Determining when to move to the next diaper size for your child can be tricky. Some children grow at a faster rate than others and transition through diaper sizes more quickly. The same knowledge applies to children with a slow growth rate. Several telltale signs can help you determine when it might be the time to move up in your child’s diaper size.
1. Check the waistline and leg cuffs for redness
If your child’s diaper is too small, you may notice red marks or lines along the waistline and leg cuffs of the diaper. These red marks are a clear sign that your child’s diaper is chafing and irritating the skin. You can use your finger to pull up slightly on the waistband. If you feel tight constriction on your finger, the diaper size is likely too small and probably uncomfortable for your child.
2. Check the diaper tabs positions
If you notice the diapers are fastening closer to your child’s hips rather than their stomach, the diaper may be becoming too small. Tabs securing further apart are a sign that the waistline of the diaper could fit better by increasing to the next diaper size.
3. Make sure the diaper is fully covering the buttocks
If your child’s diaper isn’t fully covering their entire bottom, it is a sure sign the diaper size is too small. A diaper that doesn’t cover all necessary parts will not only be uncomfortable for your child but can also lead to leaks.
4. Check the diaper packaging
Every brand provides a suggested diaper size based on industry data regarding the average weight of children. It is pretty standard for brands to overlap weights when it comes to sizing. If your child is on the end of a size in a brand, they are likely at the beginning of the next size in a different brand. In this instance, it would be a good call to size up.
Healthline offers a handy diaper size chart that is meant to provide a general overview of diaper sizing based on a child’s weight. This chart may help you determine whether your child is in the correct size range of diapers.
5. Keep an eye on leaks
The most common reason your child may need to go up in diaper sizes is when you begin to notice more leaks. Leaks happen when the diaper is not correctly fitting, and it cannot sufficiently hold the amount of urine or feces your child is producing. A larger diaper is capable of holding more waste due to them having more absorbent material. Trying a larger diaper for overnight protection might be a good time to start the transition. Keep in mind that leaks can also happen if a diaper is too large. Just make sure the tabs are snugly closed and the elastic leg gathers are not loosely fitting.
Once you get the hang of it, you will be able to determine when your child needs a larger diaper quickly. Since children are constantly growing, a diaper size change may come unexpectedly. If you have the slightest thought that your child needs a bigger diaper, give it a try. Worst case, they are too large, and you can store them away for future use. Make sure your diaper bag is stocked with the necessities, too. Accidents happen, and being prepared with extra diapers, wipes, and spare clothing can be a blessing.
Many diaper banks accept donations if you have an abundance of diapers leftover from a smaller size and you don’t have anyone to give them to. You can find one near you by visiting the Member Diaper Banks of the National Diaper Bank Network.
We carry a variety of diapers for children of all ages. If you would like assistance determining what diaper size your child needs, our friendly and knowledgeable Product Experts will be happy to help.
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