What to look for when choosing nappies for newborns

Last modified on Wednesday 5 May 2021

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These simple tips will help you choose the best nappies for your newborn to keep them fresh, dry and leak-free – perfect for all those delicious baby cuddles.

Whether it’s your first baby – or you're a pro at this parent lark already – choosing nappies can be a confusing experience. There are so many different options out there, offering special features from extra absorbency to wetness indicators.

So what exactly should you be looking for, are the bells and whistles worth it, and do you have to spend a fortune to keep your baby comfortable and dry?

Here are four simple pointers to help you choose the best nappies for your baby.

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Reusable vs disposable

There are two main types of nappy out there, disposable nappies and reusable cloth nappies. Some parents choose to use only disposable nappies, some only reusable, and some a mix of both.

Disposable nappies

Disposable nappies offer many different options for different needs and budgets. They tend to be easier and quicker to use as they don't need to be washed and dried. They're slim and light so easy to transport and can be thrown away if you're out and about, making them great for convenience.

They're often more absorbent so you may not need to change them as much either. Aldi Mamia Ultra Dry Air System™ newborn nappies, for example, are designed to provide up to 2x faster absorption and up to 12-hour leak protection, day and night.

Reusable nappies

Reusable nappies may seem better for the environment at first glance as you don't throw them away, however you should factor in the electricity used to wash and dry them. Reusable nappies should be washed at 60⁰C. Which means most calculations bring reusable and disposable nappies in as equal in terms of environmental damage.

Reusables are expensive to buy initially but, as you're reusing them, they could save you some money in the long run – particularly if you buy secondhand.

How to choose

The best choice of nappies is the one that suits you and your baby. Newborn babies need changing around 10-12 times a day so you want to make sure the nappies you choose fit with your lifestyle and keep your baby fresh and comfy.

Getting the right fit

A well-fitting nappy is really important. Not only will it keep your baby dry and comfortable, but it stops any unwanted leaks, too.

A nappy should sit snugly around your baby’s waist and thighs, but not be so tight that it digs in and causes red marks.

Disposable nappies come in different sizes, starting at 1 for newborns and ranging up to size 7 for older babies and toddlers.

Aldi Mamia Ultra Dry Air System™ nappies in size 1 are designed specifically for newborns. They fit babies who weigh between 2-5 kg / 4-11 lbs. The overlapping fasteners ensure a snug, secure fit and the nappies are super soft and hypoallergenic, so ideal for delicate skin.

If you're buying nappies before your baby's born and aren't sure how much they'll weigh yet, size 1 is the perfect choice.

Saving money on nappies

Babies go through a LOT of nappies so any savings you can make soon add up. These budget-friendly tips will help you cut the cost.

Don't pay for the brand name

Big brand names don't necessarily mean a better product. Aldi's Mamia Ultra Dry Air System™ nappies have won numerous awards for their performance. Absorbent and quick drying, they're regularly tested and accredited by Skin Health Alliance so are suitable for even the most delicate, newborn skin.

Don't buy too many of one size

You can make savings by buying nappies in bulk but don't be tempted to buy too many of one size. You never know when your baby's going to have a growth spurt. You don't want to be left with packs of nappies that no longer fit.

Look at the price per nappy

With so many different pack sizes out there, it can be hard to work out which nappies offer the best value.

The best way to compare price points is to look at the cost per nappy. This should be marked on the pack. For example, each Mamia newborn nappy in a 24 pack costs just 3.2p.

Are special features important?

While some features, like cute patterns, are just for show, most have been designed to improve the performance, comfort and convenience of nappies.

Mamia Ultra Dry Air System™ newborn nappies have a wetness indicator, a clever strip that changes colour when wet, helping you know when your baby might need a nappy change.

The Ultra-Dry Air system™ provides up to 2 x faster absorption. It helps distribute liquid evenly to help nappies stay leak free and keep your baby comfortable.

Dry Fast Technology™ locks away wetness quickly so that your baby stays fresh and dry and the slim fit allows for freedom of movement, so you baby can wriggle away to their heart's content and you don't need to worry about leaks.

Learn more about what to expect from your newborn baby here.