By Lauren Hartmann, Disney Baby
Have you ever tried reading the size guidelines on the side of a box of
diapers? If so, you've quickly realized just how tricky diaper sizing
can be. Perhaps your baby's current diapers are every-so-slightly snug,
but you're not quite sure if your little one is ready for the next size?
Well, here are a few simple signs that will let you know when it's time
to move up a size in diapers!
Signs for Knowing When to Size Up on Diapers:
1. Frequent leaks or blowouts
One of the most obvious signs of a too-small diaper is when your
little one is constantly leaking through diapers or having "blow outs."
While parents may sometimes jump to the conclusion that the problem lies
with the brand of diaper they're using, but in reality
a diaper that is too small won't be able to contain your little ones
messes, no matter what brand it is. Try sizing up and see if that
eliminates the problem.
2. Read the box
This may seem obvious, but if your child is approaching the upper
limit of the diaper's weight range (i.e., you have a 16-pound baby in
12- to 18-pound size diapers) it may be time to consider a switch. The
weight limits are based on average-sized babies, but not all babies are
shaped the same. With some diaper sizes, my daughter had to move up well
before the weight limit on the box, but with other sizes (like her
current size 4 diapers) she's above the weight limit by a pound or two,
and they still fit fine. Try different sizes, and see what works best
for your child.
3. Red marks
If your baby has red marks along their thighs, that's a telltale sign
that the diapers are too snug. The elastic around the leg should have
some stretch, but if the diaper is too small, it won't fit properly and
will create these red marks. This is definitely a time to move up a size
in diapers.
4. Check the waist
If you're having difficulty connecting the diaper tabs at your baby's
waist, that could be a sign that it's time to move up a size. A diaper
should close easily without having to tug and pull at them. Also,
consider the rise of the diaper. A properly fitting diaper should come
just slightly below your little one's belly button. If it's fitting a
little more like a low rise, it's time to move on up!
Image: Getty Images