Whether you're thinking about price, convenience or your impact on the environment, there is a diaper out there for your baby. Here's what you need to know when buying diapers.
Which type to pick: Disposable or cloth?
Disposable diapers are less messy and more convenient, making them the go-to choice for busy parents. They’re available in different sizes so your baby is covered from the newborn stage until toilet training is complete.
Cloth diapers, on the other hand, are an inexpensive and eco-friendly alternative to disposable diapers. They can be used with a flushable liner for easier clean up. Buy enough to last about three days so you’re not a slave to the washing machine.
Diaper features
Most disposable diapers offer these features to make your life a little bit easier while keeping your baby clean and comfortable. Cloth diaper accessories are available to achieve the same ends.
- Diaper inserts: Diaper inserts are absorbent pads built into the diaper. Cloth pads can be added to cloth diapers to improve absorbency.
- Waterproof diaper cover: Keeps moisture, germs and other messes locked in until the diaper is changed. You will need waterproof pants to cover cloth diapers.
- Pins, velcro or elastic: These tools are used to keep the diaper tightly in place to avoid leakage and keep babies comfortable.
Factors to consider when buying diapers
Size: It can be tempting to buy reusable diapers in bulk once you find the right size, but newborns will quickly outgrow their initial size. Keep this in mind so you don’t overbuy.
Diaper style: Diapers come in a range of styles, including pre-folded, flat and contoured diapers. Pre-folded and flat diapers are folded into place while contoured diapers are hourglass shaped to fit your baby securely using pins, Velcro or other mechanisms.
Environmentally friendly options: If you’re concerned about your impact on the environment, consider cloth diapers to cut down on waste. There are eco-friendly disposable diapers that are biodegradable.
Diaper service: A diaper service for your cloth diapers may be less expensive and better for the environment than disposable diapers. You can have your diapers picked up, washed and delivered for time-saving convenience.
Tips for buying diapers
- Don't overbuy a brand you haven't already tested. You might find out too late that it's not the right fit for your baby.
- Once you do find your brand and size, buy disposable diapers in bulk to save you a considerable amount of money.
- Diaper sizes vary between brands. Keep that in mind when switching brands so you don't get stuck with diapers in the wrong size.
While the options can be overwhelming, it’s easy to find the right diapers once you know what you’re looking for. A diaper that combines comfort with convenience will make both you and baby happy.
