Aida's Disposable Diaper Guide
UPDATED 11/2023
Babies use a lot of diapers. A lot. It is estimated that a child will use somewhere between 2,500–3,000 diapers in their first year of life, number of diapers in the first year of life.
In an ideal world, for environmental and toxicity reasons, we would use reusable diapers (one sole diaper can take up to 500 years to decompose!) … however that is not always possible for many reasons.
The reality is that most babies today will use disposable diapers, either full-time or part time. So here is what to look for in the ‘best’ disposable diapers:
1. Specify they are phthalate free
Phthalates: A study out of Korea in 2020 first found phthalates in 4 leading diaper brands (as well as in some female sanitary pads). While small, researchers looked at diapers from markets in Korea, Japan, Finland, France, Greece, and the United States. Very few diapers are transparent about phthalates testing, however these can be used plastic components, glues, fragrances and even dyes. Phthalates are so well documented to be harmful to our health that there is no way you want phthalate exposure in direct contact with the skin around the external genitalia (that a diaper covers) that I consider phthalate testing and transparency one of the most important ‘deal breakers’ when choosing a diaper today.
Phthalates are extremely well studied endocrine disruptors that mimic our hormones leading to imbalances in our hormone levels. Their potential harmful effects on reproductive development is well established. They lower testosterone, sperm count and their linked to childhood obesity, asthma, neurological problems, cardiovascular issues and even cancer. Recent research has found that phthalate exposure (during pregnancy) can also harm the developing brain.
These chemicals are used to:
1. Help a fragrance bind to a product
2. Help brittle pvc become more flexible and malleable
3. Give plastic flexibility
In diapers they can be used in plastic components as well as dyes and adhesives
8 phthalates are regulated in children’s toys and items in the US. Because the study showing phthalates in female pads and diapers are so knew- diapers are not yet regulated for phthalates.
2. Specify they are fragrance free: Some diapers come with fragrances designed to mask baby’s poop - while this might seem like a good idea to many, the ingredients in fragrance are rarely disclosed and can contain dozens of different chemicals many of which are allergens as well as endocrine disrupters.
3. Free of lotions: often the culprit of diaper rashes, lotions can contain endocrine disruptors like parabens and more
4. Be either Elementally Chlorine Free (ECF) or Totally Chlorine Free (TCF).
Elemental chlorine free (ECF) means bleached with chlorine dioxide instead of elemental chlorine. Total Chlorine Free (TCF) means bleached using any chemicals other than chlorine, chlorine dioxide, or hypochlorite.
The main concern with ECF is that chlorine dioxide can create trace amounts of dioxins, which are known carcinogens.. however to be fair these are very very very low amounts (much less than we find in some foods). While TCF is ideal, ECF is ok.
5. petroleum-derived plastic : with diapers made of organic cotton, cotton, bamboo and other plant based plastics, there is no longer a need to have diapers that is made of 100% petroleum based plastic. These alternatives are better for the environment. Sadly, there is no disposable diaper on the market that currently contains absolutely ZERO petroleum derived plastic components. But I do think it is important to support the trend towards less petroleum based plastic as these are better for the environment
A note on compostable diapers:
After speaking to 3 top diaper manufacturers one thing has become clear: while some newer diapers do have portions of the diapers that are in fact compostable and biodegradable, in order for these parts to break down, they need to be separated from the rest of the diaper and brought to a specific facility where they have the right environment to breakdown over time. There are few of these facilities in the country that accept baby diapers, so the majority of these partly biodegradable diapers end up in a landfill and do not biodegrade or compost.
I do hope that now that the technology exists hopefully one day soon we will be composting all or at least part of our disposable diapers though…because remember one disposable diaper can take up to 500 years to decompose.
6. PFAS free: Up until this week (11/1/2023) no one had tested diapers for PFAS chemicals. These harmful chemicals (a group of thousands of chemicals often used for stain resistance, water proofing and non stick qualities, have been linked to a ton of health issues including: Developmental effects or delays in children, including low birth weight, accelerated puberty, bone variations, or behavioral changes. Increased risk of some cancers, including prostate, kidney, and testicular cancers. Reduced ability of the body's immune system to fight infections) build up inside our bodies and can stay there for up to 20 years at a time which is why its so important to avoid or at least decrease our exposure to these. Sadly they are often not added to products but found in products due to contamination in manufacturing equipment or packaging). Mamavation and EHN.org published their small testing sample that found that Kudos, Babyganics, Kirkland and Rascal and Friends had diapers that tested positive for fluorine (indicative of PFAS). Of these only Kudos made my list below…. I am happy to report that the Kudos took the allegations very seriously and immedietly tested thir diapers and found non detected levels- meaning it is possible mamavations tests were contaminated (?)
Tier 1
These are my top picks. They are here because they are
Transparent: have shown me their phthalate testing (showing non detectible levels) and/or they have Oeko Tex Standard 100 certification (which requires testing for phthalates).
All of the diapers on this list are mostly or at least partially made with non petroleum based plastics
Contain no fragrance nor lotions
Have been tested to show no detected levels of fluorine ( indicative of PFAS)
HEalthynest use code: “3littleplums” for 20% off first purchase
Certifications: OEKO-TEX STandard 100, EWG certified
Phthalate tested: yes- it was provided
Totally Chlorine free
Fragrance free, no lotions
Very low petroleum derived plastics: All parts that come into contact with baby are plant based. Outer cover is made of cotton and polyester. Backsheet is made of plant-based polyethylene.
Cost: 232 size 2 diapers for $105 = .45 a diaper
Phthalates tested: yes and provided testing
Total Chlorine free
No fragrance, no lotions no dyes (however they do contain a “mist” of Aloe essence: that contains Triglyceride, Vegetable and Additives so confirm allergies
low petroleum derived plastic: All parts that come into contact with baby are plant based ( 100% Non-woven bamboo fiber) which is biodegradable. However, to make the diapers more effective and durable, they also make use of some non-biodegradable parts such as the sap, elastics and adhesives
Cost per unit: 94 size small diapers for $35 (with subscription) = .37 a diaper
Nest Diapers (available at Amazon )
Certifications: Oeko Tex Standard 100 certified and Nordic Swan
Phthalate tested: yes via Oeko Tex
Total Chlorine Free
No fragrance, no lotions, no dyes
Very low petroleum derived plastic: plant-based renewable materials. Absorbent Top Sheet: made of 100% plant-based cellulose fiber . Soft Outer Cover: 100% plant-based fiber. Fasteners & Leg Cuffs : Polypropylene and elastic — if you have a composting location nearby you would need to remove these from the diaper in order to compost
Cost per unit: 120 Size 2 diapers for $55.99 = .46 a diaper
ECO by Naty (Available on Amazon )
Certifications: Oeko Tex Standard 100 certified & FSC certified
Phthalate tested: yes (via Oeko Tex)
Total Chlorine-Free fluff pulp
No fragrance, no lotions, no dyes
Very low petroleum derived plastic: using plant based materials and with 0% oil based plastic on your baby's skin.
Cost per unit: 132 size 2 diapers for $51.96 (with subscription) = .39 a diaper
Phthalate tested: yes provided full testing report
Chlorine Free: 0% Chlorine bleaching
No fragrance, no lotions
Components: 25% plant based materials, the rest are petroleum derived plastic: Nonwoven backsheet made of polypropylene and polyester, and topsheet made of polypropylene. High loft nonwoven acquisition layer made of polyester. Hook tab fastening system made of polypropylene / polyethylene, film, adhesive.
Cost per unit: with subscription: 186 diapers for $81 = (without subscription its $90) = .43 a diaper
Kudos: “PLUM15” for 15% off first purchase
Certifications: Oeko Tex Standard 100 certified
Phthalate tested: yes
Total Chlorine Free pulp, and their cotton liner is chlorine-free as well.
No fragrance, no lotions, no dyes
Very low petroleum derived plastic: made mostly with cotton
Cost: 200 size 2 diapers for $78 (with subscription) = .39 a diaper
TIER ONE BUT….. ALL PETROLEUM DERIVED PLASTIC
Rascal and Friends (placing in tier one due to certification BUT wish they were not all petroleum based plastic) * recommend holding off until they conduct investigation re: PFAS in diapers
Certifications: Oeko Tex Standard 100 certified
Phthalate tested: UPDATE: Their diapers are actually OEKO TEX certified, and thus require testing for phthalates.
Chlorine Free: Elemental Chlorine Free Pulp
No fragrance, no lotions
*petroleum derived plastic: Fully (except fluff) made from petroleum derived plastic. Fluff pulp, super absorbent material (SAP), polypropylene nonwoven fabrics, polyethylene film, together with some fastening and elastic materials.
Cost per unit: 200 count size 2 diapers costs $39.97 = .20 each
*please note: these diapers are basically 100% petroleum based plastic. While I have placed them in tier one due to certifications and testing, environmentally not the best
MILLIE MOON (Available at Target) please note: there have been recent complaints about these diapers giving a rash so for now i would avoid or buy and be very cautious / vigilant
Certification: Oeko Tex Standards 100
Phthalate tested: yes (via Oeko Tex Standard 100 certification)
Totally Chlorine free
Fragrance free, no lotions, no latex
*petroleum derived plastics: all (except SAP) petroleum based plastic based: polypropylene nonwoven fabrics, polyethylene film,
Cost: 96 diapers size 2: .32 a diaper at Target
*please note: these diapers are basically 100% petroleum based plastic. While I have placed them in tier one due to certifications and testing, environmentally not the best
Tier 2
The main difference between my tier one and two is : the amount of petroleum derived plastic components and the fact they do not share their phthalate testing and/or do not have third party certification
Thrive Market
Phthalate tested: They say their diapers are phthalate free but “our testing documentation is not something we are able to share publicly.”
Chlorine Free: Total Chlorine Free Pulp
No fragrance, has Citrus Extract & Liquid Chlorophyll that act as Odor Blockers In Absorbent-Core)
petroleum derived plastic: made with 30 to 40% more renewable and sustainable raw materials. Plant-Based PLA (Inner & Outer Layer), Safe Adhesives (In Seams & Joints), Polymer Spandex & Polypropylene (In Leg/Waist System), Citrus Extract & Liquid Chlorophyll (Natural Acting Odor Blockers In Absorbent-Core)
Cost per unit: 144 Size 2 diapers for: $28.79 = .20 a diaper
Pampers Pure (Available on Amazon)
Phthalate tested: They say “We do not add phthalates during the manufacturing of our diapers. We continually monitor our supply chain and avoid any potential traces of phthalates, where possible. If traces were to be detected, they would be insignificant and well below safety limits set by global regulatory bodies, including those for children’s products.” They did not share any phthalate testing.
Chlorine Free: Elemental Chlorine Free Pulp
No fragrance (does contain a “mineral based odor absorber)
petroleum derived plastic: made with (conventional) cotton, diaper topsheet fiber blend includes a soft, plant-based material that comes from sugarcane, polyester, Polypropylene Nonwoven, Thermoplastic Polymers adhesives, Mineral-Based Odor Absorber (no more details provided)
Cost per unit: Diapers Size 2, 186 Count for $61.9 +/- .33 a count
Dyper (available on Amazon )
These used to be tier 1 but they did reformulate and now i would consider tier 2
Certifications: Oeko Tex Standard 100 certified
Phthalate tested: yes (via Oeko Tex)
Total Chlorine-Free fluff pulp
No fragrance, no lotions, no dyes
Very low petroleum derived plastic: 100% Viscose From Bamboo Fibers, Legcuffs: 100% PP, Inner Film: 100% Bioplastic, Elastics: 100% Elastane
Cost per unit: 224 size 2 diapers for $76 = .34 a diaper
TERRA ECO
Made with 85% Plant-Based Materials, these seem like a great new alternative. They say they are phthalate free but I have not been able to see testing nor are they independently certified by an organization that would test for phthalates. Otherwise could be tier 1.
0% Chlorine, Fragrance, Latex, Parabens, Phthalates or Bleach
Breathable back sheet made with 100% biodegradable bamboo fiber
12+ hours of breathable dryness and protection against diaper rash
Plant-Based Wetness Indicator shows how much the diaper has absorbed
Food-Safe Ink only on product & packaging ( testing of ink shared on their website)
Suitable for all skin types and dermatologically rated “excellent”
100% USA natural wood pulp
Core wrap components, wrapped with tissue paper
Tier 3
SIMILAR to tier 2, these companies claim to be phthalate free, but do not provide testing for us to confirm this is true, nor do they have independent certifications that require phthalate testing. They are (mostly) at a better price point. Unlike Tier 2, these diapers are made with only (petroleum based)plastics, no important certifications and some elements that could potentially lead allergies (lotions, plastics etc)
PARASOL
Phthalate tested: they say no phthalates but do not provide testing
Total Chlorine free wood pulp
No fragrance, no lotions
Components: All petroleum based Polypropylene nonwoven fabric, super absorbent polymer (sodium polyacrylate), polyethylene film, latex-free, hygiene-grade elastic.
Cost per unit: 144 count for $72 = .50 a diaper
Phthalate tested: website says no phthalates, customer service says no phthalates but no testing provided
Chlorine Free: 100% CHLORINE-FREE PROCESSING
No fragrance, no lotions
petroleum derived plastic: all petroleum-based ingredients with one exception – the absorbent core liner contains plant-derived plastic (origin not specified). The core consists of sustainably harvested fluff pulp (no certification) and traditional sodium polyacrylate (SAP).
Cost per unit: 224 count (bundle) of size 2 diapers costs $65.99 = .29 a diaper
Certifications: Nordic Swan Ecolabel
Phthalate tested: website says no phthalates, did not receive a response from customer service, nor proof of testing
Totally chlorine-free fluff pulp
No fragrance, no lotions, no dyes
mostly petroleum derived plastic: Non-woven backsheet (outer side) of polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE). Absorbent of polyacrylate (SAP) and cellulose (TCF fluff). Topsheet of non-woven (PP). Acquisition layer of non-woven (PET/Co-PET). Hook tab fastening system of non-woven (PP/PE). Adhesive made of synthetic rubber—no optical brightener added.
Cost per unit: 2 case bundle (360 diapers) with subscription costs $117.90 = .32 a diaper
Phthalate tested: They say they are phthalate free but do not provide testing
Totally chlorine-free fluff pulp
No fragrance, yes lotions (GMO free aloe vera and Vitamin E plant extracts)
petroleum derived plastic: 63% petroleum derived plastic
Cost per unit: 252 count size 2 diapers cost $69 = .27 a diaper
Phthalate tested: They say they are phthalates free on their website.- but have not provided testing to verify. They do however share test results for many other toxins (formaldehye etc) and so I am hopeful that I will be able to move this brand into one of my tiers- I will continue contacting the company.
Chlorine Free: Elemental Chlorine Free Pulp
No fragrance, lotions
petroleum derived plastic: They are descriped as being free of petrochemcials but there is no mention of alternative materials being used….Seems to be fully (except fluff) made from petroleum derived plastic.
Cost per unit: 32 count for $13 = .40 a diaper
HONEST CO New Clean Conscious Diaper
Phthalate tested: no proof of testing … not clear if they are testing for this. (They say “you can rest easy knowing that The Honest Company’s products are made without health compromising chemicals or compounds, including phthlates. We are vigilant about the latest science regarding chemicals and health to ensure we are being mindfully cautious in how we formulate our products and we carefully select our ingredients accordingly. Check out the ingredient list here (website) “. When I responded that the website does not specify if they test for phthalates the answered “our pampers do not contain phthalates”.
Totally chlorine-free fluff pulp
No fragrance but has vague “Odor Inhibitors Including Citrus Extract & Liquid Chlorophyl”
Low Petroleum derived plastic: 100% plant-based PLA backsheet, Inner Layer (Polyethylene & Polypropylene), Leg/Waist System (Polymer Spandex & Polypropylene), Polyolefin Adhesives in the Seams & Joints,
Cost per unit: a 32-count box of size 2 diapers costs $10.40 (with subscription ) = .32 a diaper
MORE DIAPERS I GET ASKED ABOUT BUT DIDNT MAKE MY TIERS:
These diapers I have been often asked about but they did not make any of the three tiers. The main reason is that they do not mention of being phthalate free at all, nor has their customer service responded to my inquiries. Additionally they are all plastic based.
Seven Generation Sensitive Protection Baby Diapers
Phthalate tested: no mention on website- no response from Customer Service
Chlorine Free: Totally chlorine-free
No fragrance, lotions
petroleum derived plastic: Fully (except fluff) made from petroleum derived plastic (except fluff) . Polypropylene, Polyethylene, Polyolefins, Polyurethane , Adhesives (seams, joints), Polymer Spandex (fastening system, leg elastic), Inks (external printed designs)
Cost per unit:
sources:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6504186/#SD1
https://www.parents.com/parenting/money/saving/save-money-and-build-a-diaper-stockpile/