Best Diaper Pails

The Munchkin Arm & Hammer is the best diaper pail

A good diaper pail keeps odors under control, and that's why parents rave about the Munchkin Arm & Hammer Diaper Pail (*Est. $30). The Munchkin Arm & Hammer has a built-in baking soda dispenser that sprinkles dirty diapers each time the lid is closed, helping neutralize smells. While it does require special bags, parents say they're a good value and easy to replace. The pail has a capacity of about 25 diapers, which some parents say is too low. Parents also dislike having to push diapers down into the bin, which could lead to messy hands if diapers are not well wrapped.

The Playtex Diaper Genie Elite (*Est. $30), a longtime parent favorite, is a close second to the Munchkin. Experts say this pail is best for parents who covet ease of use. A foot pedal makes operation hands-free, and the Diaper Genie Elite's tall silhouette means you won't have to bend over to use it. Antimicrobial plastic and five-layer bags help minimize the "ick factor" for any germaphobes. But parents complain about the pricey refills and give the pail mixed reviews on odor control, particularly once the lid is open. Many owners also say crucial parts are flimsy and easy to break.

Baby Trend's Diaper Champ Deluxe (*Est. $35) offers a popular money-saving feature: Parents can use standard trash bags instead of having to buy proprietary refills. This simple pail is easy to clean, durable and designed for one-hand use. It is also cloth-diaper compatible. However, it gets poor marks in an especially crucial area: odor control. Some owners say the entire room smells like diapers when using the Diaper Champ Deluxe, particularly after their babies start solid foods. Others say diapers get stuck in the pail's chute as the bin begins to fill.