How to Choose the Right Diaper Size for Your Toddler
By Honest Baby and Beauty Company | The Honest Company | Published: 2026-10-23
Category: Buying Guides
Learn how to pick the perfect diaper size for your growing toddler with simple fit checks and Honest Diapers sizing tips.
Quick answer
For most toddlers, size 3 or size 5 diapers work best, depending on weight and activity level. Use the fit checks below to decide.
Why the right size matters for toddlers
Toddlers are on the move—crawling, walking, and climbing—so a diaper that fits well prevents leaks and keeps your child comfortable. A too-small diaper can leave red marks on the waist or thighs, while a too-large one may gap and cause blowouts. Weight ranges are a starting point, but your toddler's unique shape and activity level matter just as much.
Common sizing mistakes to avoid
Many parents size up too early, thinking a bigger diaper will hold more. In reality, a diaper that is too loose can leak just as much as one that is too tight. Another mistake is ignoring the leg gussets—if they are not sitting flat against the skin, the fit is off. Always check the waistband and leg bands after fastening.
How to choose the right diaper size
- Check the weight range on the package: Each Honest Diaper size lists a weight range (e.g., Size 3: 16–28 lbs, Size 5: 27+ lbs). Use this as your first guide, but also observe how the diaper fits your toddler's body.
- Perform the two-finger test at the waist: After fastening the tabs, you should be able to slide two fingers between the diaper and your toddler's belly. If you cannot, the diaper is too tight. If you can fit three or more, it is too loose. If the waist is too tight, try the next size up.
- Inspect the leg bands: The inner leg gussets should sit flat against the skin without gaps or bunching. If you see red marks or the bands dig in, size up. If there is a visible gap, size down. Leg gaps often cause leaks, especially during active play.
- Watch for leaks or blowouts: If you notice leaks around the legs or waist, the fit is likely off. Occasional blowouts can also signal that the diaper is too small to contain waste properly. A single blowout is normal, but repeated leaks mean it is time to adjust sizes.
- Consider your toddler's activity level: A very active toddler may need a snugger fit to prevent sagging. If your child is between sizes, try the larger size for overnight and the smaller size for daytime play. You can use two different sizes for different times of day.
Diaper options for toddlers
- Honest Clean Conscious Diapers®, All The Alpacas, Size 3: Honest Clean Conscious Diapers® in Size 3 feature Comfort Dry Technology for up to 100% leak protection. This means fewer outfit changes and less laundry for parents of active toddlers.
Honest Clean Conscious Diapers®, All The Alpacas, Size 3 - Honest Clean Conscious Diaper®, It's A Paw-ty, Size 5: Honest Clean Conscious Diapers® in Size 5 are designed for bigger toddlers and feature OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 Certification. You can feel confident that the materials are tested for harmful chemicals, which is especially important for sensitive skin.
Honest Clean Conscious Diaper®, It's A Paw-ty, Size 5
Who should choose which size?
Best for
- Toddlers weighing 16–28 lbs who are still crawling or just starting to walk: Size 3 (e.g., Honest Clean Conscious Diapers® Size 3)
- Active toddlers over 27 lbs who need extra room for movement: Size 5 (e.g., Honest Clean Conscious Diapers® Size 5)
Not for
- Toddlers with very skinny legs or those who are between weight ranges: consider trying a different size or using overnight diapers for extra absorbency
