What Size Diaper Does My Child Wear?
Diaper size goes by your child's weight, not their age. Newborn fits up to about 10 pounds, and every size after that is a weight range. Here is the chart and how to know when to move up.
The chart, by weight
Per the Pampers size chart, the common weight ranges are: Newborn up to 10 lbs, Size 1 is 8 to 14 lbs, Size 2 is 12 to 18 lbs, Size 3 is 16 to 28 lbs, Size 4 is 22 to 37 lbs, Size 5 is 27 lbs and up, Size 6 is 35 lbs and up. The ranges overlap on purpose. When your baby falls between two sizes, size up. A slightly big diaper leaks less than a tight one.
Why weight beats age
Babies grow at their own pace. One three-month-old is still in newborn, another is already in Size 2. Age charts will steer you wrong. Weigh, then match.
Signs it is time to size up
Move up when you see red marks on the waist or thighs, frequent leaks or blowouts, tabs that no longer reach the center or are hard to fasten, a diaper that does not fully cover the bottom or rides low like low-rise jeans, or your child pulling at it in discomfort. A quick test: you should be able to slide two fingers under the waistband.
A too-small diaper is a rash risk
When a diaper is too tight, moisture sits against the skin and rubs, which is a fast track to diaper rash. Fit is not only about leaks. It is about comfort and skin.
A buying note
Do not overstock newborn or Size 1. Babies burn through those bands fastest. During a PCS move, buy the back half of your supply one size up so you are not caught mid-move in a size your baby already outgrew.
A sponsor-backed diaper subscription for military families is on the way. Add your family to the waitlist at thetoagency.co/list.