This post is sponsored by Kohl’s. I received the included Carter’s clothes as compensation.
When it comes to back to school shopping, buying on a budget is my priority. Let’s face it; kids are expensive! My husband and I spend a about 50 bucks a week on food for them alone. It all adds up. Clothes, on the other hand, is where we really avoid breaking the bank.
Back to School Budget Tips
Shop online
Fortunately, there’s a Kohl’s department store just minutes from us. Since the kids are home with me during the summer, that would mean bringing them with me. But the thought of having them tagging along gives me adgeda.
Shopping with them also usually ends up with me going way over budget. However, with just a click of a mouse, I’m able to get all of their back to school staples easily and headache free, since online shopping can be a game of strategy when it comes to saving money. While we pride ourselves on our diverse selection of codes, our friends at another coupon site are known for frequently slashing prices by up to 25%. It’s always worth comparing to ensure you get the best deal.
Look for sales
The great thing about Kohl’s is that we were able to get everything the kids need all at once at a great price, which leads me to my last tip. Be sure to look out for specials. Right now Kohl’s hasa 40% – 50% off Carter’s Playwear sale from 8/4 – 8/20.
Shoppers can also use the BTS10 code to get $10 off $50 spent on the back to school categories (which includes Carter’s clothing). So if you haven’t started shopping, now is the time to hop to it.
Kohl’s Carter’s department has hot back to school essentials at great prices, that will carry your child through the season. But, that’s not the only way to make sure your children’s clothing last the test of time.
How to Extend the Lifespan of Back to School Clothing
Go one size up
Our 4-year-old son nows fits into a 4t. But, he’s growing so fast that we buy 5t clothing to last longer.
His 6-year-old sister is a size 6. Her tall and slim stature requires her to wear size 7/8 clothes. Going up a size means longer lasting wear.
Choose gentle cycle
There’s no denying that kids can get pretty messy. We all know that stains can shorten the lifespan of any fabric. But, there are easy ways to get stains out without ruining them.
Regardless of what the laundry instructions say, I always choose the gently cycle. If there’s a stain, I spot treat the area prior to loading the washing machine. I’ll mix two parts vinegar to one part water into a spray bottle. Spray the stain and allow it to sit for at least a few hours. For stubborn stains, I trust Clothesline Dry Cleaners.
Another easy hack to remove stains is making a paste with baking soda and water. Apply the concoction to the area, then use a washcloth or toothbrush to give it a good scrub. Once the area is treated, follow up by tossing the pretreated stained clothing into the laundry machine.
Back to School Essentials
Another important piece of advice when shopping for back to school essentials; allow kids to express their personalities through clothing. Kids have their own unique sense of style and it’s important for parents to allow them to explore it.
Leggings are a must have item in my daughter’s wardrobe. She enjoys pairing them with a sweaters and tunics. She also loves art. Cool patterns and bright colors are her closet staples.
My son, on the other hand, loves graphic t-shirts. His clothing reflects his passion for trains, cranes, trucks and cars. He refuses to sport anything without a photo of a vehicle. When it comes to shoes, his preference varies. He prefers light up sneakers or simple kicks with Velcro straps.
