Nappy Sizes Explained: The Ultimate Guide
Gallery
It can be hard to know what your baby needs, especially for your firstborn, and nappies can be one area that feels a little overwhelming to new parents.
In the nappy size guide, age is not the deciding factor. Instead, your baby's weight will determine which nappy sizes to use, moving from Size 0 through to Size 6, and afterwards to nappy pants and pull-ups.
With tips on leg cuffs, weight charts and buying in bulk - follow our size guide to help you find the perfect nappy to keep your little one dry, happy and healthy.
The Ultimate Size Guide:
Although different brands vary slightly, most nappy size guides are worked out on the following baby weight chart:
Size 0 - weight 1 - 2.5 kg / 2 - 5 lbs
Size 1 - weight 2 - 5 kg / 5 - 11 lbs
Size 2 - weight 3 - 6 kg / 7 - 14 lbs
Size 3 - weight 4 - 9 kg / 8 - 20 lbs
Size 4 - weight 7 - 18 kg / 15 - 40 lbs
Size 5 - weight 11 - 25 kg / 24 - 55 lbs
Size 6 - weight 16 kg + / 35 lbs +
The Pampers Nappy Guide:
The Pampers nappy size guide varies slightly - 'Size N' is for babies under 10 lbs, which includes babies in the Size 0 and Size 1 category in the above chart.
After that, the Pampers size guide follows the same pattern, differing by around 4 - 5 lbs for each of their nappies sizes, until Size 6, which is also for babies that weigh 16 kgs + /35 lbs +.
The guide from Pampers has a cross-over period, where the weight ranges overlap - at this stage, parents can decide to stay at the same size or move up to the next, depending on their baby.
While a long, slim baby is probably better suited to the smaller size, a rounder baby may be able to move up.
Size N - weight less than 4.5 kg / 10 lbs
Size 1 - weight 3.5 - 6.5 kg / 8 - 14 lbs
Size 2 - weight 5.5 - 8 kg / 12 -18 lbs
Size 3 - weight 7 - 12.5 kg / 16 - 28 lbs
Size 4 - weight 10 - 16 kg / 22 -35 lbs
Size 5 - weight 12 - 16 kg / 27 - 35 lbs
Size 6 - weight 16 kg + / 35 lbs +
When Is The Right Time To Move Up A Size?
If the tapes that you use to secure the nappy are stretched, then you should move on the next size up.
The same goes if the tapes no longer reach the centre of the waistband. Marks on your baby's legs also indicate that a nappy is too small, so you may need to move on to a larger size.
Another sign of a nappy that is too small is a frequent nappy rash - as the nappy is too tight to be able to effectively keep moisture away from the baby's skin.
The nappy size guide Pampers have published also notes how long a baby wears each size nappy before moving on to the next.
Size 0 (also called Size N) is typically worn for only 1 month.
Size 1 is worn for 2.5 months.
Size 2 is worn for 2.5 months.
Size 3 is worn for around 10 months.
Size 4 is worn for around 10 months.
Size 5 is worn for around 14 months.
Size 6 is worn for around 14 months.
Nappies for Premature Babies
It is easier than ever to find a nappy that is designed for premature or low-birth-weight babies. Plenty of brands now offer 'Preemie' nappies, or otherwise 'Size 0' may be small enough to keep baby dry and happy.
How To Make Nappies More Leak-Free?
Keeping baby dry is essential for a happy baby, and a nappy that fits properly is naturally more effective at keeping leaks at bay. Read our checklist to ensure a leak-free nappy:
A snug waistband is key, though it should never feel tight or constricting around your baby's tummy. You should be able to fit two fingers under the waistband
You should not see red marks or indentations when you take the nappy off. This indicated that it is too tight.
The waistband should sit just below the belly button.
Make sure that you secure the waist tapes symmetrically, so that the nappy sits evenly on both sides.
Stretch the leg cuffs neatly around the baby's thighs by running two fingers under the cuff once the nappy is on.
Using the right size nappy will also ensure fewer leaks, as nappies that are too big will have gaps and nappies that are too small will not be absorbent enough.
Look for a nappy that has 'Plus' or a '+' sign, as these are designed to be more absorbent and are a good choice for night time.
What To Look For When You're Buying A Nappy
-Before the birth of your baby, it can be a good idea to buy two packs of nappies: one for newborns and one for the next size up.
-Do not open nappies until you need to use them, and keep the receipt as many shops will allow you to swap for a different size.
-It is more cost-effective to buy large packs of nappies, but it can be a good idea to swap to smaller packs when your baby is getting near to needing the next size up.
-Nappies for premature and newborn babies have an extra design feature; a U-shape cut from the front that doesn't interfere with the umbilical cord.
-Some parents find that they can use cheaper nappies during the day, but most agree that it is worth using a higher quality, super absorbent nappy overnight.
-Experiment with different brands, as one may work much better for you than the others.
-Size 0 - Size 4 nappies tend to focus on absorbency and dryness, whilst nappies for older, more active babies offer designs that are called 'active fit' or 'active stretch'. After that, your little one will wear nappy pants, pull-up and easy-up nappies.
We Want Your Photos!
More for You
See All
Bachelor of Arts specializing in Fine Art
Rosanna RobertsonBachelor of Arts specializing in Fine Art
Rosanna is a creative and enthusiastic individual who enjoys finding ways to entertain kids through art and crafts, games, and cooking. With a Bachelor's degree in Fine Art from the Central Saint Martins College of Art & Design, she brings a unique perspective to her projects, making them both colorful and educational. She is always full of ideas for homemade cards, handcrafted gifts, toys, and decorations that are perfect for children of all ages.
Disclaimer
1) Kidadl is independent and to make our service free to you the reader we are supported by advertising. We hope you love our recommendations for products and services! What we suggest is selected independently by the Kidadl team. If you purchase using the Buy Now button we may earn a small commission. This does not influence our choices. Prices are correct and items are available at the time the article was published but we cannot guarantee that on the time of reading. Please note that Kidadl is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. We also link to other websites, but are not responsible for their content.
2) At Kidadl, we strive to recommend the very best activities and events. We will always aim to give you accurate information at the date of publication - however, information does change, so it’s important you do your own research, double-check and make the decision that is right for your family. We recognise that not all activities and ideas are appropriate for all children and families or in all circumstances. Our recommended activities are based on age but these are a guide. We recommend that these ideas are used as inspiration, that ideas are undertaken with appropriate adult supervision, and that each adult uses their own discretion and knowledge of their children to consider the safety and suitability. Kidadl cannot accept liability for the execution of these ideas, and parental supervision is advised at all times, as safety is paramount. Anyone using the information provided by Kidadl does so at their own risk and we can not accept liability if things go wrong.
3) Because we are an educational resource, we have quotes and facts about a range of historical and modern figures. We do not endorse the actions of or rhetoric of all the people included in these collections, but we think they are important for growing minds to learn about under the guidance of parents or guardians.