Diapers are expensive. Super expensive. On the order of a new car downpayment expensive.
Most estimates I’ve seen online put the total cost between $1,500 – $3,000 for a single child in disposables, on an average potty training timeline. That’s one reason I opted to use “pocket” cloth diapers for our new little baby.
Unfortunately, for reasons outlined here, cloth diapers are not an option for everyone – especially families who are struggling with poverty. That’s one reason we’re partnering up for a month-long effort with RocketCityMom.com this September called “The Great Diaper Drive.”
Join our effort September 1st – 30th!
We’re collecting disposable diapers for local babies in need, to be distributed through a local non-profit called Manna House. Details on how to donate here.
As our effort ramps up, I thought it’d be a nice idea to dig up tips for all mommas and dads on how to buy disposables more cheaply. It can be done.
Basic Tips
1. Buy in bulk (look for cheaper cost-per-unit or cost-per-diaper)
Make like you’re headed to Costco. In fact, Costco (or any other warehouse shopping outlet) is a great place to buy “bulk” diapers. They’re often (although not always) much cheaper when purchased in packs of 100 + than when bought in smaller sizes. Economies of scale.
2. Buy store brands
Store brands are often way cheaper than Huggies & Pampers. Just the other day I picked up a package of Size 3 for Jane (which we use on the occasions when she has developed diaper rash) and saved at least $3.00 over the premium brand they had on the shelf.
Huggies Little Snugglers Diapers, Size Newborn, 76ct going for $20.23 on Diapers.com
3. Stock up during sales
I just did this with baby food – stocking an entire pantry shelf with Stage 2 jars & pouches. Jane is not anywhere close to eating Stage 2 (6 months +) but she will be eventually and certainly within the expiration date. My husband laughed out loud looking at our overstuffed pantry but the principle applies to diapers too. Buy whatever size IS on sale WHEN it’s on sale.
Advanced Strategies
1. Combine coupons
Make like TLC’s extreme couponing masters and keep an folder of clipped coupons (or printed ones from the web) that you can combine for maximum savings. The Coupon Centsation has for example an excellent blog post showing how you can MAKE money off a Huggies Diaper purchase starting this Sunday, September 8th! Yes, this strategy requires some work but if you’re a detail person…
2. Sign up for online promotions and fliers
Diaper companies are all over social media now, just like we all are. Take a minute to like your favorite brands or sign up for rewards programs. Send letters or emails to diaper companies to share your experiences. You may just get some rewards in return.
up&up™ Baby Diapers – Bulk Pack (Size 3) featured @ Target.com for $24.99 – $26.00
Pampers and Huggies also offer loyalty rewards programs. Diaper packages will feature codes to enter online after registering for an account and adding codes found on other products like baby wipes can add to your rewards!
3. Shop online
Diapers.com and Amazon.com. Can’t lose with best price comparison.
Michelle's Baby Blog 