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Luvs Ultra Leakguards

*Est. $17 cents each

Reviewed

February 2013

by ConsumerSearch

Pros

Inexpensive
Widely available
Not bulky

Cons

Not as soft as other brands
Diapers may split
Heavily perfumed and dyed

Where to Buy

for $32.99

Our Analysis
Specs
3,112 Amazon Reviews

Bottom Line

Available in nearly every grocery and big-box store, Luvs Ultra Leakguards are probably the most well-known economy diaper. Many parents are happy with their absorbency and fit, and most say it's hard to beat the price. However, some reviewers say Luvs lack the softness of pricier brands, and the diapers did not fare well in an independent absorbency test. The strong scent may also be a turnoff for some parents.

Performance

Not absorbent enough for overnight. Most parents say Luvs Ultra Leakguards live up to their name, and absorbency is good. However, a vocal minority says leaks are common, and Luvs flunked an independent lab's absorbency test. Other parents recommend Luvs for daytime use but another brand for nighttime use. Nearly all reviewers like Luvs' lack of bulk, and most say they stretch well and the sizing is fairly accurate. There is no wetness indicator. Some reviewers say the tabs are easy to tear and that the diapers sometimes split, leaving gel beads on their child.

Material

Stiff-feeling, with an overpowering scent. Luvs Ultra Leakguards are a traditional disposable diaper that contain petrolatum, stearyl alcohol and aloe barbadensis extract, among other materials. They include a superabsorbent polymer (SAP), a gel that boosts absorbency (Luvs calls this "absorbent gelling material"). While some parents have expressed concern over the safety of SAP, no studies have established any dangers linked to its use in diapers. The diapers are not biodegradable or compostable, and they are not hypoallergenic. Some reviewers say they feel papery and stiff. Luvs Ultra Leakguards have a powdery scent that a few owners like, but others say it is overpowering. One expert review knocks Luvs for going overboard on dye usage.

Where To Buy

Luvs With Ultra Leakguards Size 4 Diapers 180 Count

(3,112 reviews)
Buy new: $36.69 $32.99 29 New from $23.85

In Stock. Eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping

Our Sources

1. BabyGearLab

Review Credibility: Excellent In lab tests of 20 disposable diapers, BabyGearLab.com ranks Luvs Ultra Leakguards last. Spurrier says they have an "okay" fit but feel cheap, flunked absorbency tests and use excessive perfumes and dyes. While the diapers are easy on the wallet, there are other bargain brands that perform better, the review advises.

Review: The Battle for the Best Disposable Diapers, Juliet Spurrier, Nov. 15, 2012

2. Amazon.com

Review Credibility: Very Good Luvs Ultra Leakguards receive 4.2 out of 5 stars in more than 2,000 customer reviews on Amazon.com. Most reviewers say they are very absorbent, stretchy for a good fit and thin under clothing. They also say the price is right compared to other brands. However, several other reviewers dislike the strong scent and plastic-like feel. Some report leaks, and others say it isn't uncommon for the tabs to tear or the diaper to split open, leaving gel on their babies.

Review: Luvs Premium Stretch Diapers with Ultra Leakguards, Contributors to Amazon.com, As of February 2013

3. Viewpoints.com

Review Credibility: Very Good Luvs Ultra Leakguards receive 79 out of 100 points in more than 1,300 reviews on Viewpoints.com, scoring 5 out of 5 for ease of use and 4 out of 5 for leak prevention, comfort and absorbency. Reviewers like the diapers' price, lack of bulk, reliable sizing and absorbency. However, some find them rough and papery feeling. Others report rashes, leaks, torn tabs and split diapers.

Review: Luvs Ultra Leakguards Diaper Reviews, Contributors to Viewpoints.com, As of February 2013

4. Domestic Randomness

Review Credibility: Very Good This parenting and home blogger loves Luvs Ultra Leakguards for their softness and absorbency, even overnight. She also says the price is good. She wishes they were stretchier around the waist and had a wetness indicator, and notes that Luvs has no rewards program. Overall, though, she says they are a winner, particularly considering the price.

Review: Diaper Wars Review 4: Luvs, "Randomly Fascinated", April 16, 2012

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