How rising tariffs could impact family budgets—and 5 ways to stay ahead
For busy families already juggling skyrocketing childcare costs, grocery bills that seem to climb every week, and the cost of simply existing in America right now, new tariffs might feel like just another economic gut punch.
The Trump administration has recently announced new tariffs on imports from China, Canada, and Mexico, impacting everything from electric vehicles to key consumer goods. While tariffs are often framed as a way to strengthen domestic industries, the reality is that they often raise prices for consumers. If your household depends on everyday essentials like diapers, formula, car seats, or even food packaging materials—these new tariffs could add even more strain to your family budget.
So what does this mean for your bottom line?
Related: If your family’s going through unemployment, here’s how to save: Budgeting tips for families
How tariffs impact your family’s budget
When tariffs are imposed on imported goods, businesses typically pass those costs onto consumers. That means:
Higher prices on baby essentials: Diapers, formula, wipes, and even baby bottles are often imported or rely on global supply chains. Any price hikes on raw materials could mean parents paying significantly more per month for these must-have items.
More expensive kids’ gear: If you’re in the market for a stroller, crib, car seat, or baby monitor, expect to pay more. Many of these products come from overseas or contain components affected by tariffs.
Hidden costs on food and household supplies: Even if your grocery items are American-made, tariffs on packaging materials like aluminum and plastics could drive up costs on everything from baby food pouches to juice boxes.
Increased costs on school and activity supplies: Backpacks, lunchboxes, sports gear, and even musical instruments often come from China, meaning you could see steeper prices at the start of the school year.
But just because these policies are happening at a national level doesn’t mean families are powerless. Here’s what you can do to get ahead of rising costs and make your voice heard.
Related: Here’s how to practice ‘loud budgeting’ with your kids—from a family finance expert
5 ways to stay ahead of rising tariffs
Stock Up Before Prices Rise If you’ve been thinking about a big purchase—a new laptop, stroller, or even a bulk diaper order—it might be wise to buy now before tariffs take full effect. Consider stocking up on formula or non-perishable baby food before prices rise. Look for sales and price-match policies to get the best deal.
Audit Your Family Budget Rising costs mean now is the time to reassess where your money is going. Look at subscriptions, grocery spending, and discretionary expenses. Can you switch to generic brands for formula or baby wipes? Buy in bulk from a warehouse club? Find local diaper banks or swap groups for baby gear? Small tweaks add up.
Get Creative With Savings Strategies
Cloth diapering resurgence: With disposable diaper prices rising, consider switching to cloth diapers, which can save thousands over the diapering years.
Formula options: If tariffs increase formula prices, talk to your pediatrician about your options including generic brands that might be more affordable. In an emergency, pediatricians often have access to sample supplies that may be available for free if you ask.
Trade and swap baby gear: Join local parent groups to swap gently used strollers, high chairs, and baby clothes instead of buying new.
Related: More parents are using their retirement savings to help their adult kids because of the economy
Leverage Credit Card Rewards and Cashback Programs With costs going up, every dollar saved counts. Use credit cards strategically to earn cash back on groceries, baby supplies, and household essentials. Just make sure to pay off balances to avoid high-interest debt.
Take Action: Contact Your Representatives Here’s the truth: policy decisions impact our daily lives, and it’s up to us to speak up. If you’re concerned about how tariffs will drive up costs for families, reach out to your representatives.
Call or email your congressional representatives and share how these policies will affect your family budget.
Ask for policies that directly help families, like tax relief, expanded childcare credits, and measures to offset inflation.
Join or support advocacy groups that fight for economic policies benefiting working families.
Not sure who represents you? Find out at www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative and www.senate.gov/senators.
Rising tariffs aren’t just a political talking point—they hit families where it hurts: at the checkout line. While we can make smarter financial moves to cushion the blow, real change happens when we demand economic policies that actually support working parents. Let’s make sure our voices are heard.
Related: ‘We’re working for daycare’: How American individualism and economic forces are breaking families
