I’m a cost-saving mum – exactly when to buy school uniform to save cash & keep your kids kitted out all year

IF you have school-age children, it can feel like you have to constantly shell out another shirt or replace tatty school shoes.

Annoyingly, that really adds up and can cost a fortune, especially if you have more than one child.

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And while it can be tempting to buy everything at the beginning of the school year, that’s actually the worst time to stock up.

Here, mum-of-two Maddy Alexander Grout, 38, who shares her saving and budgeting tips on TikTok, shares her top tips for seriously saving.

Strike the sale

Maddy says, “Keep your eyes peeled and plan ahead.

“Beat deals on next year’s winter coats, next-size sneakers and sport kit.

“The worst time to buy school uniforms is just before school starts, when prices are at their highest.”

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Second hand savings

If you’re not that organized (and let’s face it, not many of us are!), you can still find bargains at any time of the year when shopping second-hand.

Maddy says: “All year round, use Facebook Marketplace, eBay, Vinted and Freecycle to shop for popular uniforms and coats.

“Also check if your school has a second-hand uniform store.

“If you need school logo items, they are here.

“Check out local Facebook groups and ask if anyone sells school uniforms the size you need.

“See if your school has a Facebook page or group, you can find some real bargains from people selling or giving away old uniforms.

“My school holds a thrift sale every time to raise money for the school’s PTA. If your school doesn’t do this, maybe suggest it since people can donate old stuff they have.

“You can create space and raise money for the school at the same time.”

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Be savvy in sales

Also, keep an eye on sales in stores.

Maddy says: “Marks & Spencer usually have a 20 percent discount on school uniforms in the summer term, so you can buy the uniform for September cheaper.

“Also visit sites like Build A Bundle and markets like Little Pickles for non-branded items.

“Buy summer uniforms in August and September for the following year when they are always discounted, along with jackets for the summer.

“Sainsbury’s TU has 25 per cent off weeks all year round, so you can buy items like polo shirts, skirts and trousers cheaper and stock up for the following year.”

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Discounts and offers

There are other ways to save as well.

Maddy says: “Is there a discount system as a benefit for your work?

“You can often buy vouchers for the big supermarkets, where you can save money on buying the voucher.

“Trade with friends too, start a WhatsApp group and see if you can trade something.

“I have given away many of my sons’ old uniforms to friends with younger children to use.

“Read school emails, schools often have partnerships with local offices that sell uniforms.

“They will be emailing discount codes throughout the year.”

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