Products may have different characteristics even from the same manufacturer.
Diapers should not only retain moisture, but also protect the baby’s skin from irritation. By type they are divided into disposable and reusable; there are also diapers for swimming and sleeping, but we did not consider them.
The cost of diapers depends on functional parameters, design and even packaging volume.
Team criteria
I compared brands, studied reviews on marketplaces and chose 19 options. That’s what I took into account.
Type. Disposable diapers do not need to be washed, but for the first time after birth it is recommended to change them 10-12 times a day, then up to 6-8 times . Therefore, a package of 50 pieces will last for 5-7 days . Reusable ones look like bulky panties: after use, they can be washed, dried and worn again.
Both types consist of three layers. The inner one adheres to the baby’s skin and allows moisture to pass through. The outer layer is waterproof, it avoids puddles underfoot, and sometimes even keeps clothes dry. The absorbent layer retains liquid: in disposable diapers it is a mixture of cellulose and absorbent; in reusable diapers, a special liner performs the function.
View. For younger children, diapers with reusable Velcro are designed, with the help of which the product is fixed to the baby’s waist. But when the baby starts to squirm, it becomes more difficult to secure them, and the diaper may leak. Therefore, by the age of six months, panty diapers are usually worn, which are held at the waist by an elastic band. At the same age, you can start using reusable diapers.
Child’s weight. The sizing chart may vary among different manufacturers, and therefore you need to focus on the child’s weight. Most disposable diapers are intended for children from birth up to 25 kg, reusable ones – from 8 to 15 kg.
Gender of the child. There are unisex diapers that are suitable for children of any gender, but some manufacturers produce products specifically for boys or girls. The main difference that catches your eye is the design. Unisex diapers either have no pattern at all, or it is neutral. Diapers for boys often feature cars, while diapers for girls often feature fairy-tale princesses and flowers.
Manufacturers claim that the key difference is the location of the absorbent layer: closer to the buttocks for girls, closer to the stomach for boys. In unisex diapers it is distributed evenly over the surface. Manufacturers do not explain whether this affects the baby’s health, but, as a rule, unisex diapers with a minimal design are cheaper.
Breathability. If a child’s skin is in contact with moisture for a long time, a greenhouse effect occurs and diaper rash may appear on the body. In breathable diapers, excess moisture is removed due to micropores in the outer layer, and air circulates. However, if the skin is too sensitive and the diaper is rarely changed, diaper rash may still occur.
Filling indicator. This is the name for special stripes that change color as the diaper is filled. They are located on the outside of some manufacturers’ premium lines. They are not available in budget options. You can also determine the fullness of the diaper visually or by touch.
Velcro for recycling. It’s easier to carefully roll up and throw away a used diaper if it has adhesive tape on it. It is usually located at the back, but some manufacturers make it at the front. By unrolling this Velcro, you can quickly twist a child’s personal hygiene item and secure the edge.
How to choose diapers
- Select the type – disposable or reusable. The latter can be washed and reused.
- Choose the type – diapers or panties. For newborns, disposable Velcro diapers are best, but as the baby becomes more active, it is more convenient to wear disposable or reusable panties.
- Focus on the child’s weight. Any diaper must fit snugly to the body, otherwise leaks are possible.
- Decide if you need additional options. Some products have a full indicator and a recycling tape, but you can do without them.
- Decide on a design. The simpler it is, the lower the price can be.
Joyo Roy reusable panty diapers are designed for children weighing from 8 to 26 kg, with small sizes being harder to find. This is a budget option for those who want to potty train their child.
These diapers need to be changed frequently: they get wet on both sides and will not withstand more than one bowel movement from the baby. The diapers are made of cotton. The cut does not restrict movement, and the elastic bands on the legs stretch.