As parents will quickly discover when they have a new baby, there are so many different choices when it comes to baby diapers. While it is wonderful to have so many options, it can be slightly overwhelming, even for veteran parents.
Every baby is unique, and the "best" baby diaper brand can be different for every family. Some of the main factors to consider when choosing diapers are materials, price, fit, special characteristics, and quality. Here are five things for parents and caregivers to consider when choosing diapers.
Types of baby diapers. There are basically two types of diapers: disposable and cloth diapers. Cloth diapers can be broken down into even smaller categories: prefolds and contours, which are similar to old fashioned cloth diapers and must be pinned and then covered with a waterproof pant; pockets, which have an outer waterproof shell and removable absorbent inserts; or all-in-ones, which are similar to disposable diapers but can be reused. Cloth diapers have a high upfront cost but then parents only have to pay for washing and possibly replacing diapers for bigger sizes. Disposable diapers are only used once and then thrown away.
Avoiding diaper rash. The best way to avoid diaper rash is to change your baby frequently, especially if the diaper is very full or has stool in it. This ensures their waste does not sit on their skin any longer than necessary. Diaper rash creams, ointments, and powders can be used to prevent or treat diaper rash. Use diaper wipes or water to clean your baby during diaper changes and be aware of any irritation to your baby's skin. This might mean trying a new type of diaper. Parents should consult their medical provider if a diaper rash seems severe.
Popular diaper brands. The three biggest names in disposable diapers are Huggies, Pampers, and Luvs. There are several eco-friendly brands of diapers such as Seventh Generation, The Honest Company, Earth's Best, and Babyganics. Eco-friendly diapers claim to be better for the environment and often contain natural ingredients such as essential oils, organic cotton, and sustainable wood pulp. Eco-friendly diapers can be more expensive but some parents choose them because they are biodegradable and can sometimes be better for babies with sensitive skin. Mainstream diapers can contain ingredients that parents wish to avoid such as chlorine, petroleum, latex, and fragrances. No matter which disposable brand you choose, diapers come in sizes from Preemie to size 6 and are based on weight. There are also overnight diapers, designed to keep your child dry even overnight, and swim diapers.
Cheap diapers & diaper coupons. Most big retailers have their own store brand of diapers that are almost always less expensive than name brands. Target has Up and Up, Walmart makes Parent's Choice, Sam's Club carries Member's Mark, and Costco has Kirkland Signature Brand. If sticking to a budget is a concern, parents can try one of these store brands and hope it works for their particular child. Many retailers have generous return policies and you can return an opened box of diapers if you find that they do not work for your child.
Baby diaper subscriptions. Parents have lots of options when it comes to diaper subscription services, which can be super convenient for busy parents without a lot of extra time for diaper shopping. For Amazon Prime shoppers, you can add your preferred diaper brand to a "subscribe and save" service through their Amazon Family feature. The diapers are offered at a discount and will arrive on a set schedule, which means you can just set your preferences and then enjoy diapers delivered to your door. The Honest Company is a very popular subscription service known for their stylish diaper designs. Subscribers receive monthly deliveries of diapers and wipes and can cancel their subscription at any time.