Price of a baby diaper: what is the monthly budget?
Choosing a good-quality diaper is essential for your child's well-being. You need to pay close attention to the composition of diapers, as baby's skin is very fragile. Especially since during the first few months of his life, he will use around 6 to 8 diapers a day. This is where the question of cost comes into play. Which diapers to buy: brand names or distributors? What's your budget? We give you our advice in this article!
What is the average price of a baby diaper?
The average price of a baby diaper depends on several parameters. First of all, midwives and pediatricians recommend that you changing your baby at every feed or bottle-feeding, and as soon as he has had a bowel movement. That's around 4,300 diapers from the moment your baby is born to the moment he's potty-trained.
Price differences by size and age
The price of diapers depends on size and age for which they are intended. The larger the size, the higher the price. On the other hand, the bigger your baby gets, the fewer diapers he'll need. In the end, the diaper budget remains more or less the same, even as the child grows.
National brands and private labels
Most of the time, private-label diapers are less expensive than national-brand diapers. The average cost of a private label diaper is 0.24 euros, compared with 0.37 euros for national brands.
The place of purchase is also a factor, and diapers (excluding private label diapers) bought in supermarkets are generally more expensive than those you'll find on the Internet. The subscription method saves money and takes the mental load out of diaper shopping. Another advantage of subscription diapers is that they are often of much better quality.
Classic and panty diapers
Panty diapers are obviously more expensive than conventional diapers. Children are older, so the area to be absorbed is larger.
The price will depend on the quality of the diaper, i.e. the raw materials used, the composition and the bleaching method used.
Two bleaching methods are used:
- The ECF (Elementary Chlorine Free) method, which continues to use chlorine derivatives such as chlorine dioxide;
- The TCF (Total Chlorine Free) method, which bleaches diapers with hydrogen peroxide to avoid all risks.
Only 5% of diapers are currently bleached using the TCF method.
Natural materials are more expensive than plastics such as polypropylene or polyethylene. By choosing natural and organic materials that avoid endocrine disruptors, pesticides etc...
By their very nature, cloth diapers are more economical, but they do cost more to buy.
What is the monthly budget for baby diapers?
The monthly budget for your baby's diapers will vary according to each child's age, weight and size. We estimate a monthly budget of between 40 and 80 euros.
Quality diapers that respect your baby's sensitive skin are more expensive than conventional supermarket diapers. But there are ways to save money on your diaper purchases.
You can reduce your shopping budget by opting for quality diapers sold on the Internet by pack or by subscription.
As the brand sells directly to the customer, without an intermediary, the price offered is generally lower.
What are the price differences between diapers?
Price differences are due to several factors:
- Diaper size and feel on baby's skin;
- Absorbency capacity;
- The quality of the raw material;
- Whether the diaper is organic/natural or not.
Panty diapers are generally more expensive than conventional diapers, costing around 0.40 euros. Simple diapers can start at 0.10 euros per diaper, and go up to 1.66 euros for submersible diapers, for example.
It's also cheaper to buy diapers in bulk. Subscription systems also help to reduce price differences.
How to pay less for baby diapers?
When you become a parent, it's impossible to ignore the diaper budget. You have to find the right balance between your budget and providing your child with quality diapers. There are a few ways to save money on diapers.
Spot in-store promotions
Diaper brand promotions are fairly regular. Especially with private labels. Whether in-store or online, it's a good idea to keep an eye out for them, so you can save money by buying your diapers when they're on sale.
Buying cloth and reusable diapers
Cloth and reusable diapers are more economical (and ecological) alternatives to disposable diapers. They can be used many times, which makes them an investment at the time of purchase, but one that quickly pays for itself... Especially when you consider that baby uses around 2000 disposable diapers in his first year of life.
As your child grows and begins to potty train independently, you can continue to dress him or her in training pants. These models are similar to cloth diapers, but much thinner and more comfortable to wear. They're perfect for getting him used to wearing knickers later on, while leaving him with an absorbent undergarment.
Subscription diapers
Subscribing to a diaper subscription is a great way to save money on your diaper purchases. You can choose a no-obligation subscription, where you receive packs of diapers adapted to your baby's size.
Another advantage: it takes the mental load off your shoulders and means you always have an eye on your protective stock.
Generally speaking: diapers are often cheaper online than in-store (excluding private label diapers).
Average diaper price FAQ
What are the cheapest diapers?
The cheapest diapers are going to be private label diapers. They often offer discounts to attract parents to the store. You can also save money by opting for a diaper subscription.
Why are some diapers more expensive?
There are several reasons for the difference in diaper prices: The size of the diaper - the bigger the baby, the larger the absorption zone; The quality of the diaper in terms of the raw materials used, whether it's certified organic or not, whether it's made from natural and/or ecological materials, where it's made, etc.; The diaper's absorption capacity.
Where can I find free baby diapers?
It's usually possible to order trial packs before subscribing or buying a brand's diapers.