Short answer: it depends—on your leak level, laundry habits, and daily rhythm. Use the scenarios below to build a kit that fits you (and only you).
Stage 1: First 2–3 weeks (milk coming in)
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Expect heavier, unpredictable leaks.
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Recommended:
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Washable: 6–8 daytime pairs + 2 night pads
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Disposable: 20–30 pads as a flexible buffer
Build it with: Day & Night 4‑pack + one 4‑count set + 60‑count disposables.
Stage 2: Weeks 4–12 (finding your rhythm)
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Leaks often ease up, but not always.
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Recommended: 4–6 daytime pairs + 2 night pads; keep a small stash of disposables for outings.
Stage 3: Beyond 3 months
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Many people leak less; others keep leaking (hi let‑down!).
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Recommended: 3–4 daytime pairs + 1–2 night pads; a 60‑count box of disposables can last months as travel backup.
Lifestyle factors
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Daily washer? You can get by with fewer.
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Every 2–3 days? Add 2–4 extra pairs.
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Heavy exercise? Swap pads before/after workouts to stay comfortable.
A simple formula
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Estimate changes/day (e.g., 3).
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Multiply by days between washes (e.g., 2).
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Add 2 night pads + 2 spare pairs.
Example: 3 × 2 = 6 daytime pads → Add 2 spares + 2 nights = 10 total washable pads (5 pairs + 2 night). Keep 10–15 disposables on hand.
Don’t forget mess‑managers
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Cotton burp cloths catch sudden let‑downs, burps, and pump drips better than your favorite tee.
Bottom line: Build a small core set, then adjust. Most parents settle around 4–6 daytime pairs + 1–2 night pads, with a box of disposables for travel and heavy weeks.