How to save money on diapers
Every parent and caregiver knows it -- buying diapers is no joke.
Infant formula, diapers and wipes are some of the most expensive items parents of little ones buy, because you always need them! Over the years, I have found some tricks, including buying in bulk, coupon clipping and sharing with friends and family.
How to save money on diapers
Wondering how to save money on diapers? Here are some tips from experts and my own personal experience.
1. Consider cloth diapers
It would be a disadvantage to your wallet -- and the environment -- if I didn't begin with this tip. Cloth diapers aren't an option for everyone, but if you have the time and patience to use cloth diapers at least part of the time, they can be very cost-effective.
You don't have to use cloth diapers 100% of the time. For example, if your child is in daycare, you can send them to school with disposable diapers but use cloth diapers at home. And many parents use disposable diapers overnight for their absorbancy.
Cloth diapers have changed for the better in recent years. They now come with Velcro and snaps, so parents no longer need to wrestle with sharp pins to hold them together. Many cloth diapers are also adjustable, so they can grow with your child. Babylist has a helpful list of popular cloth diapers and how to pick the diaper best for your family.
Most cloth diapers have insert options -- so you can remove the spoiled insert and replace it with a clean insert (instead of washing the whole diaper each time your child goes to the bathroom).
Cloth diapers even come in cute designs and prints. The downside to cloth diapers is the time it takes to clean them and run them through the washing machine. Here are some tips for washing cloth diapers.
The price of cloth diapers ranges greatly, from $20 for a multi-pack to over $50. It can be an investment to build up your stash of cloth diapers, so many cloth diaper parents recommend starting with just a few to make sure you like them. You can also buy gently-used cloth diapers at consignment stores, online or share among friends and family.
2. Add diapers and wipes to your baby registry
If someone is throwing you a baby shower, make sure you have diapers and wipes on your registry.
My mother-in-law held a "diaper raffle" at my baby shower -- anyone who brought a box of diapers or wipes of any size got a ticket, and there was a drawing for a prize at the end of the shower. Diapers and wipes are thoughtful gifts for any expecting parent -- they will always be used and appreciated.
3. Join a diaper loyalty program
Buying brand-name diapers can be a good choice if you join a loyalty program. Pampers, Huggies and Luvs all offer rewards for customers who purchase their products.
You can download an app for your favorite diaper brand and scan QR codes each time you purchase diapers or wipes -- including those you get as gifts. The points add up over time. Pampers Club, for example, offers digital coupons up to $25 off diapers once you build up enough points.
If you shop online, Amazon Prime members who subscribe to Amazon Family can get up to 20% off diapers, baby food and other baby items.
4. Buy in bulk
Wholesale stores like BJ's, Costco and Sam's Club offer diapers in bulk, which could save you money. When buying in bulk (or any other time), look at the cost per unit to make sure you're getting a good deal. The cost per unit is often on the price tag, but you can divide the cost of the diapers by the number of diapers inside to determine the unit price yourself.
Buying in bulk is often worth the price, but do the math first, because sometimes you can snag the same deal or an even better price by shopping at your usual store. If you do find a great deal, go ahead and stock up! If your child outgrows the diapers before you can use them, unopened boxes of diapers can usually be returned as long as you save your receipt.
5. Shop with coupons
You might find diaper deals and coupons in unexpected places, like drugstores. Sign up for email alerts from stores like Walgreens, CVS, Target, Walmart and more to be alerted for digital coupons.
6. Share among friends and family
Finally, share and reuse unused diapers! It's very common for babies to grow out of diapers before you can finish a box. Trade and gift diapers to family, friends and coworkers, and see if they will do the same!
Give back or get help with the NC Diaper Bank
We're often so focused on finding the best prices for our own families that we forget about the families who are struggling to afford diapers at all. The North Carolina Diaper Bank has resources for struggling families and a link to donate.
