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Best nappies 2025: our pick of the best disposable, swim and eco-friendly nappies according to real parents
Nappies are a huge part of life as a parent, but how do you know which ones are right for you and your child? We’ve done the research so you don't have to. Here are are the best nappies according to real UK parents, including the best eco-friendly options, nappies for older kids and swim nappies.
By Jenny Wonnacott | Last updated Dec 18, 2025
Ah, the nappy change. Not the most glamorous part of parenthood, but certainly one of the most frequent.
With the average baby going through over 5,000 disposable nappies by the time they are two years old, according to Which?, it's no wonder that finding reliable, absorbent and affordable nappies is high on most parents' agendas.
And while eco-friendly, reusable options are becoming ever more popular (check out our dedicated guide to the best reusable nappies for Mumsnetter-approved brands), parents in their droves are still opting for disposables, turning to supermarkets and eco-friendly brands that fit their needs and lifestyles.
Best nappies 2025: at a glance
Best nappies overall: ALDI Mamia Nappies | £8 (60 pack)
Best eco-friendly nappies: Pura Eco Baby Nappies | £4 (25 pack)
Best nappies for overnight use: Pampers Baby-Dry | £16 (98 pack)
Best nappies for secure fit: Rascals Nappies | £30 (216 pack)
Best nappies for older children: Libero Comfort 7 Nappies | £10 (21 pack)
Best nappies for absorbency: Kit & Kin Premium Eco Nappies |
£50£34 (-32%) (128 pack)Best budget nappies: Fred & Flo Ultra Dry Nappies | £2 (58 pack)
Best swimming nappies: Huggies Little Swimmers | £4 (12 pack)
Best nappy pants: Pampers Active Fit | £15 (28 pack)
Best hypoallergenic nappies: Bambo Nature Nappies |
£33£24 (-28%) (132 pack)Best nappies for sensitive skin: Boots Little Stories Bamboo Nappies | £6 (24 pack)
Best branded nappies: Mum & You Nappychat Nappies | £9 (42 pack)
Of course, every child is different when it comes to nappy needs: that’s in size, skin sensitivity, activeness and, well, explosions. What works for some won’t work for others - our Mumsnet users’ real, shared experiences are testament to that.
And, of course, it's important to note that it's not just babies who need nappies - according to the NHS, it's normal for children to not be dry at night up to the age of five and, for many children and teenagers, particularly if additional needs are a factor, nappies are an ongoing necessity. While many of our top brand recommendations include sizes up to 6 or 7 (catering for children weighing up to 15 to 17+kg) we've also taken into consideration real parents' recommendations for older children too.
Parents know that not all baby products are created equal. That's why we obsessively research all sorts of products, from the best changing bags to the best breast pumps and best baby bottles. It's one way we can help make parents' lives that little bit easier.
Best nappies overall
Excellent value for money
Special system for absorbency
Dermatologically accredited
Some Mumsnetters say the larger sizes are less absorbent
Key specs
Price per nappy: 11p | Sizes 1-7 | Nappy pack sizes: 24, 48, 56, 60, 72, 84
What Mumsnet users say
Aldi’s Mamia nappies are so popular among parents that we're recommending them as the top disposable nappies to buy as well as the best supermarket nappies and best nappies for newborns.
With loads of options to choose from within the range - including nappy pants, a premium range with ‘dry fast’ technology and sizes from newborn right up to seven - this is a nappy that will suit all families, no matter what nappy-wearing stage your baby is at.
The Newborn Premium Dry Fast is super stretchy with a wetness indicator (a smart colour-changing strip to make it clear when your baby needs changing), while the Nappy Pants' ultra-dry air system boasts even liquid distribution, fast absorption and they’re dermatologically accredited.
Read next: The best changing mats to buy, as recommended by parents
Best eco-friendly nappies
Affordable (cheaper than several other eco-friendly brands)
Allergy-friendly
Very soft
Some reviewers reported leaks
Key specs
Price per nappy: From 21p | Size: 1-7 | Nappy pack sizes: 22 - 198
What Mumsnet users say
It's not often that you get a brand of nappies which are friendly to the planet and are priced just as competitively as supermarket budget buys. Not only are Pura nappies eco-friendly thanks to being made from natural plant fibres, they're super-absorbent, cheap and come in a huge range of sizes.
They're soft and gentle on sensitive newborn skin as well - with several reviewers commenting that their baby's nappy rash improved after switching to this brand.
They also have a range of nappy pants too, putting them among the best nappies for crawlers and toddlers as well as newborns.
Read next: Find the best nappy bins and baby wipes as tried, tested and approved by Mumsnetters
Best nappies for overnight use
Long-lasting absorbency
Stop and Protect pocket designed specifically for 'poonamis'
Regular offers and bulk buys
More expensive than supermarket brands
Key specs
Price per nappy: From 18p | Sizes 3-8 | Nappies in a pack: 23 - 174
What Mumsnet users say
We reckon everyone’s heard of Pampers nappies and it’s clear why. Parents offer high praise - particularly for the Pampers Baby-Dry. Many Mumsnetters have been impressed by the lack of leakage, especially overnight. The nappies have a quick dry core that lasts for up to 12 hours and a Stop and Protect Pocket to help prevent leaks at the back. Read: hopefully no nighttime poonami changes for you!
Thanks to their secure, strong holding tape and soft, stretchable wings, they’re great for any little wrigglers as they stay comfortable and in place throughout the night. Pampers Baby-Dry has no shortage of impressive details to make your life easier - and thanks to their new 174-strong monthly pack, they're a great option for buying in bulk!
Read next: The best potties to buy, as recommended by Mumsnetters
Best nappies for secure fit
Stretchy, high-back waistband
Very absorbent
Suitable for sensitive skin
Not too expensive
Tester found them to be a bit bulkier than some other nappies
Key specs
Price per nappy: From 10p | Sizes 1-7 | Nappies in a pack: 32 - 296
What Mumsnet users say
Reviewed by Mumsnet editor Jenny Wonnacott: Read our in-depth Rascals Nappies review
Featuring six 'core innovations' including a Hydrolock Core promising up to 12 hours of leak protection, as well as a fast-dry layer and stretchy, high-back waistband, Rascals nappies seem to tick all the right boxes, including price and biodegradability.
Our tester found them to be excellent in terms of absorption, easily handling overnight wear and particularly liked the reassurance of the stretchy, high-back waistband which offered a secure fit with no leaks.
Best nappies for older children
Sizes go up to 60kg
Recommended by Incontinence Choice
Range of nappies, pull-ups and nighttime nappies
The pull-ups may not be as absorbent as the taped nappies
Nappy pack sizes not as large as more mainstream brands
Key specs
Price per nappy: From 30p | Sizes: 1-10 (60kg) | Nappy pack sizes: 9-26
Nappies aren't just for babies - sometimes a child will take longer than average to grow out of needing them, and sometimes additional needs mean that nappies are an ongoing day-to-day necessity. If you fall into either of these camps, you're certainly not alone.
Libero is a brand that comes up frequently on the Mumsnet forums as ideal for older children. With sizing accommodating children weighing up to 60kg (approx. 9.5 stone) and ranges including bedtime options, they're a solid choice if you're not quite ready to look into adult nappies.
More of the best nappies for older children: at a glance
Best nappies for absorbency
Flash drying layer
Hypoallergenic
Vegan, cruelty-free and made using sustainable materials
More expensive than others
Some reviewers say the sizing is a little off
Key specs
Price per nappy: From 20p | Sizes 1-6 | Nappies in a pack: 40
What Mumsnet users say
Award-winning Kit & Kin Eco Nappies have plenty of useful and reassuring qualities including their great absorbency which our Mumsnet users rate. They protect from leaks for up to 12 hours with channel technology that evenly distributes liquid, and they have a flash dry layer to absorb and lock away moisture, keeping bums nice and dry. They’re hypoallergenic too, so great for sensitive skin.
Of course, we also love the eco-friendly qualities - vegan and cruelty-free - and Kit & Kin uses sustainable materials and protects an acre of rainforest for every 10 subscriptions, which make these a great disposable option (if you’re not ready for the leap of reusables).
Thought nappies couldn’t be cute? Check out Kit & Kin's adorable animal designs which will brighten changing times.
Best budget nappies
The price, starting at 5p per nappy
Dermatologically tested
Soft, slim and secure
Other Tesco nappy products available but they are more expensive
Key specs
Price per nappy: 3p | Sizes 3-7 | Nappies in a pack: 56
What Mumsnet users say
Starting from 3p per nappy, Tesco's Fred & Flo is an excellent budget nappy option that our Mumsnetters rate (despite some online reviewers reporting leaks).
Your baby should be secure and comfy, no matter how much of a wriggler they are, thanks to the nappies’ ‘new improved softness,’ slim feel, secure fastening and dermatologically tested stamp. They also have Rapid Dry Technology in the form of absorbing channels that lock away wee to maintain dryness and up to 12 hours of absorbency protection.
Fred & Flo comes in sizes 3 to 7, including plus size options, newborn and Easy Fit Pants. Tesco’s Rascal & Friends range is also recommended by some Mumsnetters on our forums, but these nappies costs a little more.
Best nappy pants
Quick dry core works for up to 12 hours
Super-flexible leg cuffs and waist for extra-active babies and toddlers
Stop and Protect pocket for added protection
Pricier than other brands
Some Mumsnetters don't advise using nappy pants if you're planning to use potty training pants
Key specs
Price per nappy: From 21p | Sizes: 4 - 6 | Nappy pack size: 32 - 168
What Mumsnet users say
A second-entry for nappy guru Pampers, the Active Fit range comes up time and time again on the Mumsnet boards as recommended best nappy pull-ups. Parents love the absorbency of these pull-up nappy pants, which are designed specifically with active crawlers and toddlers in mind.
Like the Baby-Dry range, the Active Fit nappies all include a Stop and Protect pocket to help prevent leaks up the back. They also have an extra absorbent core designed to last up to 12 hours, so there's no reason why you can't use these overnight as well.
Read next: The best changing mats and travel potties according to parents
Best hypoallergenic nappies
Totally chemical-free
Eco-friendly, made from responsibly-sourced materials
Wetness indicator
Some reviewers reported that the leg holes weren't stretchy enough
Key specs
Price per nappy: From 22p | Sizes: 0 - 6 | Nappy pack sizes: 22
Ticking the boxes for sustainability, sensitivity, absorbency and hypoallergenic properties, Bambo Nature nappies are another popular choice for parents.
Bambo Nature come in a good range of sizes too, starting from XXS Size 0 for babies weighing as little as 2lb or 1kg and going all the way up to 16kg+. And, from 22p per nappy, they're afforadable too - a solid option if you want sustainable, eco-friendly nappies but aren't quite ready for the washing demands of reusable nappies.
Related: The best breast pumps and baby bottles to buy in 2025.
Best nappies for sensitive skin
Suitable for sensitive skin
Flexible cuffs and waistband
Recyclable packaging
Some reviewers say the nappies are a little stiff when they first come out of the pack
Key specs
Price per nappy: 23p | Size 1-4 | Nappies in a pack: 24
What Mumsnet users say
If your baby has sensitive skin, Boots' Little Stories Bamboo nappies could be what you need. They’re made using bamboo fibres and have flexible cuffs and waistband so your little one can wriggle away without irritation. Added bonus: the nappies contain 40% plant based materials and the packaging is 100% recyclable (check your local facilities).
Boots also has other types of nappies, including Super Dry (if you’re looking for leakproof) and swim nappies - all at reasonable prices.
Related: The best changing bags and sippy cups according to parents in the know.
Best branded nappies
Made with sustainable wood pulp
Free from chemicals, perfume, lotion and latex
Fun design to inspire play at changing time
More expensive than some other nappies on our list
Key specs
Price per nappy: From 22p | Size 2-5 | Nappies in a pack: 18 - 132
These Mumsnet Rated nappies get a seal of approval from Mumsnet users, meaning they’ve been tried and tested by real parents, with more than 80% of testers saying they would recommend Mum & You nappies to family and friends.
They’re a great eco option as they’re made with sustainable wood pulp and the packaging is 100% recyclable. Plus, they’re free-from added chemicals, perfume, lotion and latex, and are dermatologically tested: great for sensitive skin.
The design of these nappies is just the cherry on top. Patterns of Nappychat characters inspire story-telling at change time, encouraging bonding between you and your baby, as well as supporting their speech development.
If these nappies work for you, you can subscribe to buy regularly, which means a substantial saving per month.
Related: The best sterilisers and baby baths according to parents
How we chose the best nappies
We've done extensive nappy research so you don't have to. Taking authentic, honest recommendations from parents - combined with expert opinion - we've compiled our list of the 10 best nappies out there right now.
We consulted the Mumsnet forums to get advice from families who've vetted hundreds of nappies: that’s real parents who have tried and tested these nappies on their own babies and toddlers, rating them on everything from value to absorbency.
We utilised results from our very own Mumsnet Rated testing, where each product is tested by at least 150 parents from the Mumsnet community.
We considered the most popular brands among households up and down the country, only shortlisting nappies with overwhelming positive reviews.
We read other expert reviews and recommendations from trusted online publications to see which nappies were popular and why.
We then weighed all of this up against the nappies’ costs and features to bring you a list that we hope will inspire your choices. N.B We've linked to a variety of nappy sizes in our round-up
Whether you have a baby with sensitive skin, you’re searching for something more eco-friendly or you're on a tight budget, we hope this list helps you find just what you and your baby need.
How to choose the best nappies for your baby
Every baby is different so while the nappies on our list came recommended by real parents on our Mumsnet forums, they won’t suit everyone. Often, it’s best to try and test a few and see what works for you.
Think about what you need most - whether that be something low cost, a nappy for sensitive skin or a high-absorption nappy for heavy-wetters - and see which of our recommended products might suit.
Always consider:
Size and fit
Nappies come in sizes zero to six, fitting babies and toddlers of all weights between 1 kg and 16+kg. Nappies for younger babies often prioritise keeping them dry. As your baby starts to crawl and toddle, nappies are often labelled as 'active' and aim to prevent any leaks.
For a nappy to fit correctly, there should be no leaks around the waist or through the leg holes. As your baby move up the sizes and becomes more, look for elasticated waistbands, strong tabs that don't come loose and secure leg cuffs.
Manufacturer sizing will vary, however, so if you don't get on well with a particular nappy brand and need a snugger fit, then do try another.
Absorbency
Most disposable nappies are made out of three layers - an outer, a core and a top layer. The core features a water-absorbent polymer that draws moisture away from the skin and into the nappy, which helps to prevent nappy rash. Other absorbency features to look out for, particularly as your baby gets older and more active, are flash dry layers to lock away moisture, and materials like bamboo and wood pulp for extra dryness.
Environmental impact
While more convenient than reusable nappies, disposable nappies are single-use, made of plastic and will ultimately end up in landfill. This means that they're less environmentally-friendly than their cloth counterparts, even if you are choosing eco options which tend to be partly made out of biodegradable materials.
Wetness indicators
Wetness indicators, i.e. a yellow line down the front of the nappy, are handy as they will let you know if your baby's nappy needs changing. For babies with particularly sensitive skin, regular changing will help to prevent nappy rash.
Types of nappy
Newborn: these usually have a U-shaped cut-out to avoid irritating or covering the umbilical cord.
Active: these are stretchier nappies, great for preventing leaks and spillages when your baby starts to move around on their own.
Plus: extra absorbent and designed to withstand more moisture, therefore a good choice for overnight. Plus nappies are labelled with a + sign on the packaging.
Swim: both reusable and disposable options are a swimming must for any baby or child who hasn’t been potty trained.
How much do nappies cost?
Nappies vary wildly when it comes to cost, with supermarket brands typically sitting at the lower end of the price range and eco and brands options sitting at the top.
However, it's always worth looking out for multi-buy offers, as well as bulk buy deals and subscription options, especially for premium branded and more eco-friendly nappies.
What size nappies do I need?
Nappies generally come in sizes 0 to 6, fitting babies and toddlers of weights between 1kg and 16+kg. Nappies for younger babies often prioritise keeping your baby dry. As your baby starts to crawl and toddle, nappies are often labelled as ‘active’ and aim to prevent any leaks.
When a nappy fits correctly, there should not be any leaks around the waist or through the leg holes. Manufacturer sizing will vary, however, so if a particular nappy brand isn’t working for you and you need a snugger fit, try a different one.
How many disposable nappies does a baby use?
Every child is different so you’ll find your own groove. However, expect an average of 70 nappies per week for a newborn baby, 50 to 70 for a child wearing size 1 nappies, 35 to 50 for size 2 and approximately 35 for size 3. Recycling charity Wrap estimates that by the time a baby is potty trained, they could have used a total of 4,000 to 6,000 disposable nappies.
What are the best nappies to buy?
As we say, each baby will have different needs and preferences so it might be useful to try a few out and see which suits. We hope our list is a helpful starting point for you.
We think Aldi’s Mamia Ultra-Dry nappies are the best nappies to buy right now. They offer great value for money, feature a range of choices to suit different households and receive overwhelmingly high praise from parents across the UK.
About the author
Jenny Wonnacott is a Content Editor for Mumsnet, specialising in writing, editing and optimising pregnancy, baby care and general parenting-related content. As a parent of three primary school-aged children, Jenny is passionate about making Mumsetters' lives easier through rigorous research of all items recommended in reviews, features buyers' guides.
She regularly reviews a wide range of parenting and lifestyle products for Mumsnet, from breast pumps to kettles, travel cots and cribs.
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