Best Diaper Pails

Diaper Pail Buying Guide

Disposing of used diapers in a household trash can will leave unpleasant odors in the house. A diaper pail next to the changing table will control odors more effectively and needs to be emptied less frequently.

Here are some features to look for when choosing a diaper pail:

Safety. Check that the diaper pail has not been recalled. Some models have child safety locks that secure the lid and prevent the child from getting into the pail – the plastic liners or garbage bags can pose a suffocation hazard.

How well it blocks and contains odors. This is why you need a diaper pail – to lock in and neutralize odors. Some pails have a self-sealing or clamping system that locks in odors. Some models use deodorizers, special scented bags or liners treated with anti-microbial agents to mask or prevent odors.

Pail liners. Trash bags or special refills? Some diaper pails only work with specific or matching refill liners which can cost more; however, these liners are designed to contain smells better than regular liners. Pails that work with regular trash bags may be more cost effective in the long run but may not be as good in controlling odors. The pails that work best with trash bags are those that have self-sealing or clamping systems for odor control.

Whether it’s easy to open. A hands-fee diaper pail that opens with a foot pedal or has a motion activated lid is advantageous for disposing of dirty diapers, and a plus if the pail closure mechanism allows the least amount of odor to escape with each disposal.

Ease of use. Diaper pails should be easy to use and changing the diaper pail bags should not be a chore. Some diaper pails work like regular household trash cans, others require the insertion of a liner refill, pulling down and securing the plastic liner from the refill roll and then cutting off the top of the liner and tying it closed when the bag is full. Ease of use is typically a trade-off with odor control.

Capacity. A diaper pail with a bigger capacity means it can be emptied less often, but to minimize odor, pails should be emptied regularly. Keep in mind, that as diaper size increases, any pail will hold fewer diapers.

Height. A diaper pail should be tall enough so that disposing of diapers day in day out is not an undue strain on the body.

Price. All of our recommended diaper pails are less than $100. If the model requires special refills or deodorizers, this cost also needs to be factored in.

Have a question? Contact us.