What Are Diapers Made Of?
The composition and functionality of diaper use directly affects the health of newborn baby and infant. Especially considering that diapers are used from day one to change baby’s clothes and nappies. It is very important to use modern and comfortable diaper. Once you know about the basics of diapers’ composition it will help you to make the right decision among numerous types. This article aims to explain what diaper is made of and what materials are used in its production.
Basic Structure of Diapers
Today’s disposable diapers mostly share the same architecture: a top layer, absorbent core layer and bottom layer. Each of these layers has a different function to make the diaper soft and well-performing.
Top Layer (Surface Layer)
The innermost layer is the one in direct contact with the baby’s body. Usually it is composed of soft nonwoven fabric. Its main characteristics are:
1. Soft and Comfort: This layer is non-woven fabric, which is soft to avoid skin irritation soft and reduce skin friction.
2. Proper Breathability: Enables the air to flow, maintain moisture balance of babies’ skin, to stop moist sensation.
3. Quick Liquid transfer: Funnels urine quickly into the absorbent core so the surface stays dry to reduce diaper rash.
Absorbent Layer (Core Layer)
The absorbent layer is the main component of the diaper, that absorbs and locks urea from urine. Main materials include :
1. Fluff pulp: This is made from wood, pulped to be quite bulky with good absorbency. It holds in urine, preventing leaks.
2. Super Absorbent Polymer (SAP): A superabsorbent polymer that quickly absorbs hundreds of times its weight in liquid – in the form of tiny granules in the fluff pulp. The granules absorb urine to avoid leaking and rewetting.
Back Layer
The backing is the outermost layer of the diaper, usually is made from a waterproof polyethylene (PE) film, which mainly has:
1. Leak Prevention: urine won’t seep out of the nappy, keeping baby clothes and bed dry.
2. Breathability: High-quality back layer materials are breathable and allow for exchange of airflow and reduces the humidity buildup from the baby’s body.
Other Components
Besides the three basic levels, diapers are augmented by several add-ons that enhance functionality and comfort:
1. Elastic Bands and Velcro Tabs
2. Waist Elastic Bands: Around the waist of the diaper. Gives a softer feeling and makes sure that the diaper fits nice and snug, to reduce leaks.
3. Leg Cuffs: Placed along the sides of the diaper, providing additional leak protection, particularly while the infant is in motion.
4. Velcro Tabs: To attach the diaper, parents must adjust the fit to ensure comfort and safety.
Skin Protection Layer Some top-of-the-line diapers take an extra step to protect your baby’s skin and prevent diaper rash and irritation, with a skin protection layer with ingredients like aloe vera and vitamin E.
Eco-Friendly Diaper Materials
With increasing consciousness about the environment, parents are using more eco-friendly diapers, which are usually made of natural and biodegradable ingredients, such as:
1. Organic Cotton: Natural and free of pollutants, soft and breathable, suitable for sensitive skin.
2. Bamboo Fiber: Naturally antibacterial, breathable, and absorbent, eco-friendly and biodegradable.
3. Biodegradable Super Absorbent Polymers: New materials that break down in the environment to reduce ecological impact.
Conclusion
Knowing the basic materials and construction of diapers will help parents to chosce the most suitable product among diaper varieties. The comfort and function factor of diapers are directly related to the health of babies, and choosing the right diaper will ease the feelings of baby’s comfort and also protect the environment. Hope this article offers you some news information to make sure you are providing your baby the best care for growing up.