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Best nappies for babies and toddlers: top disposable nappies for comfort and absorbency
Nappies are a huge part of life as a parent (whether we like it or not!), but how do you know which ones are right for you and your baby? We’ve done the research so you don't have to. Here are the best nappies buy, as tried and tested by parents.
By Mumsnet HQ | Last updated Apr 14, 2023
Prices and availability checked and updated by MNHQ on 3 April, 2023.
Ah, the nappy change. Certainly not the most glamorous part of parenthood, but certainly one of the most frequent.
With the average baby going through over 5,000 disposable nappies by the time they are two years old, according to Which?, it's no wonder that finding reliable, absorbent and affordable nappies is high on most parents' agendas.
And while reusable nappies are becoming ever more popular, parents in their droves are still opting for disposables, turning to supermarkets and eco-friendly brands that fit their needs and lifestyles.
Of course, every baby is different when it comes to nappy needs: that’s in size, skin sensitivity, activeness and, well, explosions. What works for some won’t work for others - our Mumsnetters’ real, shared experiences are testament to that.
While we can't prevent the odd poonami, we can offer recommendations on the best nappies our users say they wouldn't leave the house without.
Mumsnetters know that not all baby products are created equal. That's why we obsessively research all sorts of products, from the best changing bags to the best breast pumps and best baby bottles. It's one way we can help make parents' lives that little bit easier.
How we chose our recommendations
With that in mind, we've done extensive nappy research so you don't have to. Taking authentic, honest recommendations from parents - combined with expert opinion - we've compiled our list of the 10 best nappies out there right now.
- We consulted the Mumsnet forums to get advice from families who've vetted hundreds of nappies: that’s real parents who have tried and tested these nappies on their own babies and toddlers, rating them on everything from value to absorbency.
- We utilised results from our very own Mumsnet Rated testing, where each product is tested by at least 150 parents from the Mumsnet community.
- We considered the most popular brands among households up and down the country, only shortlisting nappies with overwhelming positive reviews.
- We read other expert reviews and recommendations from trusted online publications to see which nappies were popular and why.
- We then weighed all of this up against the nappies’ costs and features to bring you a list that we hope will inspire your choices. N.B We've linked to a variety of nappy sizes in our round-up
Whether you have a baby with sensitive skin, you’re searching for something more eco-friendly or you're on a tight budget, we hope this list helps you find just what you and your baby need.
Here are 10 best nappies to buy this year.
Best disposable nappies at a glance
- Best overall nappies: Aldi Mamia Ultra-Dry Nappies
- Best budget nappies: Sainsbury’s Little Ones Nappies
- Best nighttime nappies: Pampers Active Fit Nappies
- Best pull-up nappies: ASDA Little Angels Nappy Pants
- Best eco nappies: Eco By Naty Nappies
- Best nappies for sensitive skin: Boots Little Stories Bamboo Nappies
- Best branded nappies: Mum & You Nappychat Eco Nappies
- Best swim nappies: TotsBots Reusable Baby Swim Nappy
- Most absorbent nappies: Kit & Kin Hypoallergenic Eco Nappies
- Best supermarket nappies: Tesco’s Fred & Flo Ultra Dry Nappies
1. Best overall nappies: Aldi Mamia Ultra-Dry Nappies
RRP: £2.35 | Buy now from Aldi
Key specs
Price per nappy: 4p | Sizes 1-7 | Nappies in a pack: 60
What we love
- Excellent value for money
- Special system for absorbency
- Dermatologically accredited
What to know
- Some Mumsnetters say Aldi Mamia are just as good as branded nappies but at a fraction of the cost
What Mumsnet users say
"Aldi nappies are great. We used the Premium ones for months with no issues" - recommended by Mumsnet user, 20viona
"Aldi are the best, hands down. Pampers at night sometimes. But have saved a small fortune using Aldi nappies" - recommended by Mumsnet user, Sereni5
"We've used Aldi's Mamia nappies from day one and never had a problem. DD is 14 months old now. Also me and DH have both worked in nurseries and had experience of every nappy going. We both agreed Mamia were the best for us" - recommended by Mumsnet user, meganm94
Our verdict
Aldi’s Mamia nappies are so popular among parents that we're recommending them as the top disposable nappies to buy as well as the best value nappies and best nappies for newborns.
With loads of options to choose from within the range - including nappy pants, a premium range with ‘dry fast’ technology and sizes from newborn right up to seven - this is a nappy that will suit all families, no matter what nappy-wearing stage your baby is at.
The Newborn Premium Dry Fast is super stretchy with a wetness indicator (a smart colour-changing strip to make it clear when your baby needs changing), while the Nappy Pants' ultra-dry air system boasts even liquid distribution, fast absorption and they’re dermatologically accredited.
Read next: The best changing mats to buy, as recommended by parents
2. Best budget nappies: Sainsbury’s Little Ones Nappies
RRP: £2.99 | Buy now from Sainsbury’s
Key specs
Price per nappy: 5p | Size 1-6+ | Nappies in a pack: 56
What we love
- Value for money
- Range from soft newborn nappies to pants
- Dry Fit range for great absorption
What to know
- Packs can be found for as cheap as 92p, but this depends on product and size
What Mumsnet users say
"Sainsbury’s own brand is great. We were given some Pampers nappies but I didn’t like them as much as the supermarket-own brands we’d been using, so I definitely think you can save money without losing quality" - recommended by Mumsnet user, Odile13
"First size, I used Pampers. After that, I used Sainsbury’s. They are as good as Pampers and less price. I found the Aldi ones too bulky but Sainsbury’s is a lot thinner" - recommended by Mumsnet user, Soubriquet
Our verdict
If you’re looking for a budget nappy, try Sainsbury’s Little Ones which start at a generous 5p per nappy. Mumsnetters on our forums have generally reported good results.
The Little Ones range offers lots of choice, including Newborn, which are super soft with a 3D liner for great absorption, a wetness indicator and a stretchy waistband to keep your little one comfortable.
Dry Fit has efficient absorbency: up to 12 hours' protection. Then there are the nappy pants to pull up and tear off, with elasticated leg cuffs for leakage protection. All are well-priced.
Read next: The best nappy bins and buckets
3. Best nighttime nappies: Pampers Active Fit Nappies
RRP: £12 | Buy now from Boots
Key specs
Price per nappy: 38p | Sizes 3-6 | Nappies in a pack: 32
What we love
- Long-lasting absorbency
- Stretchability and strong-holding tape for active babies
- Regular offers and bulk buys
What to know
- More expensive than supermarket brands
What Mumsnet users say
‘The only time we opted for Pampers was for overnight when it seemed wet nappies was the only reason for waking. [They] seem as though they absorb more" - recommended by Mumsnet user, HayB
"My main discovery was nappy pants for overnight - they leak less than regular nappies as the tops are elasticated. As they're on for 10 to 12 hours too (hopefully!). We splashed out on Pampers nappy pants. So I'd recommend Aldi/Lidl nappies during the day and Pampers nappy pants at night" - recommended by Mumsnet user, Ajl46
"Once baby can walk, I've found the branded nappies are better. I've preferred Pampers (Baby Dry are cheaper and Active Fit are expensive but amazing)" - recommended by Mumsnet user, Dyra
Our verdict
We reckon everyone’s heard of Pampers nappies and it’s clear why. Parents offer high praise - particularly for the Pampers Active Fit. Many Mumsnetters have been impressed by the lack of leakage, especially overnight. The nappies have a quick dry core that lasts for up to 12 hours. Read: hopefully no night changes for you!
Thanks to their secure, strong holding tape and soft, stretchable wings, they’re great for any little wrigglers as they stay comfortable and in place throughout the night. Pampers Active Fit has no shortage of impressive details to make your life easier, including a wetness indicator so you know when a change is due.
Read next: The best potties to buy, as recommended by Mumsnetters
4. Best pull-up nappies: ASDA Little Angels Nappy Pants
RRP: £1.75 | Buy now from ASDA
Key specs
Price per nappy: 4p | Size 1-7 | Nappies in a pack: 44
What we love
- Protect against leaks with quick dry technology
- Choice between Newborn, Comfort & Protect and nappy pants
- Dermatologically accredited
What to know
- Some Mumsnetters say the fit isn’t as good as it used to be
What Mumsnet users say
"I used Sainsbury’s own brand for DS. I'd use them now for DD but we don't have one nearby. I use ASDA's Little Angel brand now and they're just as good. I've never had any leaks with either of them and they absorb well too" - recommended by Mumsnet user, Lira91
"Slim baby here and we have found ASDA Little Angels to be fab, fit well and never leak. He’s nine months old now and I’m on size 4 and just as happy as I was when he started on size 1" - recommended by Mumsnet user, Catherine1210
"I've always used ASDA’s Little Angels. If you go for the plus size then they're more absorbent. I've never had any issues with leaks at all. I've tried others and have had issues with leaks so always go back to these" - recommended by Mumsnet user, tokyotea
Our verdict
ASDA’s Little Angels range offers three options: Newborn, Comfort & Protect and Comfort & Protect nappy pants. So if your little one takes to them, they can grow up with them! All of the nappies are soft and breathable and they’re accredited by the Skin Health Alliance, so your little angels will hopefully be comfortable from the start.
You can forget about leaks too. Large tabs, elasticated (but soft) leg cuffs and quick dry technology mean they should stay on and stay dry; while moisture is absorbed quickly and wetness is evenly distributed, keeping a smile on their faces. A
All of that for a decent price too - from just 4p per nappy, increasing depending on product and size. Some Mumsnetters say the fit isn’t as good as it used to be but many still rave about the quality.
5. Best eco nappies: Eco By Naty Nappies
RRP: £11.50 | Buy now from Boots
Key specs
Price per nappy: 23p | Sizes 1-6 | Nappies in a pack: 50
What we love
- Made from plant-based materials and FSC-certified wool pulp
- Designed to minimise risk of allergy and nappy rash
- Free of chlorine, latex, dyes, perfumes and more
What to know
- More expensive than most other nappies on our list
What Mumsnet users say
"I've tried a few and always go back to Eco By Naty, although they're a lot more expensive" - recommended by Mumsnet user, trufflepuff22
"If you want to go for a biodegradable option, Eco By Naty is great! But make sure you get the right size!" - recommended by Mumsnet user, gingerglitter4ever
Our verdict
Worried about the environmental impact of disposable nappies? Or do you have a child with sensitive skin or a skin condition? Award-winning Eco By Naty nappies are a great option to tackle both, though they aren’t quite as popular on our forums as other nappies on this list. Handily, there is a pants option too.
They’re made up of plant-based materials with a core mostly made from FSC-certified wool pulp, and designed to minimise the risk of allergy and nappy rash. Eco by Naty nappies are free of chlorine, latex, dyes, perfumes and more, so you can say goodbye to irritation.
Read next: The best nappy rash cream for babies and toddlers
6. Best nappies for sensitive skin: Boots Little Stories Bamboo Nappies
RRP: £5.50 | Buy now from Boots
Key specs
Price per nappy: 23p | Size 1-4 | Nappies in a pack: 24
What we love
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Flexible cuffs and waistband
- Recyclable packaging
What to know
- Some reviewers say the nappies are a little stiff when they first come out of the pack
What Mumsnet users say
"I use Boots’ own brand, they seem cheaper than a lot of other ones and we’ve never had any issues with leaks. I buy them online along with the Boots’ own baby wipes" - recommended by Mumsnet user, EllaBlaire
"We used the size 1 and 2 of the Boots’ own, but weren't so keen on the size 3 as they don't have a wetness indicator and didn't feel quite as padded as the smaller sized ones. We switched over to Boots’ Little Stories Bamboo nappies and also really like them" - recommended by Mumsnet user, Winglessvulture
Our verdict
If your baby has sensitive skin, Boots' Little Stories Bamboo nappies could be what you need. They’re made using bamboo fibres and have flexible cuffs and waistband so your little one can wriggle away without irritation. Added bonus: the nappies contain 40% plant based materials and the packaging is 100% recyclable (check your local facilities).
Boots also has other types of nappies, including Super Dry (if you’re looking for leakproof) and swim nappies - all at reasonable prices.
7. Best branded nappies: Mum & You Nappychat Eco Nappies
RRP: £10.99 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Price per nappy: 26p | Size 2-5 | Nappies in a pack: 42
What we love
- Made with sustainable wood pulp
- Free from chemicals, perfume, lotion and latex
- Fun design to inspire play at changing time
What to know
- More expensive than other nappies on our list
What Mumsnet users say
"We also use Mum & You nappies, which come up slightly bigger and have been great for my daughter. No leaks and they are supposed to be biodegradable. They are more expensive than supermarket brands but I buy a monthly subscription so much cheaper than buying the odd pack and they are delivered. No chemicals either" - recommended by Mumsnet user, Quail15
"If you have the money, the nicest by far are Mum & You (M&Y). They are so soft and lovely" - recommended by Mumsnet user, Albgo
Our verdict
These Mumsnet Rated nappies get a seal of approval from Mumsnet users, meaning they’ve been tried and tested by real parents, with more than 80% of testers saying they would recommend Mum & You nappies to family and friends.
They’re a great eco option as they’re made with sustainable wood pulp and the packaging is 100% recyclable. Plus, they’re free-from added chemicals, perfume, lotion and latex, and are dermatologically tested: great for sensitive skin.
The design of these nappies is just the cherry on top. Patterns of Nappychat characters inspire story-telling at change time, encouraging bonding between you and your baby, as well as supporting their speech development.
If these nappies work for you, you can subscribe to buy regularly, which means a substantial saving per month.
8. Best swim nappies: TotsBots Reusable Baby Swim Nappy
RRP: £10.99 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Price per nappy: £10.99 | Sizes: 1-2 | Pack size: 1
What we love
- Better for the environment as reusable and outer exterior fabric is made from 100% recycled plastic waste
- Quick dry after wash
- Fasten like a disposable to prevent mess
What to know
- There’s a higher initial cost
- Have to clean afterwards, rather than throw away (tick for the environment though!)
What Mumsnet users say
"We use a TotsBots nappy over a pair of Bambino Mio swim pants. Not sure if the double layer is necessary but it gives me peace of mind and has never leaked!" - recommended by Mumsnet user, Littlehouseinthebigcity
"TotsBots are the nappy - no need for another. Just add a fleece liner in if you have or use as they are. You can add swimming costume/UV suit over the top if you like" - recommended by Mumsnet user, Caspianberg
Our verdict
Go reusable for your swim nappy and not only will you help the environment, you’ll have less stuff to carry about with you on swimming trips or holidays as this one product is all you’ll need for your baby or toddler. You’ll even save some money in the long run, as you can use it again and again after washing (they’re fast drying too!) which will make the initial cost more than worth it.
These bright, cute little numbers are soft and stretchy to feel good on your baby and they fasten on and off like your usual disposable so you needn’t worry about leaks, spillages or smears.
9. Most absorbent nappies: Kit & Kin Hypoallergenic Eco Nappies
RRP: £34 (4 packs) | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Price per nappy: 22p | Sizes 1-6 | Nappies in a pack: 40
What we love
- Flash drying layer
- Hypoallergenic
- Vegan, cruelty-free and made using sustainable materials
What to know
- More expensive than others
- Some reviewers say the sizing is a little off
What Mumsnet users say
"If you're interested in more eco-friendly options but want to stick with disposables (and for newborn, I cannot imagine doing reusables!) then Kit & Kin nappies are fabulous. They are probably a bit more expensive than supermarket own brand, but we've never had a leak and our little one loves the animal prints. You can do an online subscription so they turn up regularly, which is amazing as it's one less thing to remember. They do wipes and nappy sacks too, all biodegradable, so I guess three less things to remember!" - recommended by Mumsnet user, Shortmamashortcycles
"Kit and Kin. They are excellent, no leaks and so soft" - recommended by Mumsnet user, Grognonne
Our verdict
Award-winning Kit & Kin Eco Nappies have plenty of useful and reassuring qualities including their great absorbency which our Mumsnet users rate. They protect from leaks for up to 12 hours with channel technology that evenly distributes liquid, and they have a flash dry layer to absorb and lock away moisture, keeping bums nice and dry. They’re hypoallergenic too, so great for sensitive skin.
Of course, we also love the eco-friendly qualities - vegan and cruelty-free - and Kit & Kin uses sustainable materials and protects an acre of rainforest for every 10 subscriptions, which make these a great disposable option (if you’re not ready for the leap of reusables).
Thought nappies couldn’t be cute? Check out Kit & Kin's adorable animal designs which will brighten changing times. Thank you, Emma Bunton (co-founder and, of course, legendary Spice Girl)!
10. Best supermarket nappies: Tesco’s Fred & Flo Ultra Dry Nappies
RRP: £2.99 | Buy now from Tesco
Key specs
Price per nappy: 5p | Sizes 3-7 | Nappies in a pack: 56
What we love
- The price, starting at 5p per nappy
- Dermatologically tested
- Soft, slim and secure
What to know
- Other Tesco nappy products available but they are more expensive
What Mumsnet users say
"Tesco Fred & Flo nappy pants here. Never had a leak of wee or poo even over long nights of constant breastfeeding! Great once they’re moving because the sides are stretchy and soft" - recommended by Mumsnet user, BuffaloCauliflower
"I've always used the Fred & Flo and bought the plus ones. So 6+ for example, and they've always been fab" - recommended by Mumsnet user, purpledino5
Our verdict
Boasting an Aldi Price Match, starting from 5p per nappy, Tesco's Fred & Flo is an excellent supermarket nappy option that our Mumsnetters rate (despite some online reviewers reporting leaks).
Your baby should be secure and comfy, no matter how much of a wriggler they are, thanks to the nappies’ ‘new improved softness,’ slim feel, secure fastening and dermatologically tested stamp. They also have Rapid Dry Technology in the form of absorbing channels that lock away wee to maintain dryness and up to 12 hours of absorbency protection.
Fred & Flo comes in sizes 3 to 7, including plus size options, newborn and Easy Fit Pants. Tesco’s Rascal & Friends range is also recommended by some Mumsnetters on our forums, but these nappies costs a little more.
How to choose the best nappies for your baby
Every baby is different so while the nappies on our list came recommended by real parents on our Mumsnet forums, they won’t suit everyone. Often, it’s best to try and test a few and see what works for you.
Think about what you need most - whether that be something low cost, a nappy for sensitive skin or a high-absorption nappy for heavy-wetters - and see which of our recommended products might suit.
Always consider:
- Size and fit
Nappies come in sizes zero to six, fitting babies and toddlers of all weights between 1 kg and 16+kg. Nappies for younger babies often prioritise keeping them dry. As your baby starts to crawl and toddle, nappies are often labelled as 'active' and aim to prevent any leaks.
For a nappy to fit correctly, there should be no leaks around the waist or through the leg holes. As your baby move up the sizes and becomes more, look for elasticated waistbands, strong tabs that don't come loose and secure leg cuffs.
Manufacturer sizing will vary, however, so if you don't get on well with a particular nappy brand and need a snugger fit, then do try another.
- Absorbency
Most disposable nappies are made out of three layers - an outer, a core and a top layer. The core features a water-absorbent polymer that draws moisture away from the skin and into the nappy, which helps to prevent nappy rash. Other absorbency features to look out for, particularly as your baby gets older and more active, are flash dry layers to lock away moisture, and materials like bamboo and wood pulp for extra dryness.
- Environmental impact
While more convenient than reusable nappies, disposable nappies are single-use, made of plastic and will ultimately end up in landfill. This means that they're less environmentally-friendly than their cloth counterparts, even if you are choosing eco options which tend to be partly made out of biodegradable materials.
- Wetness indicators
Wetness indicators, i.e. a yellow line down the front of the nappy, are handy as they will let you know if your baby's nappy needs changing. For babies with particularly sensitive skin, regular changing will help to prevent nappy rash.
Types of nappy
- Newborn: these usually have a U-shaped cut-out to avoid irritating or covering the umbilical cord.
- Active: these are stretchier nappies, great for preventing leaks and spillages when your baby starts to move around on their own.
- Plus: extra absorbent and designed to withstand more moisture, therefore a good choice for overnight. Plus nappies are labelled with a + sign on the packaging.
- Swim: both reusable and disposable options are a swimming must for any baby or child who hasn’t been potty trained.
How much do nappies cost?
Nappies vary wildly when it comes to cost, with supermarket brands typically sitting at the lower end of the price range and eco and brands options sitting at the top.
However, it's always worth looking out for multi-buy offers, as well as bulk buy deals and subscription options, especially for premium branded and more eco-friendly nappies.
To help you wade through the various price points, here's a list of the nappy brands we feature, with minimum cost per nappy (all sizes included) laid out from lowest to highest. N.B Prices correct at time of writing.
- Aldi: From 4p per nappy
- ASDA: From 4p per nappy
- Sainsbury's: From 5p per nappy
- Tesco: From 5p per nappy
- Boots: From 9p per nappy
- Pampers: From 16p per nappy
- Kit & Kin: From 22p per nappy
- Eco By Naty: From 23p per nappy
- Mum & You: From 24p per nappy
- TotsBots: From £10.99 per nappy (RRP)
What size nappies do I need?
Nappies generally come in sizes 0 to 6, fitting babies and toddlers of weights between 1kg and 16+kg. Nappies for younger babies often prioritise keeping your baby dry. As your baby starts to crawl and toddle, nappies are often labelled as ‘active’ and aim to prevent any leaks.
When a nappy fits correctly, there should not be any leaks around the waist or through the leg holes. Manufacturer sizing will vary, however, so if a particular nappy brand isn’t working for you and you need a snugger fit, try a different one.
How many disposable nappies does a baby use?
Every child is different so you’ll find your own groove. However, expect an average of 70 nappies per week for a newborn baby, 50 to 70 for a child wearing size 1 nappies, 35 to 50 for size 2 and approximately 35 for size 3. Recycling charity Wrap estimates that by the time a baby is potty trained, they could have used a total of 4,000 to 6,000 disposable nappies.
What are the best nappies to buy?
As we say, each baby will have different needs and preferences so it might be useful to try a few out and see which suits. We hope our list is a helpful starting point for you.
We think Aldi’s Mamia Ultra-Dry nappies are the best nappies to buy right now. They offer great value for money, feature a range of choices to suit different households and receive overwhelmingly high praise from parents across the UK.
Why you should trust us
We work hard to provide unbiased, independent advice you can trust with help of parents and experts. We do sometimes earn revenue through affiliate (click-to-buy) links in our articles, however we never allow this to influence our coverage.