When it comes to parenting — both newly minted and veteran parents alike — the struggle to decide what’s best for baby is real. With an abundance of resources and studies designed to help parents navigate the murky waters of breastfeeding versus formula feeding, co-sleeping versus sleep training, cloth diapering versus disposable diapers, it’s no wonder many moms and dads alike find themselves stymied by choice. How can you really know for sure that you’re making the most informed decisions for your growing family and baby when there’s twenty different kinds of organic disposable diapers and iron fortified toddler cereals staring you down in the baby aisle of your local grocery store?
One of the biggest expenses parents often overlook is the price and quality of diapers. Sure, you’re obsessed with that new baby smell and those squishy thigh rolls (who wouldn’t be?), but diapers are constant and a necessity. Infants generally go through 8-10 diapers a day — with that number eventually diminishing as they grow — and are in them for the first three to four years of their lives. Long story short: that’s a crapload of diapers (pun intended) and money! And maybe you’re one of those eco-friendly parents who chooses cloth diapering in order to save money and minimize waste. However, for the majority of working Americans who appreciate the ease of convenience, there simply isn’t time to clean soiled diapers daily, which is why so many people choose disposable diaper options.
What Type of Disposable Diaper is Best?
There’s no shortage of diaper options on the market today. What you choose reflects what’s important to you — fewer harsh chemicals, eco-friendly, softness, absorbency, cost, etc. But the most important facet and consideration to keep in mind is whether the diaper works for your baby. You might find your newborn’s skin reacts to one brand and not another. It’s also possible you may have to try a couple different brands to figure out what works best.
How to Choose the Right Diaper for Your Baby
While disposal diapers are a matter of personal preference, parents should keep a few basic things in mind when researching the best brands for their baby.
Price — Say this one again LOUDER for the people in the back! Diapers range in price with the pricier options containing organic materials free of harsh chemicals. While there are good quality diapers on the market that won’t burn a hole in your wallet, it’s a good idea to consider how much you realistically want to spend weekly on diapers.
Availability — Some people don’t mind routinely buying diapers online while others prefer the ease of their local grocery store or Target. Regardless of what option you choose, you want to make sure that you can easily replenish your diaper stock at a moments notice.
Material/Softness — You’ll never hear a parent say “Man, I wish these diapers had more added chemicals” and for good reason. So, before opting for just any old disposable diaper, look at the materials listed. Are there parabens or latex used? What about added fragrances or chlorine bleaching? All good things to take note of prior to checking out.
Leak Prevention/Absorbency — There is nothing worse than a diaper blowout. To prevent that from happening frequently, especially in those early weeks when baby is going through 8-10 diapers daily, it is important to consider the level of leak prevention and absorbent materials. Many diapers now have a wetness indicator strip on the front of the diaper that changes color when wet.
Top 3 Disposable Diapers of 2018
#1 Pampers Swaddler Diapers
Overview: Pampers are by far the most popular choice among buyers for their super-soft feel and flexible fit which means fewer diaper explosions. Their Swaddler line is the baby-approved and includes a wetness indicator as well a design that makes space for the umbilical cord. Also, you can earn gifts with every Pampers purchase by joining Pampers Rewards.
Other important information: Pampers also offers a new line called Pure that has 0% chlorine bleaching, fragrances, parabens, and latex to prevents rashes and redness.
Where to Purchase
Prices vary depending on the size and number of diapers that you need, but are available on Amazon (with fast and free shipping if you have Amazon Prime) or at many of your local stores.
# 2 Honest Diapers
Overview: Made with plant-derived materials and sustainably harvested pulp, these diapers are easier on the earth, skip traditional chlorine processing and perfumes, and are just as absorbent as other disposable diaper brands. Also, there are many oh-so adorable designs to keep you coming back for more!
Other important information: While you might be able to find Honest diapers in stores like Costco and Target, they aren’t as widely available as other brands. In addition, they are on the pricier side, but worth it.
Where to Purchase
Prices vary depending on the size and number of diapers that you need, but are available on Amazon (with fast and free shipping if you have Amazon Prime) or at many of your local stores.
#3 Huggies Snug and Dry Diapers
Overview: Another well-known and traditional brand, Huggies is know for their Little Snugglers. The elastic around the waist deserves kudos for preventing blowouts from traveling up your baby’s back. The Little Snugglers line is soft and absorbent, wicking wetness away from your baby’s skin to optimize dryness.
Other important information: Huggies are known for having a roomier fit, which could be a pro or a con depending on whether your baby is bigger or smaller. We’ll let you be the judge of that one!
Where to Purchase
Prices vary depending on the size and number of diapers that you need, but are available on Amazon (with fast and free shipping if you have Amazon Prime) or at many of your local stores.
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