Are you planning to order diapers in bulk to prepare for your baby but you’re not sure which one to get more of – newborn or size 1 diapers?
In this article, we’ll delve into the details of newborn vs. size 1 diapers, helping you understand their differences, which makes more sense to get more of, what you should take note of, and such.
Let’s get on with it.
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List of Contents
Which Should You Get First: Newborn or Size 1 Diapers?
If you want to stock up on diapers or you want some for your baby registry, it’s always safer to get more Size 1 diapers as your baby will eventually grow into it.
You can also include one month’s worth of newborn diapers for your Amazon diaper fund.
Related Article: How Many Diapers Do I Need? (And How To Save on Diapers!)
If your baby is a preemie, then getting 1-2 packs of newborn or better yet, preemie diapers, would make more sense.
But take note that you must always base the diapers on your baby’s weight – not their age.
Newborn diapers are specially designed for smaller babies, typically weighing up to 10 lbs.
On the other hand, Size 1 diapers are made for babies in the 8-14 lbs range.
So if your newborn weighs less than 8 lbs, start with newborn size diapers for a more comfortable fit.
If you have a large baby that’s between 8-14 lbs, then start with Size 1 diapers.
Newborn vs Size 1 Diaper: Differences
The primary difference between newborn and size 1 diapers lies in their size and fit.
Newborn diapers are smaller and specifically tailored to accommodate the needs of a well, a newborn, typically weighing under 10 lbs.
Some will have an umbilical cord cutout (such as Huggies Little Snugglers and Pampers Swaddlers), which prevents irritation on your baby’s umbilical cord.
Size 1 diapers, on the other hand, are made for babies typically weighing between 8-14 lbs.
Most don’t have an umbilical cord cut out.
So if your newborn is in the Size 1 weight range, you might need to fold the top of their diapers inward, so it doesn’t cover and irritate their umbilical cord.
When to Switch From Newborn to Size 1 Diapers
Most standard size 1 diapers are designed to fit babies in the 8-14 lbs range, so once your little one approaches that limit, it might be a good time to make a switch.
You can also check out other signs on when to size up diapers such as:
- You notice red marks on your baby’s tummy or thighs every diaper change.
- You can’t comfortably fit 2 fingers under the waistband of your baby’s fastened diaper.
- You can’t make the fastening tapes reach the center of the waistband.
- Your baby’s cute bottom isn’t being fully covered by the diaper.
- Your baby keeps getting diaper leakages and diaper blowouts.
- You see your baby tugging and pulling at their diaper, looking very uncomfortable wearing it.
Diaper Size Chart
To make your decision-making process easier, here’s a handy diaper size chart:
How to Weigh Your Baby
A quick visit to the pediatrician’s office can provide an accurate measurement of your baby’s weight.
But if that’s inconvenient, you can do it at home with a standard bathroom scale.
Here’s how you weigh your baby at home:
- Remove their clothes and diaper first then carry them and step on the scale.
- Record the weight on the scale.
- Then put back your baby in their crib (or a dockatot alternative), and step back on the scale without your baby.
- Record your weight.
- Subtract your weight from the first one and voila, that’s how you get your baby’s weight!
FAQ on Size 1 and Newborn Diapers
How many Size 1 diapers do I need?
Newborns may use up to 10 diapers per day, so having enough that can last for at least 2 months is advisable. The number of diapers you need will depend on your baby’s habits and how often you plan to restock.
Are newborn and size 1 diapers the same?
No, newborn and size 1 diapers are not the same due to the differences in weight ranges.
Do one size diapers fit newborns?
Yes, one-size diapers can fit some newborns, especially when the baby is on the large, tall, chubby side.
At what age do babies start wearing size 1 diaper?
Babies typically start wearing Size 1 diapers at age 2 to 3 months, but again, diapers depend on a baby’s size and weight, not their age.
How long are babies in newborn diapers?
Most babies stop using newborn diapers once they’re over nine or 10 pounds. So if your baby arrives on the scene weighing less than that—and they weren’t born prematurely—they’ll probably grow out of newborn diapers in 1 month or so.
How many newborn size diapers is a safe amount?
A safe amount of newborn size diapers is a pack or two. Typically, a newborn will have 10 diaper changes in a day so get diapers that will last you a month or so.
Diapering Tips and Hacks
- Always pull out leg ruffles to keep diaper messes in
- Use diaper liner pads (like Sposie pads or Dimples Booster Pads) for maximum, powered-up, absorption – especially at night!
- Fold down and inside the front of the diaper to avoid irritation on the umbilical stump in the early days.
- Never buy newborn diapers in bulk because, in 2 or 3 months, your baby won’t need it!
- Never buy diapers in one size that can last for 3 months, because you’ll never know when your baby will outgrow their diapers.
Newborn vs Size 1 Diapers: Takeaway
To wrap it up, if you have an average sized-newborn, then start with newborn-size diapers that can last you for at least a month.
But get Size 1 diapers as you will sooner or later, upsize your baby’s diapers.
I hope this guide has been helpful.
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