Diapers are a necessity for parents with infants, but they can also be a significant expense, especially if you choose to use disposable diapers.
In this article, we’ll share some tips for saving money on disposable baby diapers so that you can keep your baby dry without breaking the bank.
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Why Are Disposable Baby Diapers So Expensive?
Disposable baby diapers are more expensive than cloth diapers not because they take more time and materials to make, or because those materials are more expensive (diaper companies have cut those costs as low as possible) but because you need so many of them.
On average, babies typically use:
- About 10 diapers per day from 0-6 mos (1,825 diapers),
- About 8 diapers per day from 6-18 months ( 2,920 diapers), and
- About 6 diapers a day from 18 months to three years (3,285 diapers).
That’s about 8,030 diapers!
That’s a lot of diapers!
While the individual cost of each disposable diaper in the US is just between about .20 to .30 cents each according to Wikipedia, it all adds up, and fast.
Tips and Resources for Saving Money on Disposable Baby Diapers
Buy in Bulk
Buying in bulk is one of the easiest ways to save money on disposable baby diapers. By purchasing a larger quantity of diapers at once, you can take advantage of bulk discounts and save money over time. Additionally, buying in bulk means that you’ll have a supply of diapers on hand, so you won’t have to run out to the store as often.
When buying in bulk, it’s essential to consider the size of your baby and how quickly they go through diapers. When a baby is close to the top end of the weight limit, always size up as a small disposable diaper can cause a blowout.
It’s also a good idea to compare prices across different stores to find the best deal. Costco and Sam’s Club (if you have one) are both good options. Amazon is also now carrying larger boxes of diapers and sometimes has buy X get X off deals on diapers. (At the time of publication, they have a $20 off $100 deal on several types, sizes, and brands of disposable diapers, you can check if it’s still available here.)
Use Coupons and Promo Codes
Another way to save money on disposable baby diapers is to use coupons and promo codes. Many manufacturers and retailers offer discounts on diapers through their websites, social media pages, and email newsletters.
You can also find coupons and promo codes by searching online or using apps like Rakuten or Honey.
While apps are always up to date, paper coupons and email promo codes can expire. It’s important to read the fine print to make sure you understand the terms and conditions for these types of promotions. Some coupons may only be valid for a limited time or may only be used on certain products.
It’s also a good idea to combine coupons and promo codes with other money-saving strategies, like buying in bulk.
Try Different Brands and Generic Brands
Not all disposable baby diapers are created equal. Some brands are more expensive than others, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re better. By trying different brands, you can find the one that works best for your baby while also saving money.
When trying different brands, it’s important to consider both the cost and the quality. Cheaper brands may be more affordable, but they may also be less absorbent or less comfortable for your baby. It’s also a good idea to read reviews from other parents to see what they have to say about different brands.
Generic brands, or store brands, like Costco’s Kirkland brand, Walmart’s Parent’s Choice diapers, Target’s Up & Up diapers, and even Amazon’s Mama Bear diapers are all going to be less expensive than many of the premium Huggies and Pampers boxes. Store brands are often produced by the same companies as the premium brands, it’s just the marketing that changes the price. For example, Huggies maker Kimberly-Clark makes Kirkland diapers.
Choose the Right Size
Choosing the right size of disposable baby diapers is essential for both your baby’s comfort and your wallet. If you choose diapers that are too small, they will be more prone to leaks and blowouts. If you choose diapers that are too big, they may not fit well enough around the legs, which also means leaks.
To choose the right size of disposable baby diapers, it’s essential to know your baby’s current weight. Most manufacturers provide sizing charts that will help you find the right size for your baby. It’s also a good idea to pay attention to how your baby’s diapers fit and adjust the size as necessary. Don’t be affraid to size up, but don’t go multiple sizes up.
Subscribe to Diaper Delivery Services
Some retailers and manufacturers offer subscription services that will deliver diapers to your door on a regular basis. By subscribing to one of these services, you can save money on diapers and ensure that you always have a supply of diapers on hand.
Additionally, many subscription services offer discounts for subscribers, which can help you save even more money.
Some services offer a wider variety of brands and sizes than others, so it’s important to find one that meets your specific needs.
Some of the more popular diaper subscriptions available are:
Additional Ways to Save Money on Disposable Baby Diapers
Using Cloth Diapers Part-Time
Using cloth diapers part-time can be a great way to save money on disposable baby diapers. Cloth diapers are reusable, so you won’t have to buy as many disposable diapers, and they can be a more cost-effective option in the long run.
By using cloth diapers part-time, you can reduce your overall diaper expenses without committing to using cloth diapers full-time.
Try Some Diaper-Free Time
Another way to save money on disposable baby diapers is to give your baby some diaper-free time. This means letting your baby go without a diaper for a little while each day. Not only can this help you save money on diapers, but it can also be good for your baby’s skin and can help prevent diaper rash.
Elimination Communication
Elimination communication (EC) is another method that can help you save money on disposable diapers.
EC involves observing your baby’s cues and signals to determine when they need to go to the bathroom, and then holding them over a potty or toilet to let them go. Though it sounds nutty, many parents have had success training their babies to use the potty very early using this method, which means a lot fewer diapers.
Elimination communication can take some time and effort to learn, but the rewards are many if you’re able to do it.
Get Diaper Samples
Many manufacturers offer samples of their disposable baby diapers for free.
By asking for samples, you can try out different brands and types of diapers without having to buy a whole pack. This can help you find the diaper that works best for your baby while also saving you money.
I was given a lot of disposable diapers by signing up for registry programs, like Babies R’Us and the Amazon Baby Registry, and going to local baby exhibitions in my area.
Conclusion: You Can Spend Less on Disposable Diapers with Some Planning
Saving money on disposable baby diapers is possible with a little bit of planning and effort.
By buying in bulk, using coupons and promo codes, trying different brands, choosing the right size, using cloth diapers part-time, giving your baby diaper-free time, looking for diaper samples, and subscribing to diaper delivery services, you can reduce your overall diaper expenses without sacrificing your baby’s comfort and well-being.
With these tips in mind, you can keep your baby dry without breaking the bank.
For more help choosing and using disposable diapers, check out our full guide on shopping for disposable diapers here.
