Occasionally you'll run into something that is overpriced just because it is for babies. I am not talking about something that is uniquely useful or made safe for infants - I am talking about an almost identical thing for a different price. With a little forethought you might be able to spot these markups and save money. Here are a few examples of where this might happen.

Small “Tupperware” style containers in cute primary colors. Try the regular ones, which should come in sizes just as small, and save a dollar or two.

Washcloths. Why is a small pink one three times the cost of a normal white one? Compare them before you buy.

Soap. There are many inexpensive, scent-free, hypoallergenic soaps that might do just as well on your baby at a fraction of the cost of the fancy baby-labeled stuff.

Laundry detergent. Most, but admittedly not all, babies will do just fine with washing their clothes in the same load as the adult clothing, especially if you use a fragrance- and dye-free detergent.

Basically, just think for a minute about whether or not you use something just like the baby version, and then do a price comparison. Every once in a while you’ll be shocked at the markup.

What items have you seen that belong on this list? - Leigh G.