How to Tell the Difference Between Pampers Diaper Types

Babies go through over 2,000 diaper changes in the first year. And if you stand in the diaper aisle for long enough, it might seem like you could choose a different diaper for each of those changes. There are Swaddlers and Pure and Overnights. How are you supposed to know which one your baby needs in this moment?

We’ve partnered with Pampers to clear up some of that confusion. Next time you’re staring down a wall of boxes (virtually or IRL), use this glossary to help you figure out which diaper to register for or buy next. But first, a couple of quick tips:

1. Try before you buy. Before you hit your local Target and stock up on a year’s worth of diapers, test a few small packs to see which style works best for you and your baby.
2. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Babies grow quickly. But that doesn’t mean you have to change what diaper style you’re using just because your little one is suddenly mobile or sleeping through the night. If you find something you like, and it’s working…keep on keepin’ on and wait to make a switch until things actually go awry (if they ever do).
3. Sign up for perks. Once you do find a diaper brand you like, sign up for the perks (like Pampers Club). You’re going to be buying a lot of diapers in those first few years, and can usually cash in your rewards for diaper discounts or other non-diaper benefits like gift cards.

Pampers Diapers 101

Pampers Swaddlers

One of the most popular diaper choices for newborn babies, Pampers Swaddlers are super soft and designed with a special liner that wicks wetness away from skin. And since diaper changes can be…unpredictable in those early days, leak guard barriers along the leg cuff help protect where poopsplosions are most likely to happen. Swaddlers also come with a wetness indicator that lets you know when baby’s diaper is wet and have a special cutout for your baby’s umbilical cord (through size 2).

Pampers Swaddlers Disposable Diapers - Newborn, 84 Count

$28.22

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Amazon

$

28.22

Walmart

$

28.22

Target

$

28.49

Pampers Swaddlers Overnights

Your baby may be fine overnight with their regular diaper, but if you notice frequent leaks, you may want to switch to an overnight diaper. Designed to keep baby’s skin dry and healthy, Swaddlers Overnights keep wetness away from skin for up to 12 hours. They’re designed with Soft Flexi-Sides that provide a soft cushiony stretch for a secure and comfortable fit.

Pampers Swaddlers Overnights

$42.99

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Target

$

42.99

Pampers Baby Dry

If daytime leaks are your struggle, then you may need to up your baby’s diaper game to one that’s even more absorbent—which is where Baby Dry comes into play. They’re designed to provide 12 hours of wetness protection (which means they can hold a lot of pee) and have special leak barriers to prevent wetness (and other things) from escaping.

Pampers Baby Dry

$9.59

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Target

$

9.59

Pampers Pure Protection

For babies with more sensitive skin (or if you just want a diaper with fewer ingredients), Pampers Pure diapers are hypoallergenic and free of elemental chlorine, fragrance, parabens, and natural rubber latex. They’re also made with a cotton outer cover and a shea butter-enhanced liner to help protect your baby’s skin.

Pampers Pure Protection Disposable Diapers, Super Pack - Newborn, 76 Count

$28.22

Add to Babylist

Buy

Amazon

$

28.22

Walmart

$

28.22

Target

$

28.49

Pampers Cruisers

Cruisers with Stay-Put fit are designed for the most active babies, which is why you won’t find them in newborn sizes (they start Size 3). They are made with soft, stretchy sides that provide a comfy and secure fit so your baby has the freedom to move, while extra leak barriers around the legs protect against blowouts.

Pampers Cruisers

$42.99

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Target

$

42.99

Pampers Cruisers 360

Cruisers 360 are very similar to Cruisers diapers, with one key difference: unlike regular taped diapers, these diapers have a special elastic waistband that goes on almost like underwear. No tabs = easy on and off, and they’re basically toddler-proof. And with no gap at the back of your diaper, you’re less likely to have those dreaded up-the-back blowouts that can sometimes happen. When baby’s diaper needs to be changed, you just tear the sides and roll the diaper up.

Pampers Cruisers 360

$27.49

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Buy

Target

$

27.49

So next time you’re shopping, use this cheat sheet to help you figure out which package of diapers to reach for.

Compare Pampers Diapers

*Natural Rubber

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