Monthly Diaper & Wipes Costs: What Parents Can Expect in the First Year
One of the first recurring baby expenses new parents plan for is diapers and wipes. While the exact cost varies depending on brand and usage, having a realistic monthly range helps you budget with confidence.
This guide breaks down what you can expect per month in the U.S. during your baby’s first year, based on average diaper and wipe consumption.
What Affects Monthly Diaper Cost
Several factors influence how much you’ll spend each month:
- Your baby’s age (newborns go through more diapers)
- The brand you choose (premium vs. store brand)
- The size of the diaper (larger sizes cost more per unit)
- How often your baby is changed
- Subscription discounts or bulk purchases
Average Monthly Diaper Cost (U.S.)
Newborns typically use 10–12 diapers per day, while older babies need fewer changes.
| Age | Approx. Diapers/Day | Monthly Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| 0–3 months | 10–12 | $70–$100/month |
| 3–6 months | 8–10 | $60–$90/month |
| 6–12 months | 6–8 | $50–$80/month |
So on average, most U.S. families spend $60–$100 per month on diapers during the first year.
Average Monthly Wipes Cost (U.S.)
Wipes are a smaller but consistent part of monthly baby expenses. The number you use depends on brand thickness, how often you wipe, and lifestyle (on-the-go vs. mostly at home).
Most parents spend $10–$25 per month on wipes.
Combined Monthly Total
When diapers and wipes are combined, the total monthly baby care cost is typically $70–$145 per month. This means the first-year diaper and wipe cost usually falls between $840 and $1,740 per year.
Quick Reference Table
| Baby Age | Diapers/Month | Diaper Cost | Wipes Cost | Total Monthly |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0–3 months | ~300–360 | $70–$100 | $10–$20 | $80–$120 |
| 3–6 months | ~240–300 | $60–$90 | $10–$20 | $70–$110 |
| 6–12 months | ~180–240 | $50–$80 | $10–$25 | $60–$105 |
Final Takeaway
If you’re budgeting for your baby’s first year, a realistic monthly estimate for diapers and wipes in the U.S. is $70–$145, depending on brand choice, size, and usage.
Planning ahead with a safe average — around $100 per month — gives you a comfortable baseline, especially in the first six months when diaper use is highest.