Tariffs already increasing cost of baby products
American families are already shelling out well over $20,000 during the first year of their child’s life.
Now, President Trump’s tariffs are poised to send that number even higher.
BabyCenter has been tracking the cost of diapers, formula, car seats and strollers since tariffs took effect.
Executive Editor Melissa Bykofsky says they’ve already noted a 10% increase in car seat and stroller prices.
She said costs could soon rise on many other baby products.
“So even if the final result is made in the USA, if any part of production – be it part of the material on a formula can – is imported, it could see a price increase, even if the final product is made in the USA,” explained Bykofsky. “So we’ve seen prices on car seats and strollers increase, and some of them are going in and out of stock.”
Bykofsky said some baby gear manufacturers like UPPAbaby have announced they’ll have to increase costs by 20-30% next month if tariffs remain in effect.
When it comes to diapers and formula, she said prices are still holding steady, but that could change depending on where companies source their supplies.
So should you start stocking up on certain baby products before they get even pricier?
When it comes to essentials like diapers and formula, Bykofsky said don’t go overboard.
“For formula and diapers, we really want to discourage families from stocking up,” said Bykofsky. ‘It’s really good to a have a back stock of maybe diapers the size you’re in and the next size, formula – maybe have like two cans in the cabinet just in case you need a little more.”
She continued, “But other than that you’re risking taking away from families who also need and didn’t have a chance – an ability to stock up themselves.”
But for more expensive gear like strollers and cribs, she said it might be time to buy.
“Where purchasing now could be helpful is those bigger ticket items,” said Bykofsky.
The Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association has been urging the Trump administration to create exemptions for baby essentials like formula and diapers.
Dozens of lawmakers are advocating for this, as well.
However, there are currently no exemptions on any baby products.
