Types
Once you answer the perennial diaper question--cloth or disposable?--you'll be able to select the right diaper pail for the job. Here are the two types of diaper pails to consider.
Pails for cloth diapers
Wet pails for cloth diapers are strong enough to hold a considerable amount of water but are easy to carry, and have a comfortable handle and a spout for pouring out soaking solution. A dry pail can be any sturdy plastic model that uses a standard plastic garbage bag for a liner, such as Safety 1st Easy Saver or Simple Step diaper pail, both of which can also be used for disposable diapers.
Pails for disposable diapers
Disposable diaper pails are typically simple models that are easy to operate. With some you can open and close the pail with one hand, which helps when you're holding a baby in the other. Other models offer a "hands free" design. You simply step on a pedal to open the lid and drop in a diaper. Still others have a motion sensor that automatically opens the lid when you wave your hand over it (batteries required). A number of diaper pails have an advantage because they can be used with regular trash bags. Others require specially made tubular bags specific to each that you have to purchase. The refills are an added expense that you may not want to bear.
Visit ConsumerReports.org for our latest information on Diaper pails
Copyright © 2006-2012 Consumers Union of U.S., Inc. No reproduction, in whole or in part, without written permission.
