After birth, a newborn needs to be cared for and given the utmost attention. Besides breast milk or formula, diapers are an essential item to ensure the health of a newborn and prevent skin infection. However, due to the plethora of products coming from well-known brands such as Huggies, Pampers, or Pure Protection, choosing a suitable product that can provide your child with the most comfort seems to be challenging.
Understanding that struggle, we browsed through many reviews on Amazon and compiled a list of the 10 best diapers for newborns to help you quickly figure out which item to purchase. One of our favorites is Huggies Little Snugglers since they're soft, absorbent, and secure. We also included a buying guide to help you decide which is the best for your baby, so check it out!
Quick List - Top Diapers for Newborns
Pampers
Best for the Comfortable Fit and the Baby-Powder Scent
Mama Koala
Best Reuseable Cloth Diapers That Provide a Snug Fit
Melina has been a registered nurse for over 30 years, and she currently works as a Resource Nurse at a Level 3 Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
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When choosing a diaper, there are various things that you should consider including the material, absorbency, and skin-friendliness. Take a look at our buying guide for more detailed suggestions!
Diapers can be categorized into two types: cloth (or reusable) and disposable. Each type has its own pros and cons that you should take into consideration before making a purchase.
Many families prefer disposable diapers due to their unbeatable convenience: you don't have to wash or dry the diaper at all. Compared to reusable diapers, disposable products are more absorbent since they often contain super absorbent polymer (sodium polyacrylate), which can absorb liquid quickly.
However, using disposable diapers can be really expensive, since you have to use multiple diapers per day. Most disposable diapers are also not biodegradable, thus not really friendly for the environment.
Another thing to keep in mind is that disposable diapers might contain potential irritants like fragrance, dyes, latex, and phthalates. Those irritants might lead to diaper rash. Therefore, look for disposables free from those irritants!
As a NICU RN, I've had extensive experiences with disposable diapers. The brand used in our hospital is Pampers. They come in many different sizes and fit our babies weighing between one and 12 pounds. They protect our fragile infants' skin against irritation and rashes.
Cloth diapers are the traditional type that has been used for ages. They're reusable, cost-saving, and eco-friendly.
The best point about cloth diapers is their skin-friendliness. They are usually made with materials like polyester, cotton, hemp, and cotton and are usually not treated with chemicals like phthalates or fragrances. Therefore, compared to disposable diapers, they are gentler on your newborn's skin.
However, the absorbent properties of cloth diapers are not as good as disposable ones. Furthermore, cloth diapers cannot hold a lot of blow-outs. Leakage is a big problem for this type as well.
If you want to support the environment, consider biodegradable diapers. Biodegradable diapers are usually made from sustainable sources such as bamboo and cotton and contain no pesticides or potentially harmful chemicals, making them safer for the skin.
You can also look for diapers certified by accredited organizations such as the Sustainable Forestry Initiative or Forest Sustainability Council. They are produced from sustainable sources and tested to be safe for the environment. They are less likely to be harmful to the skin as well.
The skin of newborns is particularly delicate, and can be irritated by temperature changes or chemical stresses. Rubbing from the diaper can also lead to skin rashes, especially if the material is a bit tough and contains chemicals.
As a result, choosing a diaper that can provide softness, good absorbency, and breathability is of utmost importance to ensure comfort for your newborn.
Harsh chemicals such as chlorine and dye should absolutely be avoided in order to prevent potential allergic reactions. Chlorine is used to clean the fibers in the diapers, but because of its irritating effect on the skin, many brands opt for chlorine dioxide instead.
Yet, chlorine dioxide can still create dioxins, toxic compounds that can severely irritate your newborns' sensitive skin. Therefore, to be safe, you should choose diapers that are totally chlorine-free.
Many diapers also include fragrance. Even in tiny amounts, fragrance can still irritate the sensitive skin of newborns. Instead, opt for dermatologist-tested, hypoallergenic diapers that are completely free of harmful toxins.
Coarse materials can lead to chafing and rashes, so diapers need to be soft to the touch so that your newborn can feel at ease all the time. Cloth diapers are a great choice since their silky smooth material provides your newborns with a cushiony feel.
If you prefer disposable diapers, you should opt for products that are fabric or cloth-like in texture. Also, you should choose a product that can flex easily when your baby moves around.
Tight diapers can leave marks and even cause pain, but loose diapers will not stay on and will fall apart when your baby wiggles around. Therefore, you should look for products with stretchy sides, an umbilical notch, and a fastening system for a contoured, flexible fit.
Specifically, an umbilical notch ensures that your newborn's sensitive belly button area is untouched by the edges of the diaper and gives your baby a sense of comfort. Fastening systems such as snaps, grip strips, and side tabs help secure the diapers in place and prevent sagging. Leg cuffs provide a good fit around the thigh and prevent side leaks.
Also, keep in mind that the size of the diapers is based on the baby's weight. So, before purchasing diapers, check your baby's weight! Usually, newborn diapers are labeled with an N and can fit babies up to 10 pounds. But of course, sizes vary depending on the brand.
The Pampers used in our NICU are very soft and fit many different sizes and shapes of babies that we care for. There really are a ton of different sizes and shapes, but this brand has helped us out so many times.
A diaper with poor absorbency will expose your newborns' skin to dampness, causing diaper rash and severe discomfort. Therefore, you should choose a disposable diaper with a strong, absorbent core.
Typically, the core of many diaper products contains super absorbent polymer (SAP), which can absorb the pee and fecal matter and leave the diaper with a feel-good dryness. A good product should be able to provide your newborn with long-lasting protection.
Cloth diapers can be easily soaked in pee much faster than disposable ones, so you should change them frequently to ensure comfort for your baby. Go for cloth diapers made from bamboo, cotton, or microfiber, since they are highly absorbent.
You should also pick cloth diapers that have a waterproof outer layer made from either thermoplastic polyurethane or polyurethane laminate to prevent leakage.
A diaper should also have good breathability to give your newborn that dry, fresh feeling. You should see if the diapers have air channels or have enough space for air to flow inside. Many diapers also have extra liners or inserts for more absorbency.
Pampers are highly absorbent and are effective at preventing diaper rash, even in the smallest babies that are at most risk for rash and infection. We see all kinds of skin conditions in our unit, but Pampers has continued to be a reliable choice for us.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Huggies Little Snugglers Baby Diapers | ![]() | Best for Preventing Leakage and Blowout | |
2 | Pampers Swaddlers Disposable Baby Diapers for Newbborn | ![]() | Best for the Comfortable Fit and the Baby-Powder Scent | |
3 | Mama Koala One Size Baby Washable Reusable Pocket Cloth Diapers | ![]() | Best Reuseable Cloth Diapers That Provide a Snug Fit | |
4 | Huggies Huggies Diapers Special Delivery | ![]() | Best Gentle and Hypoallergenic Diapers for Sensitive Skin | |
5 | Earth & Eden Baby Diapers | ![]() | Best Eco-Friendly Disposable Diapers With a Cotton Layer for Extra Comfort | |
6 | Beau & Belle Littles Nageuret Reusable Swim Diaper | ![]() | Best Swim Diaper That Holds up Against Leaks | |
7 | Dyper Bamboo Disposable Diapers | ![]() | Best Biodegradable Diapers Made from 100 Percent Bamboo | |
8 | Luvs Swaddlers Sensitive Disposable Diapers | ![]() | Best Leak-Proof Diapers for Overnight Use | |
9 | Alva Alvababy Pocket Diapers | ![]() | Best for the Soft, Breathable, and Easy-to-Clean Material | |
10 | Parent's Choice Our Best Fit Every Diapers | ![]() | Currently unavailable | Best for the Soft, Absorbent Material |
Pros:
Cons:
Huggies' diapers feature double-grip strips and pocketed waistbands to prevent leakage and blowouts. Moreover, the diapers are free of potentially harmful chemicals such as fragrance, latex, and chlorine, and are less likely to irritate your baby's sensitive skin. They also fit babies up to 35 pounds.
A few buyers complain that the diapers have an unpleasant smell. Still, many compliment the Velcro part that helps the diaper to stay on tight even when the newborns move around quickly or wiggle a lot. These diapers have been approved by many reviewers for their cushiony softness and great absorbent capacity that can contain blow-outs very well.
Pros:
Cons:
Pampers' diapers have stretchy sides and also an umbilical cord cut-out to ensure nothing can touch and irritate your baby's belly button area. On top of that, the heart quilt liners pull wetness and mess away from the skin while giving your newborns the soft comfort they need. The air channels distribute moisture evenly, keeping your newborns dry and comfortable.
A few buyers find that the diapers are too thin and leak easily. So they might not be suitable for overnight use. Meanwhile, many others compliment the diapers for their comfortable stretch on their newborns. Another plus point for buyers is that these diapers have a baby-powder scent to help get rid of the foul odors.
Pros:
These one-size, reusable cloth diapers can support your newborns from when they are eight pounds until they grow to 35 pounds! Also, the three-layer microfiber inserts in each diaper help pull away all the wetness. Furthermore, the waterproof TPU outer can dry quickly to ensure that your newborn feels soft and comfy all the time.
A few buyers complain these snaps come off easily. On another note, many parents compliment that the inserts are soft, thick, and effective in preventing leakage. There are also reports that the sides of the diapers are stretchy enough to fit comfortably. Many also think that the designs are cute and washing is not a hassle at all.
Pros:
If you are worried that the materials of diapers can affect your newborn's sensitive skin, then Huggies' hypoallergenic diaper might be a great choice for you. Made with 23 percent of plant-based materials, this product is free from potentially irritating factors such as fragrance, parabens, or elemental chlorine bleach. Plus, it has been clinically proven and dermatologist-tested.
Huggies promises that these diapers are its softest ever, and many reviewers approve of that statement. However, some say that they don't absorb well and don't keep their baby dry through the night. Still, many like that they are gentle on their baby's sensitive skin. It's said that the diapers have a good stretch, too!
Pros:
Cons:
Earth & Eden's diapers are made from sustainably sourced fluff and certified by the Sustainable Forestry Initiative. They're also free from fragrances, chlorine, or lotion, and are clinically proven to be gentle on the skin. The cotton-enhanced dryness layer adds extra softness and provides the ultimate care for your newborns' skin!
A few buyers complain that the diapers are too tight and rub their baby's skin. Yet, many reviewers love these natural diapers for their outstanding absorbency. They say the diapers are smooth and silky inside out, providing their newborns comfort all the time. On top of that, it's said that the diapers don't irritate their baby's skin.
Pros:
If you want to go swimming with your newborn but are scared of their blow-outs, you may want to consider this swim diaper! Made with 100 percent PUL polyester, this diaper is soft and easy to clean. There's no inner absorbing layer, which can weigh your baby's bottom down when water gets in and lead to rashes. Instead, the outer layer is strong enough to hold all of the mess.
Some buyers comment that this diaper is too tight around the thigh area and causes pain for newborns. On the other hand, many reviewers are amazed at the quality of the diaper and further mention that they find no leakage whatsoever! The adorable design is another plus.
Pros:
Cons:
Made from 100 percent bamboo fiber, the diapers are ultra-comfortable to wear and free of potentially irritating chemicals such as chlorine, phthalates, or latex. Since they are hypoallergenic and antimicrobial, so you don't have to worry about diaper rashes or any skin irritation. These bamboo diapers are also eco-friendly.
A couple of buyers complain that these diapers leak too much. However, the majority agree that they are ultra-soft and comfortable to wear. Many also praise the simple design. Another bonus for buyers is that these diapers are safe for their baby's skin and don't lead to diaper rashes.
Pros:
Cons:
If you're looking for diapers that are strong enough to last the night, consider Luvs' Pro-Level Leak Protection Diapers! They have three absorption channels to wick away moisture quickly and keep your baby dry for up to 12 hours. On top of that, the snug elasticated cuffs help prevent side leaks and blowouts.
A few buyers comment that these diapers irritate their baby's skin. In fact, these diapers contain fragrance and might not work for babies with fragrance sensitivity. Nonetheless, many others confirm that they are effective in preventing leakage and keeping the baby dry and are a great choice for overnight use. Moreover, a lot of buyers find these diapers soft.
Pros:
These cloth diapers with modern designs are suitable for babies less than 12 pounds. Made with washable, waterproof, and breathable material, these diapers are easy to clean. But you should not use them as swim diapers, since pee can still leak through. The elastic legging area provide a good fit.
The small size is the main complaint some buyers have about these diapers. However, most buyers love that these reusable diapers contain leaks well thanks to the three-layer microfiber inserts. Reviewers further mention that these diapers dry quickly in the sun.
Pros:
Cons:
These diapers from Parent's Choice have umbilical cord cut-out and stretchy sides to ensure that your newborn will feel comfortable at all times. There's also a wetness indicator to help you know when you need to change the diaper. These diapers are also hypoallergenic and free of potential irritants like chlorine bleach and fragrances.
According to some buyers, the sizes run very small. Some say the diapers are thin and rip apart easily as well. Nevertheless, the majority are impressed with the fabric feel of the diapers. They mention that the material is soft and cloth-like. There are reports that the diapers are very absorbent and don't irritate their baby's skin.
Yes, petroleum jelly can play a very important role in your newborn's life. Vaseline provides an anti-friction layer between your baby's skin and the diaper material so that there won't be any chafing.
Melina says, "We use this at our NICU to prevent diaper rash." And if there are any irritating substances on your baby's diaper or skin, they won't transfer to each other!
Your baby deserves a lot of attention and pampering, so check out our other articles for some suggestions to please your little precious!
No. 1: Huggies|Little Snugglers Baby Diapers
No. 2: Pampers |Swaddlers Disposable Baby Diapers for Newbborn
No. 3: Mama Koala|One Size Baby Washable Reusable Pocket Cloth Diapers
No. 4: Huggies |Huggies Diapers Special Delivery
No. 5: Earth & Eden |Baby Diapers
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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