When Should I Buy Nappies? A Parent Guide

The last few weeks before a baby arrives can make every shopping decision feel urgent. If you are asking, “when should I buy nappies?”, the practical answer is to start before the birth, but avoid filling every cupboard with newborn packs. Babies grow quickly, and the right balance is having enough for a calm start without being left with unused sizes.

For most families, buying a small supply during the third trimester and topping up once baby arrives is the easiest approach. It gives you one less essential to think about during those first busy days at home, while leaving room to adjust to your baby’s size, skin and feeding routine.

When should I buy nappies before baby arrives?

Aim to buy your first nappies around weeks 30 to 34 of pregnancy. By then, you can prepare your hospital bag and set up a simple changing area without buying too far in advance. It is also a useful time to add wipes, nappy cream, changing mats and disposal bags to your regular household shop.

Do not wait until labour starts or until you return home with a newborn. New parents can use more nappies than expected, especially during the first week, and an early supply means you can focus on feeding, settling and resting rather than making an urgent supermarket trip.

At the same time, resist the temptation to buy a large number of newborn-size nappies. Some babies are born ready for size 1, while others move through it within a few weeks. A baby’s birth weight, body shape and how each nappy brand fits can all affect the size you need.

A sensible first nappy supply

A good starting point is two small packs of newborn or size 0 nappies, if available, plus one pack of size 1. This usually provides enough cover for the early days while keeping your options open. If your scan suggests a larger baby, or if there is a family history of larger births, you may prefer to buy mainly size 1 rather than stocking up on newborn sizes.

Newborns commonly need eight to 12 nappy changes a day. That figure can seem high, but frequent changes help keep delicate skin clean and dry. You may use fewer after the first few weeks, although every baby has a different pattern.

Buy for the first week, not the first three months

The most useful rule is simple: buy enough nappies for roughly seven to 10 days, then reassess. This prevents waste and helps you learn what works for your baby.

A nappy that looks right on the packet may not be the best choice once your baby is wearing it. You may find that one style fits better around the legs, another is more comfortable overnight, or a particular material suits your baby’s skin more easily. Leaks, red marks around the waist or thighs, and frequent blowouts can all be signs that it is time to check the fit or move up a size.

Buying smaller packs at first can cost slightly more per nappy than a bulk pack, but it offers flexibility. That trade-off is often worthwhile in the newborn stage. Once you know the size and brand that suit your baby, larger packs can make regular shopping simpler and offer better value.

How to know when to buy the next size

Do not choose a size based on age alone. Weight guidance on the pack is helpful, but fit matters more. A nappy should sit securely below the belly button, with fastening tabs that close comfortably and leg cuffs pulled out properly.

It may be time to buy the next size when the tabs are difficult to fasten, the nappy leaves deep marks, leaks become more frequent, or your baby is near the top of the stated weight range. Moving up a size often improves absorbency too, which can be especially useful for longer sleeps and overnight changes.

Keep one unopened pack of the current size until you are confident the new size works. If you have a few nappies left in the smaller size, use them during the day and reserve the more absorbent or larger ones for naps and night-time. There is no need to move sizes on a single day if both still fit well.

Do not stockpile every size

Sales and multipack offers can be useful, but nappies are not always a good item to buy months ahead. Storage space is one consideration, particularly in a warm or humid home where you want household essentials kept dry and clean. More importantly, babies do not follow a fixed growth chart.

A steady approach works best: keep enough for one to two weeks, then add nappies to your normal grocery order. This spreads the cost, reduces clutter and means you can respond quickly when your baby changes size.

Plan nappies around your routine

The best time to buy nappies also depends on how you shop. If you prefer a weekly household order, add a pack before your current supply gets low rather than waiting until the last few nappies. A simple reminder on your phone can help, particularly when sleep is limited and days begin to blend together.

For families using online supermarket shopping, building a regular essentials basket saves time. Nappies, wipes, baby wash, laundry detergent and tissues are easy items to replenish together. RB Patel makes it easier to include everyday baby essentials alongside the rest of the household shopping, whether you need groceries for the week or a quick top-up.

Keep an emergency pack in a useful place, such as the car, your changing bag or with a grandparent who provides regular childcare. You do not need a large reserve in every location. A handful of nappies, wipes and a spare change of clothes will usually cover an unexpected delay or outing.

Disposable, reusable or a mixture?

The timing of your nappy purchases will differ if you plan to use reusable nappies. Reusables need to be bought and washed before baby arrives, so having your first set ready by around 34 weeks can be practical. However, many parents still keep a small pack of disposable nappies for hospital stays, travel, overnight use or days when washing is difficult.

A mixed approach can be a realistic option. Disposable nappies offer convenience during the early newborn period, while reusable nappies may suit families once they have settled into a washing routine. There is no single right choice. The best system is one you can maintain without adding pressure to an already full day.

What else should you buy with nappies?

Nappies are only one part of a workable changing routine. Before baby arrives, it is sensible to have fragrance-free wipes or cotton pads, a gentle barrier cream, a changing mat, nappy disposal bags and several soft cloths. You will also want spare baby clothes nearby, because leaks and spills are normal.

Avoid buying too many specialised creams or scented products before you know what your baby needs. A simple, gentle setup is usually enough at the start. If your baby develops a persistent rash or seems uncomfortable, seek advice from a healthcare professional rather than changing several products at once.

Common questions about buying nappies

Should I take nappies to hospital?

Check what your maternity unit provides, as this varies. Many parents pack a small supply for the journey and first day, plus wipes or cotton wool and a change of clothes. It is better to have a little more than you expect to need than to rely on someone finding the right size at short notice.

How many nappies should I keep at home?

For a newborn, a week to 10 days of nappies is a practical reserve. As your baby gets older and you understand their routine, you may be comfortable keeping one unopened pack plus the pack in use. The aim is not a huge stockpile. It is a reliable supply that suits your shopping schedule.

Is it worth buying nappies on promotion?

Yes, once you know the size and style that fit your baby well. Promotions can reduce the cost of a regular essential, particularly for sizes your baby is likely to wear for longer. Buy only an amount you can store properly and expect to use within the next few weeks.

Start with a modest supply, watch how your baby grows and make nappies part of your regular household shop. That small bit of planning keeps a daily essential close at hand and gives you one less thing to worry about when your attention belongs with your new baby.