Best Disposable Diapers

The best disposable diapers keep baby dry and comfortable

Good absorbency is tops on most diaper wish lists, with comfort for baby a close second. Parents say Pampers Swaddlers (*Est. 22 cents each) deliver both. Leaks are rare even overnight, and the cloth-like softness keeps irritation to a minimum, reviewers say. Other favorite features include stretchy, hard-to-break tabs and wetness indicators on smaller sizes. However, some parents find Swaddlers' powdery scent too strong, and others say Swaddlers don't contain up-the-back blowouts as well as diapers with elastic at the waist.

Parents of newborns are fans of Pampers Swaddlers Sensitive (*Est. $25 cents each) , which are hypoallergenic. Swaddlers Sensitive have the same softness and absorbency as regular Swaddlers, and they also have wetness indicators on smaller sizes. Newborn diapers also feature an umbilical cord notch to minimize potential irritation. One expert reviewer says there is nothing particularly sensitive about the materials used in Swaddlers Sensitive, and some parents wish Pampers would stop using perfume in their diapers.

For older babies and toddlers who are on the go, fit becomes especially important. Parents say Huggies Little Movers (*Est. $25 cents each) are thin and trim under clothing, and that the elasticized waist and legs help contain messes. The diapers are unscented, which some parents like, while others say that just means you can smell urine faster. Reviewers are more divided on absorbency, with some saying leaks are common.

Bargain-minded parents often turn to Luvs Ultra Leakguards (*Est. $17 cents each) , the most widely available budget disposable. Reviewers say the diapers are trim, true to size and stretchy, and many parents report no problems with leaks. However, Luvs performed poorly on an expert absorbency test, and reviewers say they are not as soft as more expensive brands. The diapers are also heavily perfumed and dyed, which some parents dislike.