Why Diapers Are Becoming Increasingly Difficult to Find

When I welcomed my first child in 2014, I was blessed with a baby shower that had nearly 100 attendees. The thought of being in a crowded room like that now gives me anxiety, but that’s beside the point. Despite the frequent nudges for moms to create baby registries, most guests rarely consult them. As a result, I didn’t need to purchase diapers for my eldest until he was over a year old—I had an abundance of them. This was a relief, especially since I had no clue about the steep prices of newborn diapers.

Fast forward to the arrival of my second child four months ago, and I was hit with a harsh reality: the dreadful diaper shortage of 2021. Yes, you read that correctly—families are facing significant challenges in keeping their babies diapered.

According to the National Diaper Bank Network, one in three families in the U.S. experiences diaper need, with 5 million infants and toddlers living in low-income households. Unfortunately, government assistance programs like WIC and food stamps do not cover diaper costs. The ongoing pandemic has exacerbated this issue, pushing more families to seek help from local diaper banks as they deal with job losses and financial strain. A recent article in the New York Times highlighted how the pandemic disrupted global supply chains, leading to shortages in many products, including diapers. Major manufacturers like Kimberly-Clark and Procter & Gamble have also raised prices on baby products this year.

Currently, the average price for a pack of 100 diapers ranges from $30 to $50. Given that newborns can go through 10 to 12 diapers daily, many families find themselves spending $75 or more monthly for just one baby’s diaper needs. I know several mothers with multiple children in diapers, and for some, this financial strain could mean choosing between diapering their child and affording groceries or other essentials.

The guilt parents feel when they can’t provide basic necessities is taking a mental toll that often goes unnoticed by society. Beyond the costs, there is an actual shortage of diapers! Even families who can afford them may struggle to find stock in stores. As a mother of a four-month-old, I’ve had to visit several retailers just to find the right diaper size. Just last week, I considered putting my baby in diapers two sizes too big while on vacation, simply because none of the local stores had her size available. Not everyone has the luxury of time or resources to navigate this crisis.

In February, Senator Lisa McCarthy introduced The End Diaper Need Act of 2021, which proposes funding to support low-income families struggling with diaper needs through the Social Services Block Grant Program. It would also allow states to utilize Medicaid funds for medically necessary diapers. However, we’ll have to wait and see how quickly the government acts on this matter.

In the meantime, if you’re affected by the diaper shortage or the financial fallout of the pandemic, there are local resources available to assist families in need.

Here’s What You Need to Know About Diaper Banks

Diaper banks and pantries are nonprofit organizations dedicated to alleviating diaper need by collecting, storing, and distributing free diapers to families in need. They gather diapers through community drives, donations, and direct purchases with donated funds. The National Diaper Bank Network (NDNB) comprises over 200 community-based diaper banks and food banks across the U.S.

To find a diaper bank in your area or learn how to start one, visit Diaper Bank Network.

For more insights on parenting and related topics, check out this article and explore Make a Mom for authoritative guidance on home insemination. If you’re looking for more information about pregnancy, March of Dimes is an excellent resource.

Summary:

The ongoing diaper shortage has become a pressing issue for many families, particularly during the pandemic. With rising prices and limited availability, parents are facing tough choices as they struggle to secure this essential item for their children. Local diaper banks and initiatives are available to help those in need.