The prices of essential baby items in the United States have seen a sharp rise in recent weeks, following tariff policies introduced by Donald Trump. A recent report by the minority arm of the Joint Economic Committee revealed that five key baby items — car seats, bassinets, strollers, high chairs, and baby monitors — have increased in price by an average of 24% between 1 April and 9 June 2025.
This translates to an additional $98 on average per item. The figures were obtained from the baby registry platform Babylist.
Read also: US shifts strategy to boost trade and investment in Nigeria
High dependence on Chinese imports
The rise in prices follows the 2 April announcement of new tariffs affecting a wide range of consumer goods. Baby products were among those targeted. According to the report, 97% of strollers and 87% of car seats sold in the U.S. are made in China, making them particularly affected.
“New parents already have their budgets stretched thin by all the products they need to buy — the last thing they need is what’s essentially a new tax on babies,” said U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan, a leading Democrat on the committee.
Read also: FG endorses $25bn Nigeria–Morocco gas pipeline, plans revival of abandoned projects
Graco car seat sees steepest increase
The study used price-tracking tools Keepa and Camelcamelcamel to monitor Amazon prices of popular baby items. Among the five categories, the Graco SnugRide Lite LX Infant Car Seat recorded the highest increase at 44.8%.
Graco’s parent company, Newell Brands, responded by stating the rise was linked to the end of promotional discounts. However, executives also confirmed a 20% price increase on baby gear to offset the tariff costs.
Read also: Lagos State records N582.45bn revenue in Q1, spends N522bn
Retailers and families bear the cost
Retailers are also reacting. Costco and Best Buy have already adjusted prices, while Walmart and Target are planning increases on selected items. A broader analysis by Babylist covering 11 product categories estimates that families are spending $400 more on average due to the tariffs.
The total extra cost to U.S. families is projected at $875 million, based on data from the American Community Survey. California parents are expected to bear the highest burden at $100.3 million, followed by Texas, Florida, and New York.
“These tariffs are creating real pressure on families and businesses alike — from higher costs to difficult choices for manufacturers,” said Senator Hassan. She warned that continued pressure without support could lead to job losses or business closures.
