How many diapers to buy before the baby is born?

Each baby reacts differently to each brand. There are families in which the most premium line works in any size, and there are families in which it irritates the skin. There are babies who leak with one brand and stay dry with another. As there is no test before birth, a large supply purchased blindly has a good chance of becoming a donation.

Start small and test: use the premium NB version, check whether it absorbs well, leaks or irritates the skin, and only then move to less expensive options. If redness appears around the elastic, waist or groin, stop using that brand and try another.

One or two premium NB packages cover the first few days. Some maternity hospitals provide diapers during the stay, which reduces the initial expense. Add a few S diapers and stop there: once you know which brand works, future purchases will be more accurate.

The premium versions are worth the initial investment for very practical reasons: double elastic on the legs, which really stops leaks, softer fabric and the band that changes color when the diaper is full. If you've never changed a diaper in your life, don't worry: this strip will be your best friend in the first few weeks.

On the invitation, indicate brand and size. Those who don't have children have no idea what to buy (I didn't either), and the recommendation avoids poor quality diapers sitting in the closet. Think in terms of number of diapers, not packages: packages vary from 34 to more than 170 units, so it is the final count that tells you if something is missing.

Order minimum quantities to avoid creating waste and, if the guest list is large, add sizes L and XL. They will be used freely up front, while too much M can wear off too quickly. When the gifts arrive, check the expiration dates and organize the packages by size and expiration date.

Always compare the price per diaper, not per package. The practical reference is to keep the purchase close to R$1 per unit: a pack of 60 diapers for around R$62 is in; a 48 for R$84, no. This simple rule prevents large packaging from disguising a high price.

It is worth remembering that different brands have different models, and some fit a little smaller in the same nominal size. If you have packs of different brands, use the smaller size ones first so you don't lose diapers due to growth.