There are so many options to choose from in the diaper aisle—which features does your child need? This guide helps sort out what's what so you can make the decision that best suits the unique needs of your little one.

Accordion-Stretch Panel: If your baby is extra squirmy or having problems with leaks, this pleated section above the leg opening could be the answer. It adapts to all your baby's adorable, twisty-turny moves.

Source: Store Brand Diaper Review: Publix. Baby Cheapskate on Facebook. November 21, 2008.

Bedtime: Provides sleep-time protection that your toddler can pull up and down. Gives your little potty-trainer the independence of underwear while giving you the peace of mind of extra wetness protection overnight.

Source: Diaper FAQ. Mondial International. 20015.

Boys vs. Girls: Extra absorbency in the most helpful spots, biologically speaking—higher in the front for boys, and a little lower for girls.

Source: Diaper FAQ. Mondial International. 20015.

Dry-Lock: An ultra-absorbent, outfit-saving internal layer, to help prevent messy leaks.

Source: Store Brand Diaper Review: Publix. Baby Cheapskate on Facebook. November 21, 2008.

Wetness Indicator: Lets you see (not feel—yay!) when the diaper's wet.

Size by Weight: Diaper sizes grow with your child like clothing sizes do, so these guidelines, found on all types of diapers, help score that winning combo of maximum absorbency and super-secure fit. Some newborns, for example, might weigh enough to skip the category altogether.

TIP: The bigger the size, the stronger the wetness protection, so consider bumping up a size if leakage is a problem.

Sources:
Diaper Size and Weight Chart. Pampers.
Diaper Fit Chart.

Stretchable Tab: A strong-yet-gentle diaper closure for a custom fit, which helps prevent leaks and keep your baby comfortable.

Sources:
"The Art of Diapering." HealthyChildren.org. November 21, 2015.
Store Brand Diaper Review: Publix. Baby Cheapskate on Facebook. November 21, 2008.
Diaper FAQ. Mondial International. 20015.

Swim: Specially designed to protect without expanding in water. Many pools require these to be worn by non-potty-trained kids, for health reasons.

Training Pants: An extra-absorbent, pull-on diaper-underwear hybrid that helps potty-training toddlers stay independent while getting caregivers out of accident cleanup duty.

Something to Think About: There's truly a reason behind all the diaper choices. Fit, absorbency, or skin sensitivity issues may be resolved simply by trying a different style the next time around, until you find the one that works beautifully for your baby.

Source: "The Art of Diapering." HealthyChildren.org. November 21, 2015.

Need help navigating all the infant formula options in the baby aisle? Check out our handy comparison chart.

This content is provided for general information purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice or a guarantee of prevention, improvement, or treatment of specific conditions. Always consult with your healthcare provider about your specific medical questions or concerns.