Best Disposable Diapers (2022 Guide)
This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read my disclosure.When you have little ones at home, you know just how important it is to invest in quality diapers. But with so many to choose from, how do you know which diaper is the right one for your family? If you’re on the hunt for the best disposable diaper on the market, then you have come to the right place.
In this comprehensive guide to the best disposable diapers of 2022, I will be covering everything from newborn diapers to swim diapers and training pants. I’ve done the research so you don’t have to!
Overall, my top pick is Kudos Diapers but read on to see the best of the best in newborn diapers to swim diapers and training pants! Get ready to learn everything you need to know about how to choose the best disposable diaper for your baby!
How To Choose A Disposable Diaper
There are several things to look for when choosing the right disposable diaper for your child. You’re going to want diapers that have an absorbent core, are made from soft material (bonus points if it’s organic!), and are free from harsh chemicals. Additionally, I always recommend considering eco-friendly diapers from reputable brands you can trust.
Overall, here are the six things to consider when trying to choose the best disposable diaper for your child:
Absorbency: How absorbent are the diapers you’re choosing? How is their leak protection? The more absorbent the better, as it will prevent from messes and cleanups down the line!
Comfort: Comfort is key since your baby will be in diapers for the first ~2 years of their life. You’ll want to ask questions like: Does the diaper move with your baby? Does it have flexible leg cuffs and stretchy side panels? Are the tabs comfortable?
Price: Diapers range in price pretty significantly so you’ll want to find one that’s at a price point you’re comfortable with.
Environmental Impact: Is your diaper made with renewable materials? Is it biodegradable? These are all factors to consider when choosing a diaper for your child.
Sensitive Skin & Materials: Not all diapers are created equal – and some use materials and chemicals that may be harsh for your baby’s skin. The more eco friendly and all natural the diaper, the better!
Other Features: Look for things like wetness indicators, leak proof materials, double grip strips, etc.
Disposable Vs. Cloth Diapers
Both disposable and cloth diapers can be comfortable options for your baby as long as they are changed frequently. It doesn’t matter if it is cloth or disposable, leaving a soiled diaper on your baby’s bottom can cause diaper rash. Thanks to modern technology, cloth diapers have become about as easy to use as disposable diapers.
Of course, there are some notable differences between the two.
First off, some disposable diapers are known to contain harsh chemicals that can lead to diaper rash on sensitive skin and cloth diapers are a bit less absorbent (meaning you will have to change them more often).
Cloth diapers cost more upfront, but are significantly more affordable in the long run since you can reuse them for up to a few years.
It’s also important to note that a lot of people are under the impression that cloth diapers are better for the environment. However, after you’ve accounted for the electricity and water required to clean your cloth diapers, the two have similar environmental impacts. See more details about the differences between the two here.
Are Eco-Friendly Or Organic Diapers Better?
Stuck deciding between eco friendly and organic diapers? I don’t blame you, as both are popular choices in the diaper world. Because organic diapers are made with natural materials (usually plant-derived), they tend to be softer and gentler on a baby’s sensitive skin. However, eco-friendly disposable diapers are usually biodegradable and/or compostable, causing less of an environmental impact. The ideal is an organic and eco friendly diaper!
So, which are the right diapers for you? Well, like so many other decisions you will make as a parent, the answer is less about deciding on the “best choice” and more about finding the diapers that are a good fit for you and your family.
Diapering Essentials
Aside from selecting their diaper brands of choice, new parents are probably wondering what other diapering equipment they will need, right? Well, here are some of my favorite diapering essentials that I couldn’t live without when my kids were little!
- Diaper pail. A diaper pail is great for immediately disposing of dirty diapers without having to leave your baby’s side. The diaper genie is a popular type of diaper pail for new parents, but keep in mind they require the recurring purchase of refill bags that will add to its lifetime expense.
- Baby wipes. You can expect to use a lot of wipes to keep your baby’s bottom clean. For this reason, it is always a good idea to buy them in bulk. However, you don’t need to buy a wipe warmer, as these tend to be the perfect environment for bacteria and fungi to grow.
- Changing pad. Changing pads are good options for saving space, keeping everything in one place, making sure your baby is comfortable, and taking your changing station on the road if needed.
- Changing pad cover. If you have a changing pad, you’re also going to need a changing pad cover. I recommend buying at least two waterproof covers so that you always have a backup in case of emergencies.
Best Disposable Diapers 2022
1. Kudos Diapers – Best Overall & Best Organic
Kudos diapers are the most natural, leak-defying, feel-good diaper on the market, making them my top pick for the best disposable diapers – hands down!
Why We Like Them: These diapers (made by moms and former MIT and P&G engineers!) boast patent-pending technology that features two absorption layers instead of one. They are made with 4x the plant-based components than traditional disposable diapers. They are also the first and only disposable diaper where your baby’s sensitive skin touches only 100% cotton all day. Not plastic. This matters because cotton is the #1 doctor-recommended material for those suffering from rash and eczema. They are also Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified!
Number Of Diapers Per Package: You can purchase monthly boxes (216 diapers), half-monthly boxes (108 diapers), or a sample box (27 diapers).
Price Per Diaper: Depending on the package you choose, these baby diapers range from $0.36/diaper (monthly subscription) to $0.52/diaper (sample box).
Size Range: Diaper sizes 1-6.
Wetness Indicator? Yes.
Pros: These chemical free diapers are made with plant-based materials (like sugar cane and trees) that are free from chlorine, latex, parabens, lotions, fragrances, and phthalates. They are a great choice if you are looking for a disposable diaper that has a hypoallergenic inner liner and is super gentle for baby’s bum. They are the safest diapers for your baby overall.
Cons: Some customers report that the tabs are somewhat tough to undo (but this might not be a bad thing as your baby gets older! 🙂 ). Kudos is also more of a premium diaper, at a higher price point than other brands.
2. Pampers Swaddlers – Best Disposable Diaper for Newborns
These hypoallergenic diapers are ultra-soft and perfect for sensitive, newborn skin. They’re also leak proof and come in a variety of sizes.
Why We Like Them: Pampers Swaddlers diapers are soft, comfy, and flexible. They even contain a cut-out for the umbilical cord so you don’t have to worry about skin irritation.
Number Of Diapers Per Package: You can purchase boxes of 20 diapers, 84 diapers, 136 diapers, or 140 diapers.
Price Per Diaper: Depending on the box you choose, these diapers range from $0.99 for a single diaper (20ct) to $0.31/diaper (140ct).
Size Range: From size 0 to size 7.
Wetness Indicator? Yes.
Pros: These diapers are the #1 pediatrician recommended brand for newborn comfort. They have great leak protection as well. When you buy them in bulk, they can be pretty affordable since you go through diapers quickly during that newborn phase! Pampers also has a more natural diaper in their Pampers Pure diapers line, for those looking for a more natural option.
Cons: They are not environmentally friendly. Made from majority plastic, contains fragrance and other common irritants and allergens that can release VOCs.
3. Healthy Baby – Best Disposable Diaper for Sensitive Skin
Healthy Baby’s diapers are the best for sensitive skin because they are made with plant-based ingredients and adhere to food-grade quality standards.
Why We Like Them: These are the first-ever EWG Verified Diapers: non-toxic, dreamy, soft, and effective.
Number Of Diapers Per Package: Each package comes with 40 diapers.
Price Per Diaper: Each package costs $30, so $1.33/diaper.
Size Range: From size 1 to size 6.
Wetness Indicator Strip? No.
Pros: These are great diapers for your baby’s developing brain and body, and their soft, premium organic cotton keeps your baby cozy all night long.
Cons: Unless you subscribe to their subscription service, these can be a little pricey.
4. Eco Pea Bamboo Diapers – Best Bamboo Disposable Diapers
These bamboo natural diapers are crafted using sustainable and biodegradable bamboo sheets with an FSC-certified bamboo core. This means that no trees were harmed in the making of its wood pulp.
Why We Like Them: Eco Pea Bamboo Diapers are hypoallergenic, dermatologist-tested, and made without harsh chemicals, fragrances, and chlorine.
Number Of Diapers Per Package: Each package comes with 32 diapers.
Price Per Diaper: These cost $0.55/diaper when making a one-time purchase and $0.44/diaper when purchasing via subscription.
Size Range: From size 0 to size 6.
Wetness Indicator Strip? Yes!
Pros: These diapers are vegan, cruelty-free, gluten-free, and come in 100% compostable packaging.
Cons: Some customers report that shipping can take quite a while. Additionally, bamboo undergoes harsh chemical processing that is toxic to the environment and those who work with it.
5. Andy Pandy Bamboo Disposable Diapers – Best Sustainable Diapers
Made with bamboo fibers, these sustainable and biodegradable diapers are ultra-comfy for the baby, super convenient for mom and dad, and even better for the planet.
Why We Like Them: The best part about these diapers is that they are about 87% biodegradable, degrading more than 60% in just 75 days. They’re probably the best biodegradable diapers on the market today.
Number Of Diapers Per Package: Standard packages come with 44 diapers, and cartons come with 132 diapers.
Price Per Diaper: Depending on how you choose to purchase, these diapers range from $0.34/diaper to $0.29/diaper.
Size Range: They are available in both newborn and small sizes.
Wetness Indicator Strip? No.
Pros: They are moisture-wicking to stave off diaper rash, and they are free of both alcohol and elemental chlorine. One of the best diapers for the environment you can buy.
Cons: Shipping is limited to the United States.
6. Dyper – Best Compostable Diapers
Dyper boasts natural diapers that are better for you, better for your baby, better for the planet, and better for your wallet. Basically, Dyper is a wonderful choice for environmentally-conscious parents looking to compost. Sounds pretty good, huh?
Why We Like Them: Their subscription service guarantees that you will never have any extra diapers and that you will never run out. Also, they cut out the middleman to save you money on shipping.
Number Of Diapers Per Package: Dyper subscription boxes are customized to hold the exact number of diapers that your baby needs, specifically.
Price Per Diaper: The subscription service costs $80 no matter what size diaper you need or quantity that you purchase. Shipping is free.
Size Range: They are available in different sizes from 0 to 6.
Wetness Indicator Strip? No.
Pros: If you run out of diapers before your next delivery, you can request an emergency delivery via Dyper’s SOS service, and diapers will arrive at your front door within 4 hours.
Cons: You can only purchase their diapers via subscription. These diapers may also have poor leak protection overnight / overnight performance.
7. Luvs – Best Budget-Friendly Diapers
Luvs diapers are ultra budget-friendly, without sacrificing all the bells and whistles that come with a quality diaper brand you can feel good about.
Why We Like Them: These diapers have triple leak guards that help keep your baby dry, and their night-lock technology locks away wetness for up to 12 hours.
Number Of Diapers Per Package: They come in packs of 252 diapers.
Price Per Diaper: You can purchase Luvs for less than $0.20/diaper.
Size Range: They are available in sizes 0-6.
Wetness Indicator Strip? Yes.
Pros: These diapers come at an affordable price, yet they still protect your little one’s sensitive skin. They’re the best choice if you are looking for a budget friendly disposable diaper.
Cons: Some customers report that Luvs diapers have a funky smell to them. They contain harsh chemicals that most commercial diapers use, that can cause an allergic reaction or diaper rash for your baby.
8. Huggies Overnites Diapers – Best Overnight Diapers
Personally, I find Huggies Overnites to be the best for overnight wear. They’re equipped with extra absorbency and a softness that provides all the protection necessary for a full night’s sleep for your little ones.
Why We Like Them: These diapers offer 12 hours of protection thanks to their extra absorbency and double leak guards.
Number Of Diapers Per Package: Huggies Overnights are available in packs of 80 diapers, 4 packs of 28 diapers, and packs of 132 diapers.
Price Per Diaper: Depending on which pack you choose to purchase, you will pay anywhere from $0.31/diaper to $0.38/diaper.
Size Range: They are available in sizes 3-6.
Wetness Indicator Strip? No.
Pros: Their double-grip strips work to keep the diaper in place all night long. They are a popular choice for those looking for all-night leak proof protection.
Cons: Their smallest size available is a 3. Additionally, they contain mostly fossil-fuel-derived plastic, in addition to common chemicals in diapers and allergens like fragrances, phthalates, chlorine, and VOCs.
9. Pampers Cruisers – Best Toddler Diapers
Pampers Cruisers are probably the best diapers for active babies. Equipped with a 360° elastic waistband, breathable sides, and disposable tape, these diapers provide the perfect fit for babies on the move.
Why We Like Them: Cruisers boast 3 layers of absorption, have a flexible fit that molds to all body types, and are great for overnight use.
Number Of Diapers Per Package: You can find Pampers Cruisers in packs of 26, 40, 108, and 168 diapers.
Price Per Diaper: The price you pay per diaper will depend on which pack you choose to purchase. However, you can expect to pay about $0.32/diaper on average.
Size Range: They are available in sizes 3-7.
Wetness Indicator Strip? No.
Pros: Thanks to their dual leak-guard barriers, leaks and/or blow-outs are super rare with these diapers.
Cons: They aren’t as soft or padded as Pampers Swaddlers. Additionally, they contain mostly fossil-fuel-derived plastic, in addition to common irritants and allergens like fragrances, phthalates, chlorine, and VOCs.
10. Honest Training Pants – Best Pull-Ups/Training Pants
Honest Company diapers and award-winning training pants are eco-friendly, come on and off easily, and make potty training your little ones not-so-bad.
Why We Like Them: Not only are these diapers fantastic training pants options, but they are covered in fun patterns and characters that your kiddos will love.
Number Of Diapers Per Package: These training pants come in packs of 26.
Price Per Diaper: A pack costs about $21, making them about $0.81/diaper.
Size Range: They are available in sizes 2T/3T, 3T/4T, and 4T/5T.
Wetness Indicator Strip? No.
Pros: These training pants are super soft and padded, yet are free from most harsh chemicals.
Cons: They do run on the bigger size, so starting with the smallest size might still be a tad roomy.
11. Eco by Naty – Best Eco-Friendly Disposable Diapers
These earth friendly diapers have 0% oil-based plastic on the skin, no nasty chemicals, and they stay just as dry as other premium diapers. They are one of the best eco diapers on the market today.
Why We Like Them: The diaper’s core is made mostly from FSC certified wood pulp, which is not only eco-friendly but great at soaking up liquid. The other layers are also made from sustainable materials.
Number Of Diapers Per Package: These training pants come in packs of 26.
Price Per Diaper: A pack of these eco-friendly diapers costs about $10, making them about $0.38/diaper.
Size Range: They are available in sizes 0-6.
Wetness Indicator Strip? No.
Pros: These eco friendly nappies are delivered in over 70% renewable packaging, and are relatively budget friendly for an environmentally friendly diaper.
Cons: Some customers say that the fit is a bit off, and the shipping/handling can sometimes be unreliable.
12. Pampers Splashers – Best Disposable Swim Diapers
A lot of swim diapers are reusable, but I seriously think Pampers Splashers give reusable diapers a run for their money. While disposable swim diapers typically aren’t as durable as their reusable counterparts, these come pretty darn close.
Why We Like Them: They’re designed with a no-swell core that — you guessed it — doesn’t swell in water like usual diapers.
Number Of Diapers Per Package: These swim diapers come in packs of 20.
Price Per Diaper: They cost about $0.45/diaper.
Size Range: They are available in sizes 3-5 or small-large.
Wetness Indicator Strip? No.
Pros: Their 360° stretchy waistband gives these diapers a bathing-suit-like feel. Not only that but they’re covered in cute designs that are meant to look like swimwear.
Cons: Water can sometimes pool up inside after swimming.
13. Mama Bear Diapers by Amazon – Best Store-Brand Disposable Diapers
When it comes to diapers, a lot of people only think of big-name brands like Huggies, Pampers, or Honest diapers. However, a lot of major retailers sponsor different brands of diapers that work just as well. Of all the store-brand diapers, Mama Bear Diapers by Amazon are my favorite.
Why We Like Them: Mama Bear offers two types of diapers: plush protection and gentle touch. They are hypoallergenic and offer up to 12 hours of protection.
Number Of Diapers Per Package: These diapers come in 4 packs of 33.
Price Per Diaper: They cost about $0.26/diaper.
Size Range: They are available in sizes 0-7.
Wetness Indicator Strip? Yes!
Pros: They are comparable to Pampers Swaddlers, but you can get them for significantly cheaper!
Cons: Both varieties of Mama Bear diapers are made predominantly from oil-based plastics.
14. Hello Bello – Best Subscription Diapers
Founded by celebrity parents (who doesn’t love Kristen Bell?!), Hello Bello diapers boasts a high-quality, plant-based diaper subscription for those on a budget.
Why We Like Them: Each shipment includes 4 packs of wipes, which is certainly a plus.
Number Of Diapers Per Package: Each bundle comes with 7 packs of diapers, but the exact amount per package depends on what size diaper you’re ordering.
Price: It costs $65/shipment.
Size Range: Newborn through size 6.
Wetness Indicator Strip? No.
Pros: These diapers come in ultra-cute patterns, are made from plant-based materials, and are seriously soft.
Cons: They are not the most eco-friendly diapers on the market, and some customers complain about their absorbency.
Disposable Diaper FAQs
Here are the answers to everything you need to know about disposable diapers!
How do you figure out what size diaper your baby needs?
The best way to figure out what size diaper your baby needs is to use their current weight as a guide. Typically, newborns up to 8-10 lbs will fit into newborn size diapers, Size 1 is 8-14 lbs, Size 2 is 12-18 lbs, etc. You can see all of the size to weight ratios in this helpful guide.
To determine when to size up your baby’s diaper – the best way to do that is to inspect the one they are currently wearing. If you notice red marks around your baby’s upper legs or tummy, then it might be time to size up.
How do you prevent diaper rash?
Diaper rash is prevented by keeping your baby’s skin as clean and dry as possible. Doing so means you will need to change their diapers often (aka as soon as they’re full).
Additionally, choosing diapers with all natural, hypoallergenic ingredients (like Kudos Diapers) helps with preventing diaper rash caused by skin sensitivities to plastics and other skin-irritating materials in traditional diapers.
How do you dispose of dirty disposable diapers?
If you have a diaper pail, you can just wrap the diaper as tightly as possible (to reduce spillage) and use the sticky tape sections to seal it, then toss it in the diaper pail and walk away 🙂
If you don’t have a diaper pail, a sealed trash can will work, but in that case, I recommend flushing the solid waste down the toilet to reduce the smell. Then, you can wrap the diaper, seal it with the sticky tape, and dispose of your dirty diapers in the trash can.
Are diapers 100% compostable or biodegradable?
The short answer is no. Unfortunately, there is no such thing as a 100% biodegradable diaper. However, don’t fret. The good news is that some brands offer 75% compostable diapers (compared to the average of 25-50%).
And our top pick for the best environmentally friendly diapers, Kudos, is on a mission to get as much plastic out of the disposable diaper and as many plant-based, biodegradable, renewable materials in. Hopefully, we will have a fully compostable and biodegradable diaper one day soon. When that day comes, I will make sure to update this post and let you know!
Can diapers expire?
While disposable diapers do not have an expiration date, many manufacturers recommend using your nappies within a few years for the best results. If you wind up with extra diapers after you no longer need them, you can save them for future children or donate them to your local shelter.
Final Thoughts
Well, there you have it! These are my top picks for the best disposable nappies worth checking out in 2022. For more recipes, tips, and recommendations to help your little ones grow into healthy and strong children, check out the Best For Kids section of my blog.
Did I leave out your favorite natural disposable diapers? Or do you have any other questions about the best option for your little one? Feel free to leave me a comment, I respond to every question I get! 🙂
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