Tidy Life ToolsNew baby on a budget (UK)
You need less than the shops suggest. Start with what money you'll have coming in: Statutory Maternity Pay is 90% of your average weekly pay for 6 weeks, then £194.32 a week (or 90% if that's lower) for 33 weeks in 2026/27 (GOV.UK).
Figures checked against GOV.UK on 4 October 2026.
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| What to look for | Why it's here |
|---|---|
| Muslin squares multipack (affiliate link) | You'll use them for everything |
| Reusable cloth wipes (affiliate link) | Cheaper than disposable wipes over time |
| Baby bath support (affiliate link) | Cheaper than a full baby bath |
| Basic audio baby monitor (affiliate link) | A video monitor is optional |
| Scented nappy sacks (instead of a nappy bin) (affiliate link) | Skips the special bin and refills |
| Wipe-clean changing mat (affiliate link) | Works on any surface |
| Baby sling or carrier (affiliate link) | Hands-free, and cheaper than a second pushchair |
| Room thermometer (affiliate link) | Helps keep the nursery at a safe temperature |
| Breast pump (optional) (affiliate link) | Ask about NHS or charity loan schemes first |
Plan childcare costs with the Tax-Free Childcare calculator and check Child Benefit and the high income charge.
Money coming in (2026/27)
| Payment | How much |
|---|---|
| Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) | 90% of average weekly earnings for 6 weeks, then £194.32 a week (or 90% if lower) for 33 weeks |
| Child Benefit | £27.05 a week for the eldest or only child (£1,406.60 a year), £17.90 a week for each other child |
| Sure Start Maternity Grant | £500 one-off, usually for a first child, if you get certain benefits (England, Wales and NI) |
Source: GOV.UK. Child Benefit is subject to the High Income Child Benefit Charge if either parent earns over £60,000. Claim it anyway to protect your National Insurance record.
Worked example: SMP on £500 a week
If your average weekly earnings are £500, the first 6 weeks are 90% = £450 a week (£2,700). The next 33 weeks are £194.32 a week (£6,412.56). That's £9,112.56 before tax over 39 weeks, which is far less than your usual pay. Your employer may pay more, so check your contract. Work out your own figures with the maternity pay calculator.
Spend less on kit
- Wait for gifts: make a short list and share it, so you don't get three of the same thing.
- Borrow and buy second-hand for clothes, bouncers, baby baths and toys. Buy car seats and mattresses new.
- Buy small sizes in small amounts: newborn clothes and nappies are outgrown quickly.
- Check what's free: Healthy Start vouchers if you qualify, and local baby banks or swap groups.
For a fuller picture, see new baby costs in the UK.
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See how long you can afford to be off, and what to save before your leave starts.
SMP worked out week by week (including employer full or half pay) and turned into monthly take-home pay, a budget for while you're on leave, the month your savings would run out, a baby kit list, a return-to-work and nursery cost comparison, and key dates from your due date.
Get it for £6 →FAQs
How much is Statutory Maternity Pay in 2026/27?
90% of your average weekly earnings for the first 6 weeks, then £194.32 a week (or 90% of your average weekly earnings if that's lower) for the next 33 weeks.
How much is Child Benefit in 2026/27?
£27.05 a week for the eldest or only child and £17.90 a week for each additional child. It's paid every 4 weeks.
Who can get the £500 Sure Start Maternity Grant?
Usually parents expecting their first child (or a multiple birth) who get certain benefits, such as Universal Credit. It's a one-off payment that doesn't need to be paid back.
Related calculators & guides
Maternity pay (SMP) calculator · New baby costs · Tax-Free Childcare · Child Benefit charge (HICBC) · School holiday childcare costs · Paternity & shared parental pay · Neonatal care & bereavement pay