Quick Answer
You will likely need between 70-90 diapers per week for a newborn baby. This equates to 280-360 diapers for the first month. However, every baby is different so you may need more or less. Stock up on various sizes to accommodate growth spurts.
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, this can vary significantly between babies. Some newborns may only go through 6 per day, while others may require up to 15 or more.
Factors that affect diaper usage in newborns:
- Baby’s size – Larger babies will require bigger diapers that hold more.
- Feeding method – Breastfed babies tend to have more frequent bowel movements.
- Health issues – Diarrhea, constipation, etc. can increase or decrease usage.
- Baby’s bladder size – Some babies have smaller bladders and urinate more often.
As a new parent, you’ll quickly learn your own baby’s habits and optimal diapering schedule. Expect frequent diaper changes around the clock in the first couple months.
How Many Diapers Will I Need Per Week?
If your newborn uses 8-12 diapers per day, that equals 56-84 diapers per week. Most experts recommend having 70-90 newborn diapers per week as a safe estimate.
Here is an example breakdown of newborn diaper usage per week:
| Low end: | 8 diapers/day x 7 days = 56 diapers/week |
|---|---|
| Average: | 10 diapers/day x 7 days = 70 diapers/week |
| High end: | 12 diapers/day x 7 days = 84 diapers/week |
This range allows leeway for days when your baby may go through more diapers than normal. It’s better to have extras than to run out!
How Many Diapers Will I Need for the First Month?
For the first month, you can estimate needing 280-360 newborn size diapers based on using 70-90 per week.
Here’s a breakdown of the newborn diaper quantity needed for the first 4 weeks:
| Week 1 | 70-90 diapers |
|---|---|
| Week 2 | 70-90 diapers |
| Week 3 | 70-90 diapers |
| Week 4 | 70-90 diapers |
| Total for Month 1 | 280-360 diapers |
Buying in bulk packages can help minimize costs. Stock up on at least 300 newborn diapers to be prepared for the first month.
How Many Diapers Will I Need After the First Month?
Diaper needs tend to increase significantly after the newborn phase as babies grow bigger and start eating solid foods. Here are some estimates:
| Months 2-3 | 90-120 diapers/week 360-480 diapers/month |
|---|---|
| Months 4-7 | 120-150 diapers/week 480-600 diapers/month |
| Months 8-12 | 140-180 diapers/week 560-720 diapers/month |
As babies begin eating solids around 6 months, diaper usage jumps due to messier bowel movements. Toilet training may begin around 18-24 months, gradually decreasing diaper needs.
Stock up on larger sizes like 1, 2, and 3 as your baby grows. Consider buying different size bundles or variety packs.
Newborn Diapering Tips
Here are some handy tips for diapering your newborn:
- Use diaper cream at each change to prevent rashes.
- Change diapers promptly when soiled or wet.
- Gently clean the diaper area and allow air contact when possible.
- Use gentle, unscented wipes to keep skin clean.
- Change diapers during night feedings too.
- Have a diaper pail and bags handy for disposing used diapers.
- Set up stations around the house for easy access.
The right diapering practices will keep your baby comfortable, healthy and happy!
Choosing a Diaper Brand
With so many options on the market, it can be tricky choosing the best diaper brand for your newborn. Here are some top picks to consider:
Pampers Swaddlers
Pampers are a popular choice known for their softness and absorbency. The newborn specific Swaddlers line has a wetness indicator stripe and contoured umbilical cord notch.
Huggies Little Snugglers
Huggies Little Snugglers have a pocketed waistband to prevent leaks and extra absorbent layers. The hypoallergenic materials are gentle on delicate newborn skin.
The Honest Company Diapers
These diapers contain organic cotton and plant-based materials. They are chlorine and fragrance free for babies with sensitive skin.
Cuties Diapers
Cuties diapers are made of bamboo viscose known for its soft, breathable feel. They contain no chlorine, latex, or fragrances.
Andy Pandy Diapers
Andy Pandy uses food-grade materials and adhesives designed for sensitive skin. Their eco-friendly diapers are biodegradable and compostable.
Earth + Eden Diapers
This brand uses sustainably sourced materials and organic cotton. Their diapers are hypoallergenic and free of chlorine, lotions, and fragrances.
Consider trying a trial pack or variety bundle to find your perfect diaper!
Cloth vs. Disposable Diapers
When it comes to diapering your newborn, you’ll need to decide between using cloth diapers or disposables. Here’s an overview of the differences:
Cloth Diapers
- Reusable – Can be washed and reused over and over
- Eco-friendly – More sustainable for the environment
- Cost effective in the long run
- Come in cute patterns and styles
- Require laundry and proper care
- More hands-on process for changes
Disposable Diapers
- Convenient – Just throw away when soiled
- Better containment of messes
- Easier changes especially when out
- Range of absorbency levels available
- Can be expensive over time
- Not as environmentally friendly
Many parents choose a hybrid approach, using a mix of both disposables and cloth diapers. Try out different options and choose what works best for your family!
Diapering While Traveling
Traveling with a newborn requires some special considerations when it comes to diapering on the go. Here are some handy tips:
- Pack twice as many diapers as you think you’ll need.
- Bring a portable changing pad for clean changes anywhere.
- Keep a diaper bag stocked and organized for easy access.
- Have refillable wipes pouches to reduce waste.
- Bring extra bags for containing soiled diapers and clothing.
- If flying, don’t count airplane bathrooms for changes.
- Pack backups like disposables if normally use cloth.
- Bring along any diaper creams, powders, or other essentials.
Planning ahead takes the stress out of diapering when traveling with baby!
Signs It’s Time to Size Up Diapers
As your newborn grows in the early months, you’ll need to size up their diapers to ensure a good fit. Here are some signs it’s time to move to the next diaper size:
- Diapers leak frequently or don’t contain messes.
- You’re changing diapers way more than normal.
- Diapers seem tight on baby and leave marks.
- There’s less than 1 inch of room left around waist and legs.
- Diapers slide around and seem loose.
- Baby is nearing top weight range for current size.
- Rise feels too short and doesn’t reach belly button.
- You’ve adjusted tabs to biggest setting.
Go up a size whenever diapers start feeling snug and leak-prone. Don’t wait until they’re bursting at the seams. Most babies grow out of newborn sizes around 10-14 lbs.
Newborn Diapering Supplies
Aside from the diapers themselves, there are some other supplies that can make diapering a newborn easier:
- Wipes – Stock up on soft, gentle baby wipes for cleaning at each change.
- Diaper cream – Apply with each change to protect delicate skin.
- Changing pad – Provides a clean surface to change baby anywhere.
- Diaper pail – Contains odors and keeps used diapers contained.
- Diaper bags – For disposing or storing soiled diapers to wash.
- Diaper rash ointment – Soothes and heals red, irritated skin.
- Changing table – A designated place for safe, easy diaper changes.
Having these supplies on hand makes diapering a breeze!
Budgeting for Diapers
Diapers are a big, recurring baby expense. Here are some tips for budgeting and saving on the diapering costs:
- Estimate your monthly usage based on diapers per day.
- Take advantage of sales, coupons, and rewards programs.
- Buy in bulk online for bulk discount pricing.
- Use cloth diapers to lower costs long-term.
- Join Amazon Family or subscribe-and-save for regular deliveries.
- Consider generic, store brands for cheaper options.
- Buy a mix of sizes to accommodate growth spurts.
- Split costs with other caregivers like grandparents.
With some savvy planning, you can stock up on diapers without breaking the bank. Prioritize your baby’s comfort and health above all else.
Conclusion
Estimating your newborn’s diaper needs may take some trial and error. Every baby is different! Aim for having 70-90 diapers per week in the early months as a safe bet. Stock up on at least 300 diapers to start and buy more sizes as your baby rapidly grows in the first year. With the right diapering supplies and strategies, you’ll be prepared to keep your little one clean, dry, and comfortable.
