Did you get a panic attack the first and the last time when you tried to get diapers? Baby stores are overflowing with diaper sizes, brands, and shapes, so we fully understand if you run out of one.
Take a deep breath, then exhale. Like with anything else, you need time to learn about baby care products.
Although the baby store shelves are filled with an overwhelming number of diaper brands, it’s actually easy to find the right size. You just need to remember a few new facts.
However, do not take this issue lightly — your baby needs to be comfortable in their diapers. The right diaper size is quite important for your child’s health and development.
Finding the Right Diaper Size
The simplest way to find the right size is to take a look at the following chart. As you can see, we put together a diaper size chart by age — you’ll be able to find your baby’s category in no time.
| Diaper Size | Baby-’s Age | Baby’s Weight |
| 0/N | Up to two months | Up to 4.5 kg |
| 1 | Two to four weeks | 4 — 6 kg |
| 2 | Four to seven months | 5 — 8 kg |
| 3 | Seven months to a year | 7 — 13 kg |
| 4 | One to three years | 9 — 17 kg |
| 5 | Over three years | Over 12 kg |
| 6 | Over four years | Over 16 kg |
Basically, this diaper size chart contains everything you need. It’s quite straightforward — you can’t really make a mistake.
Most brands use the very same chart — if you take a look at the back of any package, you’ll see similar diaper sizes, if not the same.
If you decided to use Pampers diapers, for example, you should know they have an extra size. Pampers size chart also contains the seventh category for children who weigh over 18,5 kg.
It’s the Weight that Counts
Although most diaper size charts come with categories defined by your baby’s age, it’s not the pointer you should focus at. The right fit and the right diaper size depends on your baby’s weight.
Babies come in all shapes and sizes. Some grow faster, some are chubbier, while others need diapers longer — it’s completely natural in any case.
Therefore, once you find yourself in that scary baby store again, don’t pay that much attention to the age references. Focus on the weight of your baby instead.
Anyway, you will be able to tell if you made a mistake once you put the diaper on your baby. The truth is your baby will need a diaper change around ten times per day, so no harm will be done.
Look for the following sings.
- First of all, if you can’t put the diaper on, it means you got the wrong size. It’s important not to use force in this process. If it doesn’t want to close properly, you need to check the diaper size chart again.
- Another obvious way to see if you need to look for different diaper sizes is the appearance of red marks. If you can see any when you remove the diaper, it means your baby’s not fully comfortable.
- Furthermore, test the diaper sizes by placing a finger between your baby’s leg or waist and the diaper. You should be able to move it slightly. If not, the diaper is too tight. On the other hand, if you notice a lot of extra space, expect for the diaper to leak because it’s too big.
- Finally, you can measure the distance between the top of the diaper and your baby’s belly button. If the distance is shorter than 5 centimeters or 2 inches, the diaper is too small.
Signs You Need to Switch the Size
You need to keep a close eye on your baby’s development to know when the right time comes to change diaper sizes.
Unfortunately, we can’t tell you exactly how many diapers a baby uses by size — it really depends on your baby. Some babies develop much faster than others.
However, we can tell you that you can stock up with medium-sized diapers, which is somewhere between 10 and 16 kilograms. The fact is that most babies grow into this stage fast and take some time to grow out of it.
Anyway, the right time to switch diaper sizes is when you see that your baby is uncomfortable. Although your child may not be able to speak, they have ways to let you know they don’t like something.
Nevertheless, you shouldn’t wait for that moment — your baby’s discomfort is a cry for help. We already listed some of the signs you need to change diaper sizes above.
In addition, look for signs that your baby’s natural movement is disturbed. If your baby can’t move their legs and crawl freely for example, chances are they are uncomfortable because of the diaper.
Another piece of advice — always go a size larger if possible. However, make sure it’s not too big because you’ll be dealing with not-so-pleasant leaks.
We’re telling you this because larger diaper sizes have a higher absorbing power. This way, you’ll know that your baby’s diaper area isn’t moist and thus you’ll avoid possible rashes.
Final Thoughts
First-time parents are overprotective and extremely careful with their newborns. We have to tell you a secret — babies are parent-proof.
Sure, a newborn needs lots and lots of love and affection, but rest assured that your baby will complain if something is wrong. Babies cry when they are hungry and sleepy, and they will notify you in the same way if they are uncomfortable.
It’s up to you to react immediately.
Whenever you’re in doubt, call your pediatrician. Try not to panic when you’re on the phone and explain all the symptoms carefully. If there’s a reason to panic, your doctor will let you know and they will give you instructions on what to do next.
When there’s no reason to panic, spend some quality time with your newborns. Children are that young just for a while.