How Many Newborn Diapers Do I Need?

Babies go through an unimaginable amount of diapers those first few weeks. Just when you think you're done for the day, the baby has another blowout. It's the glory of parenthood. For this reason, you must be prepared with a stockpile of diapers. Don't fill up your house with diapers until you truly understand what your baby will actually need. It all begs the question, how many newborn diapers do I need?

The Beginning

Don't buy the entire row of newborn diapers. It's a rookie mistake. You may hate the first brand you try. You may actually start in size one instead of newborn. Most newborns gain weight during the first month of their life. Those newborn diapers given to you at the baby shower may be worthless really fast. You have to figure out the right fit, brand, size, and cost that is best for your family before you dive in. Try a few different brands at first. Buy one pack of newborns then stock up on the next size.

If you've ever been around a newborn baby, you know how easy it is to go through a dozen diapers a day. Experienced parents may know what brand and type work best for them, but new parents often have a rude awakening when it comes to diapers.

Changing Time

You'll probably change your baby every two to three hours. This doesn't mean in between changes the baby won't have a blowout. Those are always fun. Make sure to check your baby's diaper because yeast infections and diaper rashes can happen if they aren't changed in time.

Size Up

The weight on diapers is confusing to some people. The general thing to remember is that it is always best to size up. You'll know when it's time to go to the next size when the diaper leaks out of the top in the back, the skin is irritated, and/or they have markings around the leg openings or waste. The front top of the diaper should sit at least two inches below their bellow button. The back should also sit higher to lower the threat of a blowout.

Cloth Diapers

Cloth diapers are reusable, so their rules are a little different than disposable diapers. You should have about two dozen onhand at first. This may sound like a lot, but you'll go through 20 in two days. Cloth diapers are adjustable as your baby grows making the cost worth it to many parents.

Cost Of Disposable Diapers

The cost of diapers may provide a little sticker shock at first, but it's really not too crazy. If you think about it, a one-week supply will probably set you back $20. It averages out to about $.25 cents per diaper when you buy in bulk. The thing to remember is that you aren't only buying diapers. You'll also need to stock up on diaper creams and diaper wipes.

Disposable Wipes

Wipes are essential to each change. You may use one wipe or you may use 15 wipes in one change. It all depends on the damage done by the baby. If you average about 3,000 diapers changed that first year, think about 15,000 wipes. This may sound overwhelming, but the good news is wipes don't go too fast. Always have a few wipes packs on hand so you don't find yourself in a bind. The great news is that even after your child is potty trained, you can use wipes to clean off little messes around the house.

Ways To Save Money On Diapers

You don't have to spend your life savings on diapers. There are many ways you can save money. Buying in bulk is one of the best ways.

Bulk. If your baby is in solid size for a while, go ahead and get the largest package at that time. Don't buy a million newborn diapers because they won't be in that size for long.

Sales. Check out your local supermarket or bulk stores for sales on diapers. Many times the best deals are often at drugstores. You get special discounts when you purchase special items with their programs.

Coupons. There are always coupons for diapers on websites, emails, and in the newspaper.

Cashback Apps. Coupons and cashback apps often go hand-in-hand.

Delivery Options. You can often save money on subscribe-and-save options. They also deliver right to your door and often offer a free trial.

So, how many newborn diapers do I need? The answer is that not all babies are made the same. It all depends on the brand and the type of diapers that meet your family's needs. The bests thing to remember is to have a small stockpile of diapers so you save money and don't stress out when you realize you're on the last precious diaper.