How Tariffs Are Impacting Your Favourite Baby Gear Brands

As I sit here at 24 weeks pregnant, preparing for the arrival of my first child, I find myself in a whirlwind of excitement and a dash of anxiety. My mind races as I draft a baby gear registry that’s more than just a list—it’s a lifeline for those early months of motherhood. From a stroller and car seat to a bassinet and baby carrier, there’s so much to consider. But looming over my preparations are the tariffs implemented during President Trump’s administration. These tariffs have made me question whether the items on my registry will skyrocket in price, and if it might be wise to purchase some things sooner rather than later.

The Impact of Tariffs on Baby Gear Pricing

The tariffs are essentially extra costs slapped onto imported goods to encourage consumers to opt for locally-made products and, in theory, boost the U.S. economy. However, the reality isn’t that straightforward. With about 95% of strollers and three-quarters of toys and infant furniture coming from China, these tariffs have hit baby gear prices hard. According to *The Wall Street Journal*, U.S. manufacturers struggle to meet the stringent safety standards, further burdening parents with the rising costs of essential products.

Recently, there has been a bit of good news: the U.S. and China struck a temporary agreement to lower tariffs for the next 90 days. Yet many brands have opted to preemptively raise prices, leaving expecting parents like me feeling the pinch.

A Shift in Prices: Mockingbird’s Changes

Take my experience with Mockingbird, for example. Just recently, they informed customers about price hikes due to these ongoing tariffs. They produce a beloved single-to-double stroller and high chair that many moms rave about. In their statement, they acknowledged the hurdles families face and expressed their struggle to absorb these rising costs. The day before the price increase went into effect, I received a timely newsletter notification. I hurried to buy the stroller, which jumped from $450 to $599. Although it was an unexpected squeeze on our monthly budget, I felt a wave of relief in saving $150 by purchasing it in advance.

If you’re pregnant or shopping for a baby shower gift, knowing which brands are likely to raise their prices can really help you navigate these turbulent waters. Here’s a heads-up about some popular brands that have already made upward adjustments in their pricing.

Brands Already Feeling the Financial Squeeze

Online baby gear retailer Albee Baby shared a handy list of brands that have recently increased their prices:

– Chicco: As of March 10, 2025
– Doona: As of April 22, 2025
– Valco: As of April 30, 2025
– Britax: As of May 1, 2025
– BOB: As of May 1, 2025
– Silver Cross: As of May 1, 2025
– Clek: As of May 1, 2025
– Romer: As of May 1, 2025
– Cybex: As of May 1, 2025
– Larktale: As of May 1, 2025
– Veer: As of May 1, 2025
– WAYB: As of May 1, 2025
– UPPAbaby: As of May 5, 2025
– Bumbleride: As of May 5, 2025
– Baby Jogger: As of May 11, 2025
– Graco: As of May 11, 2025
– Mockingbird: As of May 12, 2025

Planning Ahead: What This Means for You

So, what does all this mean for us expecting parents? If you find yourself in a similar position to me—trying to juggle the joys of impending parenthood with the reality of rising costs—it’s worth keeping an eye on these brands and considering purchases earlier than you might have initially planned. Being proactive can make a significant difference in your overall budget.

While it can feel overwhelming at times, striking a balance between acquiring items you genuinely need and being mindful of your spending can simplify the preparation process. Remember, in this journey into motherhood, every bit of planning helps ease the transition and, hopefully, leaves a little more room in your budget for those sweet moments with your new baby.

As a parent or caregiver, you know how essential it is to choose the right products for your little one. The world of baby gear can feel overwhelming, and the choices we make often come with a hefty price tag. Unfortunately, upcoming price increases on popular baby brands can add to the stress of preparing for a new addition to the family. Albee Baby has recently announced that several beloved brands will be raising their prices in just a few weeks. If you’ve been eyeing any of the items listed below and your finances allow, now is a great time to make a purchase and potentially save a significant amount of money in the long run.

Image Source: Baby Gear Brands / Shutterstock