Formula vs. Breast Feeding Costs

Every mother has to decide whether to breastfeed or formula feed her baby. When mothers return to work feel that because the initial cost of an electric breast pump seems expensive than formula feeding. Comparing the prices for feeding an infant for Eight months would help you determine which method will be the most cost effective for you.

Breastfeeding the milk cost is absolutely free. These breastfeeding costs, however, are based on what you actually spent on breastfeeding accessories. Here are estimated forumla vs breastfeeding costs for an infant over 8 months.

Breastfeeding Cost

Quantity Item Ave Price Total
1 Electric Breastpump $199.00 $199.00
1 Breast Feeding Pillow $19.99 $19.99
5 Nursing Bras $29.20 $146.00
5 Nursing Tops $24.00 $120.00
1 Milk Storage System $10.00 $10.00
2 Bottles $4.99 $9.98
1 Disposable Bottle Liners (100) $3.99 $3.99
Total: $508.93

Formula Cost

Quantity Item Price Total
23 Baby Formula (2 Lbs) $22.99 $506.00
6 Bottles $4.99 $29.94
14 Bottle Liners (100) $3.99 $55.86
Total: $591.80

These costs are estimates. You may have different needs or opt to purchase more or less items. However, Breastfeeding is generally cheaper than or on par with the cost of formula. On top of this, studies have shown that breastfed babies have fewer incidences of ear infections and diarrhea. That is a good bonus!