market (£2 entry an adult, children go free) take place regularly across the country.

Online, secondhand sites such as Vinted, Depop and Facebook Marketplace have the biggest choice. Using AI technology, Faircado will help you find the best deals across 50 platforms selling secondhand products.

Create a list of things you need and stick to it, says Evolena de Wilde d'Estmael, the chief executive and co-founder of Faircado. "This will help you avoid buying impulsively." If you can't find an item at that moment and don't need it immediately, you can set a digital alert in the app.

D'Estmael recommends cross-checking with retail prices to see what is a good deal and checking seller's reviews before buying. Ruby Blaken, the founder of the secondhand and ex-stock clothing business Second Snuggle, says: "If you want to ensure your items are checked for marks and described well, check out the Instagram account @theclubpreloved, which showcases a collection of independent businesses selling quality secondhand pieces."

Get swapping Check out sites such as Facebook or Nextdoor to find local in-person clothes swaps, or host one yourself either at home or at your child's nursery or school.

"Invite a group of parents and focus on quality over quantity by setting a limit," says Alexandra Birtles, the co-founder of In Good Company, a free app for finding ethical and sustainable businesses and experiences. "For example, ask people to bring between two and 10 items, all in good condition."