From a parent's point of view, there are few things more inconvenient than a leaky diaper. For babies and toddlers, a poorly fitting diaper is more than mere inconvenience; it can lead to chafing, irritation and diaper rash. Methods for securing diapers are a little different depending on what type of diaper you use. Regardless of the type, a diaper should fit snugly without binding, which can injure a child.
Disposable
Disposable diapers are one piece diapers with an absorbent layer on the inside and a waterproof outer layer. They are sometimes secured with tape that is attached to the diapers. The tape can't be refastened, so you may want to look for brands that fasten with Velcro. You should be able to insert two fingers between the top of the waistband and the belly when you're done for a snug fit that isn't too loose. Disposable diapers come packaged according to a child's weight. You may see diapers additionally labeled from small through extra-large, but use weight guidelines for a proper fit.
Cloth
Cloth diapers come in a variety of soft, natural materials but the most common is cotton. The most basic cloth diapers are attached with large diaper pins that are similar to safety pins. Use care when attaching the pins to avoid pricking your baby. A separate, plastic outer pant is put on over cloth diapers to prevent leaking. Wrap-style diapers don't use pins and are safer and easier to use. A cloth diaper is laid inside the wrap cover and the whole is secured with Velcro tabs. Look for wrap covers with gentle elastic around the legs that won't impede your baby's movements.
All-In-One Cloth
All-in-one cloth diapers are similar to disposable diapers, but made for washing and reuse. An absorbent cloth layer is permanently fastened to a non-permeable outer layer. The diapers often fasten with snaps. There will often be more than one row of snaps for an adjustable fit so you can use the same set of diapers as your baby grows. Make sure diapers sit below the belly button of newborns so healing is not compromised.
Swim Diapers
Swim diapers are available as both disposable and reusable and are meant to stop leaks while babies and toddlers are in pools or similar environments. The primary problem: they aren't entirely leakproof no matter how snugly they seem to fit. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that you keep your child away from public swimming areas if he has diarrhea or is sick. When you use swim diapers, change your baby as often as every half hour to minimize risk of contamination.
