Welcoming your baby home is one of life’s sweetest milestones. But it can also be pretty overwhelming. Naturally this life changing event comes with a lot of practical questions. One of the most common: How many newborn diapers should you actually buy before your little one arrives?
While you want to be prepared for every case and not fall short on diapers, you also want to avoid having too many and your baby outgrowing them before they're used. So, how many newborn diapers do you need?
At Pi Baby, we know every baby (and every family) is a little different. But with some simple guidelines and a clear understanding of both disposable and cloth diapers, you can feel prepared without over- or under-stocking.
How Many Diapers Will I Need For A Newborn?
So, let’s start with the basics. Have you ever asked yourself how many diapers does a baby or especially a newborn use a day? Then we have you covered.
Newborns typically go through 8 to 12 diapers per day in the first few weeks. Their organs are small and work fast, which means frequent changes, especially shortly after every feeding. That adds up quickly:
- Around 70 - 90 diapers a week
- Or roughly 280 - 360 diapers per month
Of course, every baby is different and their rhythm is unique. Some babies use less diapers than others. Another common question is how long babies are in newborn diapers or how many diapers newborns actually do need. This depends on your child, which is why flexibility is key.
Using Disposable Diapers vs. Cloth Diapers
Disposable diapers are popular among parents because of their convenience. Especially when changing diapers in the middle of the night. Or when you prefer a quick and easy clean-up. When choosing disposables, look for:
- Gentle, breathable materials for sensitive newborn skin
- Wetness indicators for easy checking
- Eco-friendly options if you prefer a more sustainable choice
We recommend you get 1 - 2 large boxes (around 250 - 300 diapers) in the beginning in newborn size. When your baby grows you can get size 1 diapers (often within the first month).
Tip: Many babies outgrow the newborn size quickly. Sometimes even in just 2 - 3 weeks. Instead of over-stocking, start with one bulk pack and adjust as you go.
Cloth diapers on the contrary are a thoughtful, sustainable choice. And one that many Pi Baby families love for their softness and long-term value. You can simply wash them and afterwards use them again. How many cloth diapers you’ll need depends mostly on how often you plan to do laundry:
- Washing every day: 18 - 20 diapers
- Washing every other day: 24 - 30 diapers
- Washing every 3 days: 36+ diapers
Apart from our soft, easy-to-wash cloth diapers made from natural fibers and gentle elastics, it’s also helpful to have:
- 6 - 8 newborn inserts for extra absorbency
- 2 - 3 wet bags for storing used diapers when out and about
- A few liners to make clean-ups easier
And what about mixing both? That’s completely okay. Many families find that a hybrid approach works best, using disposables for nights or outings, and cloth at home. This balance still reduces quite an amount of waste, it keeps your stash manageable and it also lets you discover which system truly fits your lifestyle. We believe there’s no one “right” way to diaper, only what feels right for you and your baby.
How Many Diapers Size 1 Will I Need?
Babies grow in what feels like the blink of an eye. That’s what makes it so difficult to find the right size in diapers. Apart from knowing how many newborn diapers to stock, it’s also crucial to understand your baby’s growth and when to move up a size.
Because a diaper that’s too small can feel tight and uncomfortable, while one that’s too large can lead to leaks and restless sleep. As a gentle guide, here’s how to tell when it’s time for the next size:
- Tabs no longer meet easily at the waist or need to be pulled too tight
- Red marks appear around your baby’s legs or tummy
- Frequent leaks happen even though you’re changing regularly
Most brands categorize diapers from newborn through size 6, with newborn size generally fitting babies up to 10 lbs. Some little ones may even skip this size entirely, while others stay in it for a few weeks. Since newborns often double their birth weight by five months, you’ll likely move to a size 1 diaper (approx. 8 - 14 lbs) sooner than expected.
Most babies use about 6 - 8 diapers a day once they move into size 1. Plan for roughly 250 - 300 size 1 diapers per month. Depending on how quickly your baby grows and how many diapers a day they go through.
That’s why we always recommend keeping your diaper stock flexible. A mix of newborn and size 1 diapers gives you room to adjust as your baby grows. And don’t underestimate the value of your support network: seasoned parents can share real-world insights on fit, comfort, and timing that make the transition smoother.
Smart Tips For Budget, Storage and Everyday Ease
Diapering may be one of the biggest everyday routines of early parenthood. But with a little planning, you will easily get a routine. Here are some tips for a more stress-free everyday life with your little one:
- Plan your budget smartly. Watch for sales or bundles, but avoid overstocking smaller sizes, since babies grow fast!
- Ease into cloth. Start with a few quality pieces and build your collection gradually as you find what fits best.
- Store thoughtfully. Keep diapers in a cool, dry spot and always have one open pack and one backup within reach. Diaper bags will be your best friend when it comes to storing your baby essentials when on the road.
- Rotate your stock. Use smaller sizes first and keep larger ones behind to prevent waste.
- Keep it clean. Wash your hands before and after changes, and keep a lined bin handy to control odors.
- Test before committing. Babies have preferences. A little experimenting helps you find the perfect fit.
And most importantly: don’t stress about getting it perfect. Diapering is something you learn as you go and you’ll soon find your own rhythm.
Choosing Right with Pi Baby Boutique
At Pi Baby, we believe thoughtful preparation means fewer surprises and more comfort for you and your little one. Whether you lean towards disposable convenience, cloth sustainability, or a mix of both. We want you to feel empowered and safe when stocking up on diapers. Rather than overwhelmed and uncertain.
We’re here to make that journey a little simpler, with beautiful and thoughtfully made essentials such as diaper backpacks, wet bags and more, that support your growing family. From consultation to purchase, we stand with parents. Explore our diapering essentials and discover the little details that make everyday care a little more special.
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
How many newborn size diapers will I need?
Most families go through about 8 - 12 newborn diapers per day, which means you’ll need roughly 300 diapers for the first month. Every baby is unique, but this gives a good baseline.
How long will 200 newborn diapers last?
This really depends on your child but let’s say your baby uses around 10 newborn diapers a day. Then a pack of 200 will last about 20 days. Keep in mind that diaper needs decrease as your baby grows and their digestion settles into a rhythm.
Do you need newborn diapers or just size 1?
That depends on your baby’s birth weight and growth rate. Newborn size fits up to 10 lbs, while size 1 covers roughly 8 - 14 lbs. Some babies skip newborn sizes altogether, while others wear them for several weeks. So it’s smart to have a mix of both sizes on hand.
How many diapers does a newborn use in 24 hours?
Expect around 10 - 12 dirty diapers a day in those early weeks. Frequent changes are normal and healthy. They just show that your baby is feeding well and staying hydrated. Parents often use this as a way to track how many dirty diapers a newborn should have each day.
When do you switch from newborn to size 1?
You’ll know it’s time to move up when the diaper feels snug, tabs don’t meet comfortably, or you notice red marks or leaks. Most babies switch after 2 - 4 weeks, depending on growth. Tracking how many of each diaper size you go through can help you plan when to stock up on diapers size 1 next.
