A couple of months after I had my son, a friend who hadn't yet had kids curiously inquired about the cost of diapers, baby wipes, and formula [1]. "How much does all that stuff add up to?", she asked. "More than you'd think", I answered before pausing to mentally calculate my best estimation. Yup, it was a lot.
While I've never been a coupon-cutter (time is money, right?), I'm still a bargain-hunter. My Amazon Prime and Costco memberships were especially handy for finding good deals that included fast, free shipping, something you're especially grateful for during those early days when you can barely muster the energy to leave the house, let alone drive to a store with an infant for the sole purpose of buying a box of diapers.
When you're budgeting for a new family member, there are so many questions you have to ask yourself. Is buying in bulk always best? Do stores that pride themselves on being affordable really offer the lowest price? Where can I get the cheapest price and best shipping option without leaving my home? While there are certainly things besides price that play an important part in choosing a product, such as brand loyalty and ingredients, it was still an eye-opening exercise. Here's what I discovered:
The Product: Huggies Little Movers Diapers, Size 6
While some parents warn against buying diapers in bulk, it's a move that can save you a ton of money. Just be mindful of how your baby's diapers are fitting. As soon as you notice the fit being more snug, size up the next time you shop.
- Costco: 120 diapers for $43 + free shipping
- Target: 104 diapers for $43 + free shipping
- Amazon: 104 diapers for $37 (unless you subscribe and pay $35) + free shipping
- Walmart: 112 diapers for $61 + free shipping
Best deal: Amazon [2] if you're willing to subscribe to a re-occurring order. For those who aren't tied to name brands, you can save even more by buying Costco's Kirkland Signature Supreme diapers [3] at $39 for a box of 120.
The Product: Similac Pro-Sensitive Formula
Breast milk may not be the best option for everyone, but it sure is cheaper! Parents looking for a way to save on formula will definitely appreciate this tip.
- Costco: 68 oz for $70 + free shipping
- Target: 22.5 oz for $29/135 oz for $174 + free shipping
- Amazon: 22.5 oz for $29/136 oz for $200 + free shipping
- Walmart: 29.8 oz for $33/119 oz for $133 + free shipping
Best deal: Costco [4]
The Product: Huggies Natural Care Plus Wipes
Unlike diapers, baby wipes are an even safer bulk purchase since you don't have to worry about sizing. They also come in handy for cleaning sticky hands, especially on the go. We compared the cost of Huggies Natural Care Plus Wipes to see which retailer had the best deal.
- Costco: 1,152 wipes for $25 + free shipping
- Target: 648 wipes for $15 + $6 shipping (not available in stores)
- Amazon: 1,152 wipes for $29 + free shipping
- Walmart: 1,152 wipes for $38
Best deal: Costco [5]