What are diapers made of?
The disposable diaper, nicknamed the "diaper" or "baby wipe", was invented to replace the cloth diaper, which is often associated with the inconvenience of washing and drying. The product has gained high popularity because it responds well to the needs of parents. The diapers have been developed and are constantly being improved by incorporating scientific and technical knowledge into the design and manufacturing process.
Currently, diapers consist of the following main components: fabrics, polyethylene, polyurethane and adhesives, with the main elements being an absorbent layer and a waterproofing layer. It includes an elastic seam feature to help improve the fit.
In addition, the diaper design has been further refined to meet the need for cleanliness and promote the developmental changes of children in each age range, such as adjustable tape baby diapers that are easy to put on and take off. There are also curved girdle designs to prevent moisture from rubbing against the umbilical cord for newborns. Some diapers are thin and lightweight, ideal for use during the day. Some are very absorbent, ideal for use throughout the night. Panty diapers are also available for babies who are starting to crawl and toddlers to promote development and learning through play and movement.
Consider the following diaper brands:
LIBERO
LOVULAR
Eco by Naty
P ampers premium care or P ampers active baby dry
Pure Protection
By go
Sun and moon
Huggies elite soft
Sterile diapers for newborns
When deciding what size diapers to choose for newborns, you need to take into account the baby’s weight and the fact that newborns’ immunity has not yet been formed. For the little ones they produce sterile LOVULAR diapers in the smallest size XS. These products are soft and undergo hot steam treatment. They best contribute to proper hygiene of the newborn and protection of the umbilical wound.
Sterile diapers for the little ones are an objective necessity due to touching the delicate baby skin.
After opening the package, the sterility of the diapers remains for another week, but the contents of the package will run out sooner.
How to choose diapers for a newborn by size
During the period when the baby cannot control his own secretions, diapers are an important everyday tool to wear all day every day. Choosing diapers for your baby's age and size is very important. In addition to good absorption and ventilation, choosing diapers that fit your baby's body well should not be overlooked. If you choose diapers that are too small, they will be too tight and make your baby feel uncomfortable. But if you choose one that is too large, the problem is leakage. Today we have some good tips on choosing a diaper size to suit your baby's weight and size.
You can also determine that the baby’s diaper has become too small if
- The diaper does not completely cover the butt
- You begin to notice red marks around your waist or hips and signs of chafing
- After the baby goes to the toilet, the diaper gets completely wet
Larger diapers are able to hold more urine and stool because they contain more absorbent material. But remember that moving up to the next size can also cause leakage. Make sure the diaper fits snugly around your waist and hips by running your fingers under the edge: your finger should fit easily, but there should be no gaps, otherwise the diapers may leak.
How to choose the size of diapers depending on the child’s weight in kg
Choosing the right diaper size for your baby is not difficult. Parents can determine the size according to the child's weight group as follows:
| Weight | Recommended size |
| Newborn – 4kg | Newborn Size |
| 4-8 kg | Size S (Small) |
| 7-12 kg | Size M (Medium) |
| 9-14 kg | Size L (Large) |
| 12-17 kg | Size XL (extra large) |
| 15-25 kg | Size XXL (Extra Extra Large) |
However, when choosing the right disposable diapers to fit the baby, parents should take into account the body size of each child, as diapers of the same size indicate overlap in the recommended weight, because parents can adjust the size of the diapers according to the shape and size of the child, as well as weight.
For parents who are in the process of choosing new diapers, we recommend purchasing a trial quantity and then seeing if the diaper fits. If this is the case, then parents can then decide to buy a larger quantity for long-term use or not.
Choosing a diaper for a baby
The main criterion when choosing a diaper is the baby's weight. Different brands may have different size designations, but the general guideline will always be the baby's weight.
Below is a summary table of sizes:
| General chart of diaper sizes | |
| Weight | Designation |
| 2-5 kg | Newborn (1) |
| 3-6 kg | S - Small/Mini (2) |
| 4-9 kg | SM - Small/Medium/Midi (3) |
| 7-18 kg | M - Medium/Maxi (4) |
| 9-20 kg | ML - Medium/Large/Maxi Plus (5) |
| 12-25 kg | L - Large/Junior (6) |
| 16+ kg | XL - Extra Large (7) |
As is clear from the table, the sizes overlap each other. This means that the baby’s weight can sometimes fit two sizes at once: for example, if a child weighs 5.5 kg, then both Small/Mini and Small/Medium size diapers will suit him. In this case, it is better to take a slightly larger suitable size.
When choosing a diaper, you should consider how well it absorbs moisture. If a child drinks a lot and, accordingly, urinates often, then a diaper that fits quickly may begin to leak due to rapid filling. In such cases, it is recommended to select a size slightly larger than the recommended one.
However, you shouldn’t go too far with the size - they should fit snugly to the baby’s legs and tummy. Otherwise, they will also begin to leak moisture.
Having selected a diaper, you need to observe the baby’s skin: if marks remain on it or marks from the elastic band are imprinted, it means that the selected size is too small and it’s time to move on to the next one. It is also necessary to change the size if the diaper fasteners are secured in the most extreme position.
When the baby begins to actively crawl, sit and walk, regular Velcro diapers can be replaced with panty diapers - they will not fall off and interfere with movement.
When choosing the size, it is worth taking into account one more feature of babies - with the same weight, they have different heights, volumes of the tummy and legs. This should also be taken into account when choosing the size.
How to know if the diaper size is correct?
As your baby begins to grow, of course the baby's weight and height increases. Thus, this is the time for parents to pay attention to size changes and consider upsizing in regards to diapers. We have tips on how to notice these changes.
Consider the best diapers for babies.
Consider the best eco diapers for babies' skin.
Consider the best diapers for sensitive skin of babies.
Consider the best overnight diapers for babies.
Consider the best panty diapers for babies.
When diapers are too small
Parents find it difficult to put it on or the child begins to show signs of tightness, such as redness, around the waist or leg, including symptoms of discomfort. With these signs, we recommend choosing a diaper size larger.
When diapers are too big
If parents cannot achieve an exact match with the tape. If the tape is too loose, there will be a gap between the waist and leg and the diaper, which may cause leakage. If the tape is tightened to the maximum capacity and this problem still persists, we recommend reducing the size.
Answers to frequently asked questions
What diaper should you buy for an unborn baby?
Mothers in Russia and abroad prepare a dowry for the baby until the moment of birth. This is convenient and useful - after the baby is born, there will be little time for trips to the store.
When making a purchase in advance, focus on the standards. 70–80% of infants from 0 to 1 month weigh 3–5 kg. Take a small package of size 1 and size 2 diapers. Buy three and four later.
When choosing a diaper for pregnant mothers, you can rely on ultrasound data. The last examination is carried out at 33–34 weeks, the approximate weight of the unborn baby will be known. Add to these data 100-150 grams for each week before birth, you will get the approximate weight of your baby at birth.
Start from this number. For example, on an ultrasound (33rd week) the baby’s body weight is 2400 grams, by the 40th week he will weigh about 3200. This means you need to buy diapers from 3 kg - these are sizes NB, or 1-2.
Should I use diapers a size larger?
The larger the size 4 or 3 diaper, the more moisture it absorbs. To save money, some parents prefer to buy a size 3 or 4 diaper for children who are underweight. It is not right. Using diapers larger than needed does not save money.
Firstly, their price is higher than 1–2. Secondly, the child is uncomfortable in such panties. Diapers 3-4 slide down, do not fit tightly, and folds of excess material that rub the skin may form.
Your baby won't be wearing diapers for long. After 1–1.5 years, you will only use disposable panties at night, so you shouldn’t skimp on them.
What diapers are suitable for premature babies
Babies born prematurely weigh less than full-term babies. When choosing diapers for this category of babies, this is the main difficulty. Regular size (number 1) is large for them. The companies Libero, Pampers, Huggies, Goo.N took care of them too. For newborns with low body weight from 2 kg, series with the digital marking 0 or the letter NB have been developed.
On a note! The Japanese company Goo.N produces disposable diapers with a fastener for babies from 1.8 kg (N), from 2.5 kg (NB). For premature babies this is the most convenient option.
Is it possible to use store-bought diaper sizes to make a gauze diaper?
A homemade gauze diaper is attached to the child’s body using a belt and ties.
Its side edges need to be sewn. The finished product is fixed with Velcro or held with a special elastic band. Therefore, to determine the size of the gauze version of the panties, you can use a diaper model from the store, but you should add 1-2 cm to the height, waist circumference and width of the middle part.
Adjustable diaper for the perfect fit
When parents choose diapers that match the baby's size, they should also tighten the tape according to the baby's body shape to prevent leakage. The elastic around the edge of the leg should be positioned so that it does not fold inward. The ribbon should be cinched at the waist. Parents should be able to insert 2 fingers into the belt to ensure the belt is not too tight. Some may have heard the urban legend that wearing diapers loosely is good for the baby due to the fear that babies will be uncomfortable, but the truth is that they need to be adjusted to the baby's body. If the diaper is too loose, it also lacks absorption and can create friction against the baby's skin, causing irritation.
Always be observant: Even if parents know how to choose the right diaper size to fit the baby and how to put it on correctly, they also need to pay attention and be observant of the baby, especially babies who very rarely remain still. Baby's movement can cause the diaper to move and cause leakage.
When parents can choose disposable diapers that fit and are able to fit properly, babies will be able to move around actively and nimbly without any fear of leakage.
Chart of sizes of diapers of different brands
Several brands of disposable diapers are popular in Russia. These are Pampers, Huggies, Libero, Goo.N, Merries. They meet the requirements of GOST, the expectations of parents in terms of quality and price. The sizes of diapers for children in the table will help you make the right choice.
Pampers
This company has the most complex range of products for children. You need to choose not only by size, but also by the age of the child. Velcro diapers are needed for children up to six months - eight months - these are the Premium Care, Active Baby, Sleep & Play lines. Pampers Pants will come in handy during periods of active crawling and walking of the child. Each series has its own size range.
| Size, kg (Series) | 0 (N) | 1 (NB) | 2 (S) | 3 (M) | 4 (L) | 4+ | 5 (XL) | 6 (XXL) |
| Premium Care | From 2.5 | 2-5 | 3-6 | 5-9 | 8-14 | — | 11-25 | — |
| Active Baby Dry | — | 2-5 | 3-6 | 4-9 | 7-14 | 9-16 | 12-18 | From 15 |
| Sleep & Play | — | — | 3-6 | 4-9 | 7-14 | — | 11-18 | — |
| Pants (panties) | — | — | — | 6-11 | 9-14 | — | 12-18 | From 15 |
| Premium Care Pants | — | — | — | 6-11 | 9-14 | — | 12-18 | — |
Libero
The advantage of this company is that the products have stretchy waistbands and sides. Size units are divided based on the weight and age of the baby.
| Size, kg (Series) | 0 (N) | 1 (NB) | 2 (S) | 3 (M) | 4 (L) | 5 (XL) | 6 (XXL) | 7 |
| Comfort | — | — | — | 4-9 | 7-14 | 10-16 | 12-22 | 15-30 |
| Newborn | From 2.5 | 2-5 | 3-6 | 4-9 | 7-14 | — | 10-16 | 15-30 |
| Up & Go | — | — | — | — | 7-11 | 10-14 | 13-20 | 16-26 |
| Zoo | — | — | — | — | 7-11 | 10-14 | 13-20 | 16-26 |
Huggies
Huggies produces high-quality diapers from thin and delicate material. Diapers of sizes 1, 2 and all other sizes do not rub the skin and do not cause allergic reactions in most infants.
On the shelves you can find three series of hygiene products. These are Huggies Classic, Ultra Comfort and Elite Soft. For older children, panties with a special holding belt without fasteners are suitable.
| Size, kg (Series) | 0 (N) | 1 (NB) | 2 (S) | 3 (M) | 4 (L) | 4+ | 5 (XL) | 6 (XXL) |
| Classic | — | — | 3-6 | 4-9 | 7-16 | — | 11-25 | — |
| Ultra Comfort | — | — | — | 5-9 | 8-14 | 10-16 | 11-25 | 10-16 |
| Elite Soft | — | 2-5 | 4-7 | 5-9 | 8-14 | — | 12-22 | — |
| Panties | — | — | — | 7-11 | 9-14 | — | 13-17 | 16-22 |
Merries
The Japanese company Merries cares about the health of low birth weight newborns. It produces diapers in size NB with a soft belt so that disposable panties do not put pressure on the baby’s tummy; an elastic fastener is used. Size M starts at 6 kg. For children of this body weight, the product line includes panties with an elastic band.
| Size, kg (Series) | 0 (N) | 1 (NB) | 2 (S) | 3 (M) | 4 (L) | 5 (XL) | 6 (XXL) |
| Diapers with zipper | — | 0-5 | 4-8 | 6-11 | 9-14 | 12-20 | — |
| Panties | — | — | — | 6-10 | 9-14 | 12-22 | 15-28 |
On a note! Disposable absorbent diapers from Merries are available in two versions: for girls and for boys. Their design took into account certain anatomical features of babies of different sexes.
Goo.N
Another Japanese diaper manufacturing company is Goo.N. The size chart starts with marker N. Suitable for premature babies weighing from 1.8 kg. The diapers are equipped with a moisture indicator, which signals that moisture absorption is at its maximum. When changing the shade of the pattern on your panties, you need to wear a clean diaper.
| Size, kg (Series) | 0 (N) | 1 (NB) | 2 (S) | 3 (M) | 4 (L) | 5 (XL) | 6 (XXL) |
| Diapers with zipper | 1,8-3 | 3-5 | 4-8 | 6-11 | 9-14 | 12-20 | 15-35 |
| Panties | — | — | — | 6-11 | 9-14 | 12-20 | 15-35 |
When choosing diapers of the 2nd and other sizes of any brand, also take into account the volume of the newborn’s body. If your butt, tummy, legs and thighs are plump, take disposable panties with a small size reserve. For thin children, it is better to choose products based exactly on their body weight.
Or use the following chart to match your newborn's waist size to diapers.
| Waist size, cm | Diaper size | Approximate weight of the child, kg | Age, months |
| 32-38 | 1 | 2-4 | 0-2 |
| 38-42 | 2-3 | 4-6 | 0-4 |
| 42-48 | 2-3 | 5-8 | 2-6 |
| 48-52 | 3-4 | 7-12 | 4-8 |
| 48-52 | 4-6 | 8-16 | From 6 |
Each set of disposable underwear must include instructions on how to use the diaper and select the size.
The procedure may be indicated on the outside of the box, usually in the corner. Knowing the weight of the baby, taking into account his fullness or thinness at the waist, hips and legs, choosing diapers of 4, 3 and other sizes that are comfortable for daily wear is not at all difficult.
