How to choose the right diaper size

Learn how to choose the right size and spot the signs it’s time to move up to the next one.

Unlike clothes, diaper size isn’t chosen based on months or a child’s height; instead, your child’s weight is the key factor that guides you when buying diapers. If the size isn’t correct, leaks or irritation may occur. That’s why it’s important to know which sizes are available and which one is ideal for your child. At LILLYDOO, we want to help you with this task, so we’ve compiled the following useful information to help you choose the correct size and understand the criteria to consider at the time of purchase.

What are the different diaper sizes?

Most children wear diapers from birth until about three years of age. The duration depends on the child's development and, as you know, it can vary a lot from one child to another. During this period diapers range from size 1 to 8 . Each of these sizes is designed based on the child's weight , which is one of the main criteria to consider when choosing the right size.

Size 1 corresponds to diapers for infants weighing at least 2 kg. Subsequently, the sizes increase up to size 8, suitable for older children weighing more than 17 kg (and up to a maximum of 30 kg). Especially at birth, choosing the right size isn’t always easy; for some children, size 1 or size 2 might fit well. It’s hard to say for sure, as each child has their own physique, and weight guidelines are only recommendations. That’s precisely why we offer the free trial package *, which allows you to purchase size 1 and try it immediately after birth.

To find the weight ranges for each size, please refer to the LILLYDOO diaper size chart below.

Which are the right diapers?

Sometimes, a diaper may not fit your child’s body properly, even if the size matches their weight. It’s important to know that a correctly sized diaper shouldn’t leave marks on the skin, but it also shouldn’t be too loose.

The size of the diaper can vary a lot and, depending on your baby’s needs and weight, it can change very quickly. For this reason, it’s a good idea to always have a pack of diapers in the next size up on hand.

There are different types of diapers on the market: classic diapers, training pants, and more. It all depends greatly on your needs and those of your baby. There isn’t one perfect diaper for every baby of a certain age and weight; instead, there’s the right diaper for you—a personal choice based on many factors and individual preferences, as well as your family’s daily routine.

What is the difference between traditional diapers and training pants?

Compared to traditional diapers, our training pants feature an elastic waistband that ensures a great fit for active children and allows for easy, quick changes.

To change or remove the training pants, simply open them at the sides, then put on a new one by slipping it on like a pair of underwear. They’re very comfortable, especially if your little explorer is already walking. Additionally, our training pants are equipped with a sticky tab that allows you to roll up and secure the used diaper for easy disposal.

The sizes of our training pants are slightly different from those of our classic diapers (
) they go from size 4 to size 8 ), because children typically start using them when they are older. The choice between traditional diapers and training pants depends solely on you and your child.

How do you know when it's time to change diaper size?

There are several signs that may indicate it’s time to move up to a larger size. For example:

  1. The elastic can help you understand whether the size has become too small: it should fasten without digging in and leave no marks on your baby’s belly. Additionally, the waistband shouldn’t be too wide or too tight. A general rule is to leave about two fingers’ width between the waistband and the tummy. This way, you can be sure that, even in case of bloating, your baby has enough room.

  2. If the diaper fits comfortably against the body without being too tight, the size is correct.

  3. If the diaper slips down, you should try a smaller size.

  4. The diaper shouldn’t be too tight or leave marks on the legs.

  5. If leaks are recurring, it might be time to change diaper size, because your little one may need greater absorbency.

What happens if you change size before the scheduled time?

You might have found the perfect diaper size and then, suddenly, overnight, your child’s diaper size no longer fits. Don’t worry: with the LILLYDOO diaper subscription, you can mix and match diaper sizes from 1 to 8 and have them delivered directly to your home. And if your little explorer grows faster than expected, you can return unopened packs of diapers free of charge and receive the next delivery earlier in the new size.