The diaper pail is one of the pieces of those baby gear you’re really going to lean on (not literally, though, OK? That’s gross!). If you’re thinking “Diaper pail, that’s silly! I’ll just use a regular trash can, it’ll be fine,” we’re going to stop you right there. It won’t be fine. A regular trash cannot contain this madness. Trust us. Your diaper pail is going to be a major workhorse during the first year (and beyond) and this is not a wasted purchase. Once baby is a toddler and out of diapers, you can re-purpose your diaper pail into a regular trash bin. Or incinerate it.
The best diaper pails not only trap odors, but also open easily, let you change bags/liners without a Ph.D., and won’t require you to spend zillions of dollars on accessories. (But no matter which pail you get, we’re still going to recommend mouth-breathing for the 15 seconds that it’s open. That’s just common sense.)
Our Favorites…
It’s not just us. Ubbi has over 1,700 Amazon reviews and has won several awards. It’s made of steel, not plastic, which they claim holds the smell in better. Who knew.
Pros: Uses regular garbage bags which makes up for the higher price point; Easy bag insertion and removal; Holds over 50 newborn diapers (!); Slim with small footprint; Optional lock on lid; Many color/pattern options
Cons: Unlocking the bin is an extra step, especially while you’re busy changing baby, so we’d just recommend leaving the lid unlocked, at least until baby becomes a curious toddler.
Clever design + super hygienic + great value = one of the best pails out there.
Pros: Value; Hands-free (foot-pedal operation); Three sizes and three colors; Bag changes are a non-event thanks to the design which features a seemingly endless garbage bag that you just cut to size with the cutter that’s inside the bin; Holds about 50 newborn diapers; Includes an optional lock to ward off curious toddlers
Cons: Works with custom Dekor refill bags, but those are expensive, and, for what it’s worth, we’ve heard of some moms using their own garbage bags without much trouble
Munchkin paired up with Arm & Hammer on a pail that uses lavender-scented baking soda to help combat odors. Not sure the lavender smell really comes through, but who cares because this thing traps the odors just fine, probably thanks to its self-sealing mechanism which twists the bag shut as the lid closes. Also, Munchkin plants a tree for every diaper pail purchased.
Pros: Hygienic hands-free mechanism with foot pedal; Combo of baking soda and self-sealing bags control odor well
Cons: Uses custom refill bags and (optional) baking soda cartridges; Bag change process takes some getting used to; Opening is small
