A recent survey of 1,000 UK parents who welcomed a baby in the past decade sheds light on the unexpected costs and resources required in the first year of parenthood.
While 75% of parents felt prepared for their baby’s arrival, the survey reveals that 71% were shocked by the extensive needs of their newborn during the early months. The study highlights that parents use an average of 5,238 baby wipes and 3,365 nappies in their baby’s first year. Despite the constant demand, parents only manage about four hours of sleep each night.
Monthly expenses include £178 on nappies, £205 on baby clothes, and £56 on baby wipes. Additionally, parents spend £60 per month on toys and books to aid their child’s development. On the bright side, they also receive an average of 13 gifts from family, friends, or colleagues.
Seven out of ten parents said the first few months with a newborn were a blur. However, they managed to capture the moments, taking over 6,600 photos—an average of more than 18 photos per day.
A spokesperson for Asda, which commissioned the survey to promote its Baby Event, said: “It’s amazing how much you go through in just one year. From baby wipes and nappies to breast pads and dummies, new parents have a lot to consider.”
Three-quarters of parents felt they were ready for their baby’s arrival and confident they had everything they needed. The most essential items were nappies, baby wipes, and dummies. However, 13% of parents said they couldn’t have managed without less obvious items like car seat cleaner, concealer, or hairspray.
Asda’s spokesperson added, “We know the list of baby essentials can feel overwhelming and expensive, so through our Baby Event, we aim to ensure parents have access to everything they need at affordable prices.”
Related topics:
