Baby Diaper Blowouts and Leaks: When to Change Diaper Size

Choose the Right Diaper Size

Size is a huge part of finding the right diaper fit for your baby. As you know, babies come in all different shapes and sizes. And just like clothing, diapers fit every baby differently. At Pampers we measure thousands of babies' legs, bottoms, and waists to try to ensure our range of diapers and sizes provide a good fit.

Pampers diaper sizes are organized by weight, and since no two babies are the same shape you will notice some overlap between sizes. In most cases, your baby should be within the weight range for the size you are using. Check out the weight range for each size of Pampers Swaddlers, Cruisers, and Baby Dry.

Ensure the Diaper Fits Well

When a diaper fits well, it should appear straight and equally proportioned on your baby. When you change your baby's diaper you should also check that:

• The waist is snug with the diaper just under the belly button.

• The leg cuffs wrap neatly around your baby's legs and bottom. After putting on the diaper, run your fingers around these edges to make sure the cuffs are pulled out. Cuffs being tucked inside are a common cause of leakage.

• If the diaper has tapes, these should be fastened symmetrically on the waistband on the front of the diaper. Pampers diapers stretch with your baby—the flexible sides adapt to your little one's shape and movement and help you create a custom fit.

If your little one is still a newborn, you’ll need to be extra careful around the umbilical cord area until it heals completely. Check out this article about umbilical cord care for more on caring for your baby’s delicate skin as you change their diaper.

Why Do Diapers Leak?

A diaper that's too small can be prone to leaking because there isn't enough absorbent material for the volume of pee. If your baby is reaching the upper end of the weight range for the diaper size they are currently wearing, it is probably time to move to the next size. Other signs that your baby's diaper is too small would be:

• The diaper isn't covering your baby's bottom completely.

• There are red marks and signs of chafing around the waist or thighs, which may indicate the diaper is too tight.

• The diaper is soaking through.

Bigger diapers are capable of handling more waste as they have more absorbent material. However, diapers may also leak because they are too big. Make sure that the diaper fits snugly around the waist and thighs by running your fingers around the edges and checking that there are no gaps. If you prefer to have a diaper that is loose-fitting, you may experience leakage as urine and poop comes out through the gaps before it can be absorbed.

Avoid the Dreaded Diaper Blowout

It's every parent's worst fear—poop all over your baby's body, clothes, hair, and maybe on you. Blowouts tend to happen at the back of the diaper where it is hard to create a seal. In many cases blowouts happen because of the wrong size diaper or diapers that aren't fully snug on the baby.

Luckily, Pampers' new Blowout Barrier for Swaddlers and Cruisers 360° takes aim at blowouts by adding an extra layer of protection at the back of the diaper and at the waist. This new feature helps to close the gap at the waist, helping to prevent blowouts and provide seamless comfort for your little one.

And along with the Dual Leak Guard barriers at the legs, the Blowout Barrier helps to provide up to 100% leak protection.

By choosing a snug, well-fitting diaper, especially one with an extra layer of protection, you'll be able to change your baby's diapers with ease, even when you're out and about, and help avoid leaks and blowouts.

Remember to keep your diaper bag well stocked so you have everything you'll need when you're on the go. Use this handy diaper bag checklist to make sure you and your baby are covered for every situation, whether you're heading out on an errand, taking a day trip, or enjoying a few days away with your little one.

By the way, while you’re buying all these Pampers diapers and wipes, did you know you could be getting great rewards, like coupons, in return? Download the Pampers Club App and turn your diapers (and wipes!) into exclusive savings.