How Much Does Baby Formula Cost?

Although most experts still say that breastfeeding is best, they also say that formula is a perfectly acceptable substitute.  Many moms are unable to breastfeed for many different reasons, so formula may be the only option.  When planning to have a baby, the cost of feeding the child should be taken into consideration.

How much is it?

• Store brand formula (which most doctors say is just as good as the name brand) usually costs about $12 for the larger can – usually around 25 ounces in weight.  This will last about a week, depending on how many ounces your baby drinks per day.  The average baby will need about 4 cans per months, which equals about $50.
• Name brand formula, such as Enfamil or Similac, is usually about $23 for the larger can.  This will last about the same amount of time as the store brand, resulting in a monthly cost of about $100.

What is going to be included?

• All formula brands include a pre-measured scoop along with specific instructions on how to mix the formula according to how many ounces the baby will drink.

What are the extra costs?

• If your child has digestive problems, is lactose intolerant, or needs soy-based formula for any reason, the  monthly cost for formula will increase to about $65 a month for store brand or $125 a month for name brands.
• Depending on where you live, you may need to buy distilled water to mix in the formula.  A gallon of distilled water is usually around $1.

Factors that influence the price:

• The amount of baby formula:  The ounces listed on the container will greatly influence the price.  Common container sizes will include, 12, 25, and 33 ounces.
• The brand:  Store brands are commonly going to be cheaper than the name brands.  Since baby formula has to be both FDA and ADA approved, you can be assured that the formula will be very safe for your baby.  Local grocery stores and wholesale clubs such as Costco commonly carry their own brand that can cost 20% less.
• The type:  Organic brands are going to cost more than the generic brands.  Organic brands will only use organic ingredients with their powder blends.

Tips to know:

• Powdered form is always going to be the cheapest.  If you’re on a budget, consider this type over the liquid.  When mixing powder based baby formula, always make sure that you use sterilized water.
• Ready-to-feed formula will come mixed with everything include the water.  This type of formula is the most expensive, but can be used straight from the bottle, making the preparation process very easy.
• Before formula is poured into a bottle, always make sure that the bottle has been washed out with hot water and soap.  Always do this even if the bottle is brand new.

How can I save money?

• Once formula is mixed it is only usable for up to an hour.  Therefore, if you are careful about how much you make you will have less waste, resulting in saving money.
• All brands of formula are on sale from time to time, and coupons are also available for many different brands.  Some companies even have rewards programs, such as Enfamil Family Beginnings.
• Check with local grocery stores and wholesale clubs to see inquire about their store brands.  These no-name store brands will be FDA approved, but at a lower price compared to the name brands.

How can I compare prices?

• Unfortunately comparing prices also means comparing different formulas.  This can cause a lot of waste if your baby does not like the formula you chose to buy.  Most companies will send free samples by request. This allows you to be sure your baby will drink and digest the formula properly before you purchase a whole can of it.  However, it is not good for the baby to switch formulas very often, so try to find something that works and stick with it!

Average Price for Users : $0