Of the baby formulas, Mead Johnson (Enfamil) is the most popular, followed by Ross (Similac), Nestle (Carnation) and store brands (Wal-Mart, Target, grocery story).
Typical costs:
Powders are least expensive. Powdered formula from the grocery store can cost about $50 a month, brand name powder can cost $100-$150 a month (for about 130oz of powder per month).
Ready to feed cans are the most expensive, at $5-$10 per 32 ounce can, often sold in cases of 6-8 cans. A month's supply of ready to feed formula can run from $100 to around $300 a month.
According to the Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion (an agency of the USDA), the average annual expenditures on infants 0-2 years olds for food ranges from $83 a month by families that make an average of $27,000 to $130 a month for families making an average of $109,000.
If you choose to breast-feed, you may save substantially on formula, although many people purchase additional clothing for breast-feeding and breast pumps.
Material on this page is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. For medical decisions, always consult your physician for the right course for your infant or child.
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I use my "wellness card" (in store sales card) and the manufacturer coupon that is taped to the front of each can (1.00 off at register). The regular price of Similac Advanced is about 13.99 for the regular can (not the huge one). I pay 10.19 for a can (I get 20 percent off with my wellness card and the 1.00 coupon). I feel so good when I leave the store.. try it. (You have to spend over 1,000 dollars at Rite Aid to reach the 20% off level.. which is valid for a year from the date of reaching the level. I have to say, it's the best savings card in my area). We use between 2 and 3 cans per week of the Similac... the older our baby gets, the less formula he needs, obviously and he's been averaging about 2.5 cans per week now. But you get the idea. Based on the cost per can and what you use, you should be able to figure out what you're going to spend at Rite Aid with the method described here. Good luck!
I tried breastfeeding but I didnt produce enough milk, and later found out my kids are both lactose and soy intolerant. They also both had colic. Unfortunately I have no other option other than the nutramigen, which is made by enfamil thats 33 dollars for a can of the powder in which my son goes through at least 6 a month. When ever I got a breast pump to start with I just got one of those evenflo ones, which was suggested to me by my doctor and the pediatrician. They are much cheaper, just as efficient and the bottles are alot cheaper too and last just as long.
Posted by: lacatation specialist in southeast, PA.
Posted: April 5th, 2010 03:04PM
A breast pump should never be purchased used. Hospitals do rent out breast pumps, but the models are designed for this purpose (don't allow backup into the unit) and are thoroughly cleaned after each person. One you purchase used does not have the same benefits and could potentially have had breast milk back up into the unit exposing your child to bacteria and disease. The cost of purchasing/renting a good quality pump is less expensive, though, overall than buying formula. So spend the money on that good pump (like a Medela pump in style) and reap the rewards not only free food for your baby, but also the best thing you can give her.
I bought my madela pump in style double breast pump (the same one they were selling @ babies-r-us at the time) for $70 at a consignment sale. I then purchased new tubing and accessories which cost an additional $34..total cost-$94! Yes, I've heard people say that it's gross to use a used breat pump, but if the hospitals rent out used ones what could be so bad about it?? As long as you get new accessories you're fine. Save your money like I did!
The most expensive item was the double Medela breast pump, which we got on sale at Babies R Us for $260. In addition to that, we've spent about $100 on bottles, nipples, storage bags and other equipment. If you get Dr. Brown's bottles, be sure to get the ones that are glass or polypropelene (BPA free).
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