Best Overnight Diapers to Keep Your Baby Dry
Last Updated on July 12, 2021
It’s impossible to get a full night’s sleep if your baby has a soaking wet diaper. You don’t want to run the risk of your baby developing irritated skin, but it’s also not fun changing a diaper at 2 am.
Overnight diapers will help you and your baby sleep through the entire night, but how do you know which ones to use?
If you’re not sure what the best overnight diapers are or if your baby is ready for them, here’s everything you need to know.
Our Top Picks
- Best Overnight Diapers: Pampers Swaddlers Overnights
- Runner-Up Best Overnight Diapers: Huggies OverNites Diapers
- Best Overnight Diapers for Sensitive Skin: Bambo Nature Eco Friendly Baby Diapers
- Best Eco-Friendly Overnight Diapers: Honest Overnights
- Best Booster Pads for Heavy Wetters: Sposie Booster Pads
- Best Fragrance-Free Diaper: Seventh Generation Overnight Diapers
- Best Overnight Underwear for Toddlers: GoodNites Bedtime Underwear
- Best Overnight Cloth Diapers: BumGenius All in One Cloth Diaper
- Best Overnight Diapers for Budget: Luvs Ultra Leakguards Disposable Baby Diapers
- Best Diaper for Day & Night: Pampers Baby Dry Diapers
What are Overnight Diapers and How Are They Different From Daytime Diapers
At first glance, an overnight diaper looks and feels similar to its daytime counterparts. The fit is even the same as regular disposable diapers, but there is a crucial difference.
Overnight diapers are a little thicker than traditional diapers, but not enough to make your baby uncomfortable. Innovations like moisture-wicking, ultra-thin cores, and layers keep moisture away from your baby’s sensitive skin. So even if your baby has a heavy diaper in the morning, their bottom should be mostly dry.
Some parents also wonder if overnight diapers can be worn during the day. They do work great on long car trips or when you spend a lot of time in a public place.
However, overnight diapers are more expensive, which is why we’d choose overnight diapers for use only during bedtime.
When Should You Start Using Overnight Diapers
There isn’t a set age when your baby’s ready for overnight diapers since every child is different. Some infants start sleeping through the night at a few weeks, while it may take months for others.
When your child starts sleeping more than five or six hours at a time, it is probably time to switch to a brand that offers overnight protection.
Another sign is if your baby’s diaper begins to leak and seep into their pajamas. A leaking diaper in the morning means the regular diapers may not hold enough to last the night.
If you start noticing a wet diaper in the morning, after the middle of the night changes, it’s time to switch to make sure they can get a dry night’s sleep.
Reviews of the Best Overnight Diapers
Pampers Swaddlers Overnights boast maximum absorbency keeping your baby dry for up to 12 hours. The extra-absorbency diaper has lock-away channels that prevent moisture from irritating your little one’s skin.
They are also hypoallergenic with a breathable liner that keeps your baby’s diaper comfortable, along with the flexible sides. The diaper moves with your baby without leaving gaps that leaks can get through.
WHAT WE LOVE
- Number one brand recommended by pediatricians.
- Hypoallergenic and latex-free.
- Maximum absorbency in a non-bulky diaper.
- Breathable liner for comfort.
- Eight fun prints per package.
- Stretchable sides ensure a secure and comfortable fit.
WHAT COULD BE BETTER
- Diapers may not be absorbent enough for babies that pee frequently.
- Stretchable sides can cause leaks with active babies.
Sizes Available: 16-28, 22-37, 27+, and 35+ lbs
Huggies OverNites Diapers are designed to keep your baby comfortable. They have a contoured shape to better fit babies, along with a snug and comfortable waistband. Double-grip tabs ensure the diaper stays on all night.
The diapers are hypoallergenic and won’t irritate sensitive skin. A wetness indicator lets you know when it’s time to change the diaper without waking the baby. You also get up to 12 hours of overnight protection.
WHAT WE LOVE
- Double leak guard helps keep babies dry.
- Liner keeps moisture away from your baby’s skin.
- Hypoallergenic and latex-free.
- Snug and secure fit.
- Wetness indicator lets you know when the diaper needs changing.
- Up to 12-hours of wetness protection.
WHAT COULD BE BETTER
- Leaks can occur with babies that frequently go overnight.
- The diapers do not deodorize smells as well as some other brands.
Sizes Available: 16-28, 22-37, 27+, and 35+ lbs
The best overnight diaper that is disposable, eco-friendly, and free from all known allergens are the Bamboo Nature Eco Friendly Baby Diapers. These will keep your little one dry during the night since the diapers are designed for performance. They do well at absorbing wetness for up to 12 hours.
A breathable liner wicks moisture away and reduces the risk for diaper rash or other skin irritations. Flexible side panels allow for a comfortable and secure fit.
WHAT WE LOVE
- Top dry system and back sheet provide all-night protection.
- Contoured design provides a secure fit.
- Sustainably manufactured and eco-friendly, which other overnight diapers can’t claim.
- Free from all known allergens and irritating substances.
- Danish Asthma/Allergy certified and given the Nordic Swan Ecolabel for sustainable practices.
- Dermatologically tested and FSC-certified.
WHAT COULD BE BETTER
- Diapers are priced a little higher than some other brands.
- While eco-friendly, the diapers are not biodegradable.
Sizes Available: 4-8, 6-13, 11-19, 15-39, 26-48, and 35-66 lbs
The diapers are adorable, but that’s not why you are buying them. These super-absorbent diapers will keep your baby dry during the night so both you and baby can sleep. The absorbent core will prevent leaks for up to 12 hours.
The diapers are made from bio-based materials that include plants and sustainably harvested fluff pulp. The natural materials are hypoallergenic and you never have to worry about fragrances irritating the baby’s skin.
WHAT WE LOVE
- Made from sustainably and responsibly harvested natural materials.
- Soft liner wicks moisture away from the baby’s skin for ultimate comfort.
- Diapers are hypoallergenic and free from any fragrances or dyes.
- Refastening tabs allow you to check for wetness without ruining the secure fit.
- Super-absorbent diaper with a core that prevents leaks.
- Dermatologist tested and approved for sensitive skin.
WHAT COULD BE BETTER
- Diapers come at a price higher than most competitive brands.
- Babies that frequently go during the night may only have protection for 6 to 8 hours.
Sizes Available: 16-28, 22-37, 27+, 35+ lbs
Some babies and toddlers constantly pee throughout the night, and even super-absorbent overnight diapers aren’t enough to prevent soiled sheets. The Sposie Booster Pad is an easy and cost-effective solution.
The pads are priced lower than an overnight diaper and are designed to work with any brand. Simply slip a booster pad into the diaper for extra protection.
The booster pads are comfortable and won’t slide around when your child tosses and turns. They’re especially great for tummy sleepers so the extra pressure doesn’t force pee to soak through.
Hypoallergenic certified and tested by pediatricians and dermatologists, the diaper booster pads are safe for baby’s delicate skin.
WHAT WE LOVE
- Recommended by pediatricians and dermatologists for children with delicate skin.
- Universal fit ensures the pads fit most diaper brands.
- Constructed from soft, natural materials for all-night comfort.
- Doubles the absorbency of your cloth or disposable diaper.
- An adhesive seam easily secures the pad to the diaper.
WHAT COULD BE BETTER
- Universal size does not fit all diapers. It is designed for babies six months and older.
- Adhesive can irritate the skin if babies touch the backing.
Sizes Available: Universal Size recommended for children 6+ months.
Seventh Generation Diapers are made for newborns and babies with sensitive skin. They are fragrance and lotion-free. Even the diaper’s core is free from chlorine bleach and is made from FSC sustainably sourced wood pulp.
Every aspect of the diaper is designed to avoid irritating your baby’s skin. The core is also ultra-absorbent, preventing leaks throughout the night. The diapers also have a soft cotton liner that keeps your baby comfortable while absorbing moisture.
WHAT WE LOVE
- All materials are sustainably sourced, and FSC certified.
- 100% fragrance-free and hypoallergenic with no chlorine bleaching.
- Absorbent core prevents leaks at night, along with the cotton liner.
- Breathable layer for added comfort.
- Leakage protection for up to 12 hours.
WHAT COULD BE BETTER
- Diapers may be too small for babies at the top of the height and growth charts.
- Occasional odor of pine trees due to the wood pulp core.
Sizes Available: Newborn up to 10, 8-14, 12-18, 16-21, 16-24, 27-35, and 35+ lbs
GoodNites Bedtime Underwear is one of the top-rated products for potty training and to prevent bedwetting. The disposable underwear comes with reinforced leg barriers and 5-layer protection.
Wetness is absorbed and locked away from your child’s skin. It also helps the training underwear comfortably fit all body types. Kids will wake up feeling clean no matter how their night went.
WHAT WE LOVE
- 5-layer protection ensures dryness all through the night for potty training toddlers.
- Wide variety of fun prints makes it easy to convince kids to wear underwear.
- Made for both male and female bodies.
- Odor absorbing technology helps prevent bad smells in the morning.
- Stretchy sides and waistband ensure a comfortable fit.
- Soft material won’t itch or scratch your child’s skin.
WHAT COULD BE BETTER
- Underwear’s construction may be too flimsy for active sleepers.
- Odor protection properties can irritate extremely delicate skin.
Sizes Available: 28-43lb, 43-68, 68-95, 95-140 lbs
BumGenius, All in One Cloth Diaper, is easy and convenient to use. It is also super absorbent, capable of keeping your baby’s skin dry for up to 12 hours. It’s a disposable cloth diaper, so you don’t have to worry about added laundry.
The closures are loops and hooks, making it a breeze to fasten the diaper on wiggly babies. A soft lining and ultra-absorbent core keep your child dry and comfortable throughout the night. The diaper is specifically designed for newborns and fits below the navel to keep the umbilical area clean and dry.
WHAT WE LOVE
- Specifically designed for newborns and their sensitive navels.
- Ultra-absorbent core keeps infants dry for hours.
- Soft lining won’t irritate sensitive newborn skin.
- Disposable for convenient use.
- Hook and loop closures are easy to use.
- Stretchable tabs expand with your baby’s movements.
WHAT COULD BE BETTER
- Diaper cloth is not biodegradable.
- Diapers are made from polyester, which may irritate some infants’ skin.
Sizes Available: Newborn, 6-12 lbs
Luvs Ultra Leak guards Disposable Baby Diapers feel soft and comfortable on your infant’s skin. Nightlock technology prevents leaks for up to 12 hours, keeping your baby dry and happy for a good night’s sleep.
An indicator on the tab changes color, so you know if the overnight diaper is wet or dry. The diaper designs help to provide a more snug and comfortable fit.
Elastic leg cuffs prevent leaks and allow your baby to move around. Large resealable tabs ensure you won’t have a problem getting the diaper on.
WHAT WE LOVE
- Large, easy-to-use resealable tabs.
- 12-hour protection with triple leak guards.
- Stretchy sides for maximum comfort at night.
- Wetness indicator lets you know when the overnight diaper needs changing.
- Diapers are priced lower than many competitor brands.
WHAT COULD BE BETTER
- These disposable diapers may be too thin for some heavy wetters.
- Elastic cuffs may irritate some babies’ legs.
Sizes Available: Newborn up to 10, 8-14, 12-18, 16-28, 22-37, 27+, and 35+ lbs
Pampers Baby Dry Diapers are designed to provide 12 hours of protection. The diapers have 5-layers to absorb moisture, along with two leak guard barriers. There are also channels that soak up wetness, keeping it away from your baby’s skin.
Soft material ensures comfort, along with flexible sides for a good fit. A convenient indicator lets you know when the child’s diaper needs changing, which is helpful day or night.
WHAT WE LOVE
- Wetness indicator lets you know if the overnight diaper is wet or dry.
- 5-layers of protection prevent leaks for 12 hours.
- Pampers is the brand recommended most by pediatricians.
- Hypoallergenic and free from latex and parabens.
- Less bulky design makes the diapers good for day or night.
WHAT COULD BE BETTER
- Thinner design may not provide 12-hour protection for all babies.
- Diapers are priced higher than some competitors.
Sizes Available: Newborn to 10, 8-14, 12-18, 16-28, 22-37, 27+, 35+, and 41+ lbs
What to Look for in Overnight Diapers
Choosing a brand of overnight diapers isn’t any different than picking daytime ones. You want to look at the same factors.
Absorbency
Overnight diapers have different absorbency rates usually listed under thickness. Thin diapers provide the least amount of protection, while ones rated for maximum absorbency almost always ensure even babies that pee heavily stay dry throughout the night.
Diaper costs typically go up the higher the absorption rate. If you don’t need maximum absorbency, it may not make sense to pay the higher price.
Material & Liner
You have your choice of disposable or cloth nighttime diapers. Either type of diaper can be equally effective at preventing nighttime leaks.
Cloth diapers are made from layers of cotton fabric. You can also find bamboo, hemp, and microfiber diapers. The fabric layers are made of highly absorbent material and the diapers are washable.
Disposable diapers are made from synthetic materials, though the liner is often a cotton blend. You can find them in a variety of sizes and absorption rates. You also don’t have to worry about doing the laundry. When the diaper is soiled, you throw it away.
Fit and Secureness
Even cloth diapers aren’t one-size-fits-all, though you do have a little more leeway with fabric. Diapers are sold by size, starting at newborn and going up to toddler.
The diaper’s secureness is something you want to look for since loose diapers cause messy cleanups. Elastic around the legs and waist helps keep the diaper in place, but you need to make sure the pull tabs. These adhesive tabs keep the overnight diaper snug and secure.
Wetness Indicators
Some diapers come with wetness indicators on the tabs and other overnight diapers have a thin line that goes down the front of the diaper. The narrow bar changes color when it’s time for a diaper change, which is a convenient way to monitor wetness levels.
Hypoallergenic Material
Some diapers come with perfumes and moisturizers that can irritate soft skin. It’s not an issue with cloth overnight diapers, though check your brand of laundry detergent since it may not be hypoallergenic.
Diaper Count/Price Per Diaper
You can find everything from single diapers to bulk sizes. Before you stock up for a year, think about how fast your baby is growing. You don’t want to be stuck with a large supply of diapers that no longer fit.
You’ll also want to pay attention to the price per diaper. Just divide the number of diapers in the package by the total price.
Conclusion
Overall, the best overnight diaper is Pampers Overnight Swaddlers. The diapers are hypoallergenic, provide 12-hour leak protection, and are comfortable on your baby. If your budget is a concern, try Luvs Ultra Leakguards Disposable Baby Diapers which are often lower in price.