We use cookies to allow us and selected partners to improve your experience and our advertising. By continuing to browse you consent to our use of cookies. You can understand more and change your cookies preferences here.
When you click on a retailer link on our site, we may earn affiliate commission to help fund our not-for-profit mission.Find out more.
Disposable nappies are made up of multiple layers, each containing different materials.
There are typically three main layers - a topsheet, a backsheet and an absorbent core that's sandwiched between them.
Find out what these layers do, as well as what claims such as chlorine-free and fragrance-free actually mean, plus whether disposable nappies can be recyclable.
Read our nappy reviews to find the best disposable nappies.
The topsheet is the soft inner layer of the nappy that sits against your baby's skin, and it's usually made of polypropylene.
It's designed to draw moisture inside the nappy, helping to keep your little one's skin dry. Some topsheets also contain lotion to help reduce irritation and nappy rash.
The core of a nappy typically contains a mix of cellulose fluff pulp and sodium polyacrylate.
Cellulose pulp quickly absorbs liquid and distributes it across the nappy. If you're after a more eco-friendly nappy, look out for brands that use pulp harvested from sustainably managed forests.
Sodium polyacrylate is a super absorbent polymer that can absorb many times its own weight in fluid. It turns liquid to a gel, locking moisture away.
Our lab tests measure leakage from a weighed down, fully fluid-loaded nappy to see how well it holds wetness inside. Find out more about how we test nappies.
The backsheet is the outer shell of the nappy which prevents liquid from leaking out onto your baby's clothes.
It's usually made of polyethylene which is water-repellent. Some nappies also have a layer of breathable film to make it more comfortable.
While most disposable nappies are recyclable, the UK doesn't currently have the facilities to process them in the right way. This means most disposable nappies will end up in landfill.
If you're looking for a more environmentally friendly option, it could be worth considering reusable nappies.
Read our reusable buying guide to find out more about the different types of reusable nappy and their pros and cons.