As a new parent, one of the essential things you need to buy for your newborn baby is diapers. But with so many options and sizes available, it can be confusing to figure out exactly how many boxes of newborn size diapers you actually need. This article will provide a detailed guide on determining the right number of diaper boxes to purchase before your baby arrives.
How many diapers does a newborn use per day?
Newborns urinate and have bowel movements very frequently, going through 8-12 diapers per day on average. However, each baby is different. Some newborns may only go through 6-8 diapers, while others may need upwards of 15 per day.
As a general rule of thumb:
- Newborns use 8-12 diapers per day
- Change diapers every 2-3 hours
But you will get a better sense of your own baby’s needs within the first couple of weeks. Monitor their eating, sleeping and bathroom habits to gauge how often you need to change them.
How many diapers are in a box?
The number of diapers per box depends on the brand and size. Here is an overview of the typical amount:
- Newborn size: 90-120 diapers per box
- Size 1: 60-90 diapers per box
- Size 2: 50-70 diapers per box
Popular brands like Pampers Swaddlers, Huggies Little Snugglers, and Honest Co tend to have boxes on the higher end (100-120 diapers) for newborn size. Generic brands may only contain 80-90.
Always check the label to confirm the exact diaper count before purchasing.
How often should you change newborn diapers?
Newborn diapers should be changed frequently, about every 2-3 hours. Some key times to ensure you are changing the diaper:
- After waking up from a nap
- Before and after feedings
- Before going out or having visitors
- Before bedtime
You should also change the diaper immediately if:
- The diaper looks full
- You notice leaking
- Baby is uncomfortable and crying
Sticking to a 2-3 hour change schedule will help avoid diaper rash and urinary tract infections. Get into the habit of frequent checking and changing right from the start.
How long do newborns fit into newborn diapers?
Most babies will fit into newborn diapers for the first 6-10 weeks. But this can vary depending on how big your baby is at birth and their growth rate. Here are some general newborn diaper timeframe guidelines:
- Small newborns (under 7 lbs): Up to 3 months
- Average newborns (7-9 lbs): 6-8 weeks
- Large newborns (9 lbs +): 4-6 weeks
You will know it’s time to size up when:
- Diapers start leaking often
- There are red marks around the legs from tight elastic
- You need to fasten the tabs on the last rows of snaps
Every baby is different, so sizes are just general estimates. Pay attention to fit and adjust according to your baby’s growth.
How many newborn diaper boxes should I buy?
As a general rule of thumb, here is a basic calculation of how many newborn diaper boxes you will need:
- Estimate 10 diaper changes per day = 70 diapers per week
- Most newborn boxes have 100 diapers
- So 1 box lasts roughly 1.5 weeks
Therefore, you will need:
- 1 box per week if only buying as needed
However, here are some tips for determining the right newborn diaper supply:
- Buy 3-4 boxes to start if stocking up initially
- Re-order when down to the last 1-2 boxes
- Buy different brands/styles to test what works best
- Store unopened boxes in a cool, dry place
- Size up once your baby consistently leaks out of newborn size
Tips for Buying Newborn Diapers
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when buying your newborn diaper supply:
- Buy more than you think you need – It’s better to have extras than run out. Diapers are a necessity.
- Stock up on multiple sizes – Have the next size ready for when your baby grows.
- Choose a reputable brand – Established brands like Huggies and Pampers are recommended for safety and quality.
- Compare deals and prices – Shop sales and bulk packs to maximize value.
- Try different styles – See if you prefer tabs, velcro, natural, etc.
- Buy unscented – Babies have sensitive skin that may get irritated.
- Ask for diapers as a gift – Family will often happily provide packages at your baby shower.
Stock up wisely, but don’t stress too much – you can always make quick runs to the store if you run low before your baby grows into the next size!
When to Size Up from Newborn Diapers
Here are some common signs it is time to move your baby into size 1 diapers:
- Leaking – If you notice frequent leaking around the legs or sides.
- Gaps around legs – If there is loose fabric with gaps around your baby’s thighs.
- Unfastened tabs – Fastening the tabs on the last row of snaps.
- Blowouts – Diapers that don’t contain messes and lead to blowouts.
- Outgrowing weight range – When your baby is over 10-14 lbs.
- Over 6-10 weeks old – Most babies grow out of newborn size by 10 weeks.
Every baby grows at different rates, so move up sizes based on fit rather than age. Size 1 diapers have expanded capacities and snugger fits to contain bigger babies.
Newborn Diapering Essentials
In addition to diaper boxes, here are some other newborn diapering supplies and accessories to have on hand:
- Diaper pail – For conveniently containing used diapers and odors.
- Changing pad – Provides a soft, clean surface when changing diapers.
- Diaper cream – Prevents and treats diaper rash.
- Wipes – Gently clean your baby’s skin during changes.
- Changing table – A safe, ergonomic place to change your baby.
- Wet/dry bags – For storing clean and dirty diapers on-the-go.
- Burp cloths – Multi-use cloth to clean up messes and spit up.
Having all the necessary diapering supplies and accessories in arm’s reach makes changing newborns much easier whether at home or on-the-go.
Sample Newborn Diapering Schedule
Keeping your newborn’s diaper regularly changed is key for their comfort and health. Here is an example diaper change schedule:
| Time | Action |
|---|---|
| 7 AM | Wake up change |
| 9 AM | Change after feeding |
| 11 AM | Nap time change |
| 1 PM | Change after feeding |
| 3 PM | Nap time change |
| 5 PM | Change after feeding |
| 7 PM | Change into night diaper |
| 10 PM | Dreamfeed change |
Your actual schedule will vary based on your baby’s routine. The important thing is to change the diaper every 2-3 hours, or more frequently if needed.
FAQs
How many diapers does a newborn use a day?
Newborns use 8-12 diapers per day on average, but each baby is different. Change newborns every 2-3 hours, or more often if the diaper is soiled.
How long should a newborn wear a diaper?
Newborn diapers should be changed every 2-3 hours. Letting a soiled diaper sit increases the risk of diaper rash and infections.
What size diapers do most newborns wear?
Most newborns fit into size newborn diapers for the first 6-10 weeks before sizing up to size 1. Preemies may be in newborn size for even longer.
How do I know when to switch sizes?
It’s time to size up diapers when your newborn has frequent leaks, gaps in fit around the thighs, reaching the last row of snaps, or they are over 10 pounds.
When should I buy diapers?
Aim to buy newborn diapers by your third trimester. Stock up on multiple boxes before birth and re-order when you are down to 1-2 boxes. Buy more rather than less.
