Understanding Diaper Costs: What Can I Expect to Spend?
One of the biggest costs new parents encounter is diapers. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, parents can expect to use approximately 8,000 diapers for each child.[1] That means anywhere you can save on diapers can significantly impact your family’s budget.
To help you budget and find cost savings, this article will guide you through what you can expect to pay for diapers and some tips for spending less.
What is the average cost of a diaper?
The price of diapers varies by brand, size and location. However, on average, disposable diapers are around 30 cents apiece.[2]
What is the average cost of diapers per month?
The average baby goes through eight to 12 diapers per day. At approximately 30 cents per diaper, parents can spend from around $70 to over $100 per month for one baby. If you have two children in diapers, the cost of diapers can be over $200 per month.[3]
What is the average cost of diapers per year?
The American Academy of Pediatrics estimates parents use around 3,000 diapers in a newborn's first year, with a cost of around $1,000.[4] If you have two children in diapers, you could be spending approximately $2,000 or more per year.
Why can diapers be so expensive?
The costs of raw materials, production, and distribution have risen in recent years. Diaper brands have had to adjust pricing because of the rising cost of raw materials, production, and distribution of their products.[5]
How can I spend less on diapers?
Diapers are a necessity, so finding ways to save can make that baby budget stretch further. Try these tips to spend less on diapers.
Try store brands
Skip the national name brands in favor of a store brand like Tippy Toes. They offer the same quality as national brands at a lower cost. Those savings really add up when you use thousands of diapers a year.
Look for sales and coupons
Even if it might not seem like a lot upfront, a sale or coupon of even $1 on a pack of diapers can add up over time. If the deal allows for it, use a sale or a coupon deal to stock up.
Buy in bulk
The cost per diaper is generally cheaper when you buy bulk packages. Buying diapers in bulk costs more upfront but can save you money in the long term.
Join your local independent grocer’s loyalty or rewards programs
Many grocers have loyalty or rewards programs. You can get discounts and deals, when you join, which can save you significant money on products like diapers.
Register for diapers
Are you having a baby shower? Put diapers on your gift registry. Not only can this save you money, but it can also be helpful as a new parent to already have a supply of diapers on hand.
Understanding the cost of diapers is critical for parents navigating their budgets. With some research and implementation of some of these tips, you can be confident you’re getting the best price on diapers for your family. Tippy Toes has a line of quality and affordable diapers to consider. Find a retailer near you.
[1] American Academy of Pediatrics https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/diapers-clothing/Pages/Changing-Diapers.aspx
[2] American Academy of Pediatrics https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/diapers-clothing/Pages/Buying-Diapers.aspx
[3] https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/diapers-clothing/Pages/Buying-Diapers.aspx
[4] American Academy of Pediatrics https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/diapers-clothing/Pages/Buying-Diapers.aspx
[5] CNN https://www.cnn.com/2021/04/23/business/diaper-costs-families-poverty/index.html