A childless woman’s recent discovery of diaper prices has ignited a significant conversation regarding the high cost of raising children. TikTok creator and comedian Al Duffy, known as @wowaliceduffy, shared her experience online after purchasing a six-pack of diapers for an astonishing $11 at a local pharmacy. Duffy intended to donate the diapers to a food bank amid the ongoing government shutdown, which has led to concerns about delayed or missed EBT payouts.
Duffy expressed her disbelief at the price, particularly noting that a newborn can use up to 15 diapers a day. In a TikTok clip posted on October 22, 2025, she questioned, “How is it legal for these companies to charge so much for something that a newborn baby needs?” This statement resonated with many viewers and sparked a broader discussion about the economic challenges parents face today.
Rising Costs and Parental Challenges
Comments on Duffy’s video revealed that many parents rely on major retailers such as Walmart, Amazon, and Target to alleviate some of the financial burden. Others mentioned buying in bulk at places like Costco and Sam’s Club to reduce the overall cost. Many participants in the conversation noted that prices at convenience stores, including pharmacies, tend to be significantly higher, which adds to the financial strain.
One commenter highlighted that while many parents do not buy small packs of diapers, opting instead for larger boxes, the expense remains substantial. “That box is still expensive, but it doesn’t end up being $30 a day,” they remarked, indicating that the rising costs of childcare essentials are influencing family planning decisions for many couples. Duffy’s candid admission that knowing the cost of diapers might deter her from having children resonated with a broader audience, emphasizing a shared concern.
Economic Implications of Parenting in 2025
The financial realities of parenting have sparked discussions about declining birth rates. Duffy’s video reflects a wider sentiment among individuals contemplating parenthood in today’s economic climate. As one user pointed out, “This is just one of the many reasons the birth rate is down. People can’t afford kids.”
The conversation on social media also touched on the high prices of infant formula, with some claiming it can exceed $100 a week, compounding the financial challenges faced by new parents. Numerous commenters noted that promotions at retailers have become essential for many families to manage costs effectively. “It shouldn’t be that way, but it is right now and people have to survive,” one user commented, illustrating the desperate measures many families must take to provide for their children.
Duffy’s video serves as a poignant reminder of the economic pressures surrounding parenting today. As families navigate rising costs, the discourse surrounding accessibility to essential items like diapers continues to evoke strong reactions. As Duffy aptly stated, “No matter what economic background you come from, if your pooping machine costs $30 a day in diapers alone, oh my god.” This statement encapsulates the growing frustration over the financial demands of modern parenting, highlighting a critical issue that many are now more aware of than ever before.
