Nappy leaks are one of the most frustrating aspects of early parenting — and one of the most common causes is simply wearing the wrong size. Here's how to know when it's time to move up.
Key Signs It's Time to Size Up
- Frequent leaks, especially around the thighs or waist
- Red marks or indentations around the thighs or tummy when you remove the nappy
- The tabs barely reach the landing zone — or don't reach it at all
- The nappy looks small or rides up significantly
- The leg cuffs are consistently escaping inside rather than lying flat
Weight Guidelines by Brand (Singapore Market)
| Brand | NB | S | M | L | XL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Merries | Up to 5kg | 4–8kg | 6–11kg | 9–14kg | 12–17kg |
| Pampers | Up to 5kg | 4–8kg | 6–10kg | 9–14kg | 12–17kg |
| Huggies | Up to 5kg | 3–7kg | 6–10kg | 9–14kg | 12–17kg |
| Drypers | Up to 5kg | 3–7kg | 5–9kg | 8–13kg | 12–16kg |
Sizing Varies by Brand
A size M in one brand may fit differently than a size M in another. Weight ranges overlap significantly between sizes. If a size M from one brand is leaking but your baby is still within the weight range, try a different brand's M before sizing up — sometimes the cut varies significantly.
Night Nappies
For overnight, many parents size up by one — a baby who wears a size M during the day wears a size L at night. This provides extra absorbency for the longer sleep stretch without needing to change. Overnight nappies (specific products from Merries, Pampers, Huggies) have extra absorbent cores and are worth the premium.
Tip
Check the fit at nappy changes by running two fingers around the leg cuffs and waist. If you can barely fit two fingers, it's snug. If you can fit three easily, it's too loose.