HUGGIES Snug & Dry Quilted Diapers, 100-Count

When it comes to disposable diapers, parents will appreciate their many benefits. Not only does this type of diaper reduce leakage, and thus the required amount of weekly laundry, but it’s also extremely convenient. Since there are several different varieties of disposable diapers on the market, there are a few things you’ll want to consider before choosing a brand.

Start by examining how well the diaper absorbs liquid. Huggies Snug & Dry feature four layers of protection to absorb wetness on contact. In addition, their special leak lock system keeps babies dry for as long as 12 hours.

“Obviously the No. 1 question that must be asked when buying diapers is: Does it leak?” Kate Desmond, a safe-sleep expert who’s also a mom of two, says. “If the answer is a resounding no, then you can start to ask follow up questions. Is the diaper soft? Does it smell OK? Does the diaper smell OK when it is full? How long can I go between diaper changes especially in the middle of the night without the diaper leaking and my baby waking?”

Desmond notes that every diaper brand will leak on occasion, as all parents know. If you find your baby’s diapers are leaking consistently, it may be time to try the next size up or switch brands entirely.

You also want to make sure that the diaper is soft on skin and has a comfortable fit. Remember, your baby is going to be wearing diapers for long periods of time once they start sleeping through the night. Some diapers are made with refastenable tabs that are bigger than traditional diapers. This allows for a better fit, which will leave your little one feeling cozier.

“Shockingly, not all diapers are created equal for all babies,” Desmond says. “Depending on the size and shape of your baby’s backside, you may find one brand satisfies your little one’s needs more so than another.”

Verify that the diapers are free of parabens, chlorine and bleach. You don’t want any of those chemicals, which can cause irritation, rubbing up against your baby’s skin day and night. If your baby has sensitive skin, look for the word “hypoallergenic” on the product packaging.

Look to see if the disposable diapers have a way to let you know when you’re infant has wet the diaper. For example, some diapers have a wetness indicator that shows you it’s time for a change. The indicator strip will turn colors when moisture enters the diaper, which eliminates the need for you to physically open the diaper to check for wetness.

“I also look for a diaper that is going to keep my baby feeling dry,” Desmond says. “Does the diaper have the technology to lock moisture away from my baby’s skin? A quality diaper will still feel relatively dry even when it’s full.”

• Check to see if the company selling the diapers has a rewards program. These programs provide you with points for every product you purchase, and since most babies use diapers for at least two years, that’s a lot of possible points on the table. The points can then be exchanged for gifts or coupons for discounted products.
• Diapers can quickly stink up a house, so it’s a good idea to purchase a diaper garbage pail and set it next to your baby’s changing table. Most diaper pails work by having you place the soiled diaper in the bag, and then twisting the bag to seal in the odor after. Once the pail is full, you simply replace the specially designed bag and start over.
• Consider purchasing a few square or rectangular bins to keep under or next to your changing table. Use the bins to store diapers, wipes, baby powder and diaper cream so that they are within arms reach. They make plain bins as well as decorative bins, and most styles are sold at affordable prices.
• Once your baby grows out of a size, you’ll need to decide what to do with the diapers you didn’t use. If you only have a few, you can give them to your child for pretend play. When whole packs remain, consider donating them to your local pregnancy or family planning center.
• When comparing disposable diaper prices, you need to look at both the diaper size and the number of diapers in each pack. No matter what, you’ll be able to find a diaper that fits your budget and your needs.