Pampers Baby Dry Vs Swaddlers

Trying to decide between Pampers Baby Dry vs Swaddlers diapers?

Then let us help with our Pampers Swaddlers vs Baby Dry review.

All parents want to know they’ve made the right diaper decision. Good diapers can provide comfort and minimize leaks, leading to happy babies and happy parents.

But bad diapers won’t fit, won’t stop leaks, and just won’t work. The problem is that when you’re trying to buy diapers, it can be very hard to tell which is which!

Pampers are one of the biggest names in baby care, and their diapers have been family favorites for decades.

Pampers Swaddlers and Baby Dry are two incredibly popular diaper ranges, and many parents will find themselves trying to choose between the two.

To make your decision easier, we’ve put together this complete guide.

In this review, we’ve identified the features of each diaper, as well as the benefits and disadvantages so you can easily decide which is the best diaper for you and your baby.

And if you love this guide on Swaddlers vs Baby Dry, make sure to check out our guides on Huggies vs Pampers, Hello Bello vs Pampers, and Huggies Little Movers vs Pampers Cruisers. Or even this review on Pampers Baby Dry Vs Cruisers.

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Pampers Baby Dry Vs Swaddlers

Pampers Swaddlers and Baby Dry are two top choices among new parents. Before we see how they compare, we’ll take a look at them on their own, and consider what makes these diapers stand out. 

Let’s dive right in.

All About Pampers Swaddlers

Pampers Swaddlers are diapers designed for the comfort of newborn and young babies, with an emphasis on soft materials for delicate skin.

Softness might be the biggest factor in the appeal of the Swaddlers, but it isn’t the only thing for parents to consider. 

To begin, let’s look at the sizes that the Pampers Swaddlers are available in. Swaddlers are available in an incredible size range, from Newborn to Size 7.

That means these diapers can fit babies that are under 10 pounds, all the way to over 41 pounds. Parents can keep their baby in Swaddlers from birth to potty training!

There are many advantages to the larger size range, but a big one is consistency. Once you’ve found a diaper that works, it’s frustrating to have to change because your baby has grown out of the sizes offered.

This can be an even bigger issue if your little one has sensitive skin, as having to switch brands can result in redness and discomfort.

With the Pampers Swaddler, this doesn’t have to be a worry. If you’re happy with the diapers, you can keep on moving through the sizes until your child is ready for something different.

Pampers claim that Swaddlers are their “softest diaper ever”, made with ultra-soft absorbent layers that are kind to delicate baby skin.

We think you really can feel the difference with these diapers. Pampers have clearly put great care into construction, ensuring every part of the diaper is going to be gentle for your baby.

From the liner to the sides, the materials of Swaddlers provide touchable comfort.

To increase this comfort, Pampers Swaddlers are made with soft Flexi-Sides. These are able to move and stretch with your baby, while maintaining a tight fit.

This has several benefits, the first being that the better the fit, the less risk of leaks. Flexi-Sides also add to the long use of the Swaddlers.

Because the fit is flexible, the diapers will move with your baby, reducing leaks when they start to wiggle and crawl. 

Overall, the fit of Pampers Swaddlers is exceptional. Parents have found that the Flexi-Sides help the diapers fit different body shapes, making Swaddlers useful for many babies.

They also don’t droop as much as other diapers, even when wet. Of course, no diaper will have the perfect fit for every baby.

However, the versatility of the Swaddlers makes them a good starting place for new parents!

Newborn sizes of the Pampers Swaddlers come with an umbilical cord notch.

This contouring at the front of the diaper keeps the material away from healing belly buttons, and umbilical cord stumps. This is more comfortable for the baby, and more hygienic. 

For absorbency, Pampers Swaddlers use LockAway channels and a BreatheFree liner, We were very impressed with the performance of the BreatheFree liner, which quickly wicks away moisture.

Not only does this reduce leaks, it also keeps your baby’s skin drier and healthier.

The liner combines comfort and absorbency for a performance that appeals to both parent and child. LockAway channels work with the liner to keep mess inside the diaper.

Swaddlers increase leak protection by using dual Leak-Guard barriers. These barriers are contoured around the leg cuff, which is an area prone to leaking.

As with the rest of the diaper, they’re made with a soft material to prevent discomfort. Combined with the flexible sides, the Swaddlers use a close fit to ensure as few leaks as possible. 

One final touch from Pampers is the Wetness Indicator. This is a colored strip on the front of the diaper that changes color when wet.

This can take some of the messy guesswork out of changes, and is a useful addition to the diaper.

Pampers Swaddlers contain no parabens or natural rubber latex. Swaddlers are dermatologically tested and hypoallergenic.

They’ve also been reviewed by the Skin Health Alliance, and accredited as Skin Safe. This can provide parents with extra peace of mind.

However, there are some issues with the Pampers Swaddlers. These diapers are primarily designed for newborns.

As your baby gets older, and begins to crawl and walk, the Pampers Swaddlers might not have the contoured fit you need.

And while the absorbency level is excellent for newborns, heavy wetters and older children might be let down. 

Pros

• Soft and hypoallergenic materials make Swaddlers ideal for newborns and babies with sensitive skin.
• Umbilical cord notch helps belly buttons heal safely and comfortably.
• BreatheFree liner wicks away moisture quickly to keep skin dry.
• Soft Flexi-Sides improve fit to reduce leaks and help Swaddlers appeal to more parents.
• Recommended by pediatricians, and accredited as Skin Safe by the Skin Health Alliance.

Cons

• While the flexible fit works well for newborns, parents have found the Swaddlers aren’t so good for older babies.
• The side fasteners can break when your baby starts to crawl and walk. 

All About Pampers Baby Dry

Pampers Baby Dry diapers are designed for dry nights and happy mornings, using impressive absorbency and strong materials to keep moisture locked away.

Although leak protection is crucial, it isn’t the only feature of the Baby Dry diapers for parents to think about. 

In terms of sizes, Pampers Baby Dry are available from Newborn to Size 6. This is a pretty impressive range, as it covers under 10 pounds to over 35 pounds.

For many babies, the Pampers Baby Dry diaper can be used from birth until they’re almost ready for potty training. However, it is a shame that Pampers Baby Dry aren’t available in Size 7, for older children. 

Dryness is the focus of the Pampers Baby Dry. Three absorbent layers draw moisture quickly away from the skin, while the stretchy fit prevents gaps that can lead to leaks. Pampers Baby Dry diapers use a Dri-Weave liner.

This isn’t quite as soft as the BreatheFree liner used in the Swaddlers, but the firm build improves durability.

The speedy moisture wicking also helps to keep the skin dry, which is better for the health of your baby.

Fit is key to the performance of the Baby Dry diapers. The super stretchy sides allow parents to create a snug fit, preventing both leaks and blow outs. We were very impressed with the Baby Dry fit.

The stretchy sides meant there was a versatile fit, although the slightly stiff finish of the diaper did detract from this slightly.

As with the Swaddlers, no diaper will be right for every baby. The firm material used for Baby Dry diapers can affect how the leg cuffs and waist sit on some body types.

But it isn’t just the fit that improves the leak protection of Pampers Baby Dry diapers. LockAway channels within the material are used to keep mess in the diaper for longer.

Baby Dry diapers are also equipped with dual Leak-Guard barriers. Wrapping around the leg cuffs, these barriers stop leaks where they happen most. 

Pampers do use wetness indicators on the Baby Dry diapers, but they’re only available on sizes Newborn, 1, and 2.

Although the lack of wetness indicator isn’t a huge problem, it would have been a nice addition to the larger sizes. Especially as Pampers have used the wetness indicator on all of the Swaddlers range. 

Baby Dry diapers are designed for a large age range, but we think they work best for older babies, who are starting to move around.

Large tape fasteners help create a secure fit that remains comfortable. As your baby starts to move and crawl, these fasteners are strong enough to stay in place.

You shouldn’t wake up to a mess from a diaper that broke free during the night. Although with babies, there are no guarantees!

Baby Dry diapers are versatile, suitable for use both during the day and overnight. We particularly like them for nighttime use.

The durable material, stretchy sides, and strong fasteners keep them performing for up to 12 hours, so parents don’t have to worry about what they’ll wake up to.

For daytime use, we appreciate how the powerful fasteners are helpful for little adventurers.

When your baby starts to crawl and climb, the Baby Dry diapers can keep up. However, the slightly firmer build that increases absorbency and durability can affect the flexible fit.

While the Baby Dry diapers are stiffer than Swaddlers, they’re still very soft. They feel like cotton, and should be gentle against the delicate skin of a newborn.

They’re also highly breathable. During the night, air will be able to circulate around the diaper, stopping moisture from sitting on the skin.

Not only does this feel more comfortable, but it’s also healthier. 

Pampers Baby Dry diapers are dermatologically tested and hypoallergenic. They are also free from parabens and latex. Parents should feel happy using the Pampers Baby Dry diapers on their children. 

The biggest issue with the Pampers Baby Dry diapers is a lack of softness. The diapers seemed comfortable, but the priority is definitely function.

For some parents, this is unlikely to cause any problems. However, if your baby has particularly sensitive skin, they might find the firmer Baby Dry diaper to be a little uncomfortable. 

Baby Dry diapers are intended to keep your baby dry overnight, preventing leaks for up to 12 hours.

Because of this, they lack some of the special features of other Pampers diapers. This isn’t exactly an issue, as we’ve found the Baby Dry diapers do get the job done.

But if increased softness or better movement is important to you, then the Baby Dry diapers won’t be right. 

Pros

• 12-hour leak protection allows parents to use the Baby Dry diapers during the day or overnight.
• Improved breathability keeps air circulating, keeping skin drier and healthier. 
• All-around stretchy sides create a snug fit for reduced mess.
• Large tape fasteners provide a secure fit that won’t slip loose with movement.
• Dri-Weave liner wicks away moisture quickly to keep skin dry.

Cons

• Cotton soft, but lacks the gentle touch of the Swaddlers.
• Firmer materials can make the fit difficult for some babies.

Pampers Swaddlers Vs Baby Dry

Having considered the individual merits of the diapers, it’s time to take a look at how Pampers Swaddlers and Baby Dry compare.

Below, we’ll look at the similarities and differences that parents should consider when choosing their disposable diaper. 

What Are The Similarities Between pampers baby dry vs pampers swaddlers?

Baby Dry and Swaddlers diapers are both made by Pampers, and both designed to offer absorbent support for babies.

Let’s take a look at the similarities, to see what kind of performance you can expect from these diapers.

Brand

Let’s start with the obvious: both Baby Dry and Swaddlers are made by the diaper brand, Pampers. Because of this, we can expect more than a few similarities when it comes to materials and build.

Pampers are also a recognized brand, and one that’s been popular with parents for decades. When you buy a Pampers diaper, you can expect some degree of quality.

As both diapers are Pampers, they’re also easy to find in stores and online. Busy parents should be able to find their preferred diapers for sale.

Very reassuring when you’re running low, and don’t have the time to search for specialized brands!

Ease Of Use

Diaper changes should be quick, easy, and as stress-free as possible. Both Baby Dry and Swaddlers diapers are simple to use, so even first-time parents can get to grips with them in no time at all.

Stretchy sides make it easier than ever to get the fit right, while the strong fasteners keep everything in place.

You might not ever look forward to a diaper change, but at least with these designs you know it will be over as quickly as possible.

Hypoallergenic

Parents want to be sure that they’re only putting safe and comfortable materials next to their baby’s delicate skin, especially to help avoid a nasty diaper rash.

Both the Pampers Baby Dry and Swaddlers diapers have been tested by dermatologists, and declared hypoallergenic. They’re also both free of parabens and natural rubber latex making them gentle on your babys skin. 

However, only the Pampers Swaddlers have been tested and recognized as Skin Safe by the Skin Health Alliance.

If your child has particularly sensitive skin, you may prefer the added reassurance of the Swaddlers or even opting for the Pampers Pure range.

Fit

We were impressed with the fit of both the Pampers Swaddlers and the Baby Dry diapers. Stretchy sides and a contoured leg cuff help to create a snug fit that doesn’t feel tight.

We’ve also found that both diapers have minimal drooping, even when wet. Baby Dry diapers do have stretchier sides, but they also use a stiffer material.

Because of this, we consider the fit of both diaper ranges to be equal.

Fit is highly subjective, and what’s perfect for one baby might be all wrong for another.

When choosing a diaper, focus less on the suggested age range, and more on the actual fit. Check the leg cuffs, waistband, and the height at the front of the diaper. 

Sizing

Although Pampers Swaddlers does have a slightly larger size range, we’re happy with what’s offered by Baby Dry.

Both diapers are available in newborn sizes, and while the Baby Dry diapers go up to Size 6, Swaddlers are also sold in a Size 7.

This means you can use these diapers for younger babies all the way through to potty training. Despite the slightly reduced age range of the Baby Dry diapers, many parents will find these are still suitable as their baby grows. 

Dual Leak-Guard Barriers And Leak Protection

We were impressed with the leak protection of both the Swaddlers and the Baby Dry diapers. A key part of this is the dual Leak-Guard barriers.

Used on the leg cuffs, they form a barrier in the area where most leaks occur. The ruffled guards feel soft, and improve the fit where it’s most important.

Fit is another part of the leak protection that we were happy with on both diapers. Flexible sides are an important part of both designs, as they allow parents to fit the diaper securely.

Pampers have also equipped both ranges with LockAway channels. Once moisture has been absorbed, the LockAway channels keep it in the diaper.

Together, these features keep the skin dry, and the mess contained. So, parents and baby will both be happy!

However, if you find that your child is a heavy wetter, especially at night, you may want to check out the Pampers Swaddlers Overnights range for added absorbency.

Character Design

To add a touch of fun to changing time, pampers have decorated their diapers with fun characters.

This may not exactly aid performance, but it is a nice addition. Plus, changing time can be slightly easier when you have a playful character to distract your little one with.

We like the designs on both the Swaddlers and the Baby Dry diapers, so you’ll have to decide on your own favorite baby diaper design!

Fragrance

Pampers appears to use fragrance with both the Swaddlers and the Baby Dry diapers. This is a light scent, designed to subtly mask the smell of a used diaper, without irritating the baby. 

This can be a pro or a con, depending on your preference. The fragrance does help cover the undeniably bad smells that we associate with diapers.

Although nothing will ever completely disguise a bad diaper smell, the fragrance can make using the diapers a slightly more pleasant experience.

However, some parents prefer fragrance free diapers, as these are better for sensitive skin.

Fragrances can cause irritation, even light fragrances. As both Baby Dry and Swaddlers use fragrance, it’s up to you whether this is a benefit or a disadvantage. 

Materials And Eco-Friendliness

Pampers use similar materials for both the Swaddlers and Baby Dry range. Neither range is plant based, nor are the diapers biodegradable.

This is fairly standard practice for disposable diapers, but something for parents to keep in mind. Pampers do sell a diaper range with plant based materials: the Pure Protection Range. 

Price

Considered overall, there is very little price difference between Swaddlers and Baby Dry diapers.

While there are minor price differences among the sizes, we’ve found that we can expect to pay a similar price, whichever diaper we preferred.

Swaddlers and Baby Dry diapers are both mid-range. They aren’t budget choices, but they’re less expensive than the premium brands.

Parents working with a budget might want to consider both Baby Dry and Swaddlers at different sizes, to see which is right for them.  

You can also save 20% of Pampers when you sign up to a diaper subscription with Amazon Family.

What Are The Differences Between pampers swaddlers vs pampers baby dry?

While the similarities help us to understand the overall benefits and disadvantages of the diapers, it’s the differences that will make the decision for many parents.

So, let’s take a look at what the differences are, and how they’ll affect your choice.

Day And Night Use

Baby Dry diapers are primarily designed to be an overnight diaper, offering up to 12 hours of leak protection.

Flexible enough for use during the day, the versatility of these diapers is fantastic.

We were happy to use them overnight, and never worried about what sort of mess we might wake up to.

The occasional issue is to be expected, but for the most part, the Baby Dry diapers were up to the task.

Pampers Swaddlers, on the other hand, were better for use during the day. Although the leak protection is impressive, we weren’t sure it was good enough to last for a full night.

Particularly with an older child, or a heavy wetter. But this isn’t true for all parents! Some will find the Swaddlers have the absorbency and leak protection to perform overnight.

Age Range

We found one of the main differences between Baby Dry and Swaddlers diapers was the age range they were best suited for.

The soft and gentle finish of the Swaddlers diapers made them perfect for newborns. Just handling the diapers, you could feel how much of the focus was on comfort.

Using the BreatheFree liner to wick moisture and keep it in the LockAway channels, the Swaddlers seemed designed for newborns.

Baby Dry diapers, on the other hand, were better for older babies, who were starting to move more.

Although soft, the Baby Dry diaper isn’t quite as gentle as the Swaddlers. But it is robust, and the strong fasteners kept the diaper in place even through walking and exploring.

We would use the Baby Dry diapers for a newborn, but we’d probably reach for the Swaddlers first. 

Because of this, it seems strange that the Baby Dry diapers don’t go up to a Size 7. Swaddlers definitely seemed like diapers for newborns, while the Baby Dry range is more versatile. 

Softness

Softness is the main selling point of the Swaddlers, so you’d expect it to come out on top.

These are marketed as Pampers’ softest diapers ever, and they even describe the Swaddlers as “blankie soft”.

We can feel the difference with our hands, so we imagine your little one will appreciate the comfort! For babies with particularly sensitive skin, the Swaddlers’ softness is a big plus.

It isn’t that the Baby Dry diapers are rough, they just aren’t quite as soft as the Swaddlers. The cotton soft finish is pleasant, and most babies will be happy with the way the diapers feel.

However, they do use a slightly firmer material. This does have some benefits (such as absorbency, which we’ll cover below).

But it also means some sacrifices, and the ultra-soft finish is one such sacrifice. 

Absorbency

Swaddlers might have superior softness, but it’s Baby Dry diapers that win when it comes to absorbency. We’ve found that they were able to hold more liquid overall, and stopped leaks for longer.

Baby Dry diapers use three layers of absorbency to effectively pull moisture away from the skin.

The Dri-Weave liner worked quickly, and the LockAway channels kept the liquid in. The extra stretchy sides also helped to create a better fit, so less moisture could leak out.

Swaddlers did absorb well, just not quite as well as the Baby Dry diapers.

This is another reason we think that Swaddlers appeal to newborns, while Baby Dry is better for older kids. 

Umbilical Cord Notch

Another reason we’d consider the Swaddlers to be better for newborns is that the smallest size comes with an umbilical cord notch.

A small section at the front of the diaper, the umbilical cord notch allows the belly button to heal safely.

This is more comfortable for the baby, and more hygienic. The Baby Dry diapers don’t come with an umbilical cord notch.

As we prefer the Baby Dry diapers for older babies, the lack of umbilical cord notch isn’t really a massive disadvantage.

However, considering the range is sold in newborn sizes, it would be good to see it included. 

Fasteners

Baby Dry diapers have large tape fasteners to keep the diaper secure overnight. These fasteners are excellent, holding the diaper secure even when the baby has a restless night.

During the day, the fasteners work just as hard, allowing kids the freedom to explore, without the worry of a lost diaper.

The fasteners on the Swaddlers are good, but they aren’t as impressive as the Baby Dry fasteners.

We were confident they would perform for a baby under 6 months. But once your little one is up and about, we’re not sure if they could keep up. 

Wetness Indicator

A small strip on the front of the diaper, the wetness indicator changes color as it becomes damp.

This helps take out the messy guesswork, and can be useful in many circumstances.

Some parents find the wetness indicator useful for newborns, as you can’t always see if a diaper is filled just by looking.

The Swaddlers and Baby Dry diapers both use wetness indicators. However, it’s only found on sizes N, 1, and 2 of the Baby Dry diapers.

This isn’t a massive problem, and many parents won’t notice that it’s missing.

However, it’s a shame to lose this feature, especially as it can be very helpful, and is easily integrated into the Baby Dry design.

Hopefully, Pampers will consider introducing the wetness indicator across the range. 

Liners

We have covered some of the differences in liners previously, but it’s worth noting again.

Pampers Swaddlers use a BreatheFree liner, which is designed to be incredibly soft and to wick away moisture.

The Baby Dry diapers have a Dri-Weave liner, which absorbs moisture quickly into the LockAway channels.

Both liners are made using similar materials, but the BreatheFree liner has a higher focus on softness, while the Dri-Weave liner is all about absorption.

We mention this because it really sums up the differences between the diapers. 

Which Is Better: Pampers Swaddlers Or Baby Dry?

Having covered the similarities and differences, we hope you can see exactly how these two diapers stand apart.

We were impressed with the performance of both the Pampers Baby Dry and Swaddlers diapers, even if we think they shone in different areas.

The Swaddlers diapers are some of the best on the market for newborns, particularly at the mid-point price range.

They really are Pampers’ softest diapers, and they feel thick and comfortable. The BreatheFree liner worked quickly to wick away moisture so it didn’t sit on the skin, and the top layer was perfectly cushioned. 

There are a few other features that make the Swaddlers best for newborns. The umbilical cord notch is a nice touch, as the lack of contact between diaper and belly button allowed for safe healing.

The flexible sides gave a snug fit without constricting, and the cushioned shape meant the diaper was suitable for many body shapes. 

We also liked that while both diapers were hypoallergenic, the Swaddlers were certified by the Skin Health Alliance.

It meant that we felt that little bit safer using these diapers against sensitive newborn skin.

However, there are some issues with the Swaddlers. They’re built for softness, which means they lack some absorbency and strength.

For newborns, this is unlikely to be a real problem. However, moms might find that older babies end up leaving the Swaddlers behind.

Which is why we prefer the Baby Dry diapers for older babies. The absorbency is excellent, outperforming the Swaddlers.

And while the leak protection is good from both ranges, the Baby Dry diapers can keep everything drier for longer. 

The stretchy sides of the Baby Dry diapers help parents create close fit, minimizing leaks without causing discomfort.

Even on fussy nights, you can expect the Baby Dry diaper to stay in place.

During the day, the secure fasteners prevent the diaper from coming loose as the baby moves, which is another reason they’re better past the 6-month stage. 

Baby Dry does lack the softness of the Swaddlers, which is why it’s less preferable for those early months.

There are also a few features that are included with the Swaddlers but missing from Baby Dry diapers, such as the umbilical cord notch.

It’s good that some of the Baby Dry diapers feature a wetness indicator, but we don’t understand why it’s left off the larger sizes. It’s also a shame that the Baby Dry diapers don’t go up to Size 7. 

Overall, our favorite diapers are the Pampers Swaddlers. They really are that soft!

And although the Swaddlers don’t absorb quite as much as the Baby Dry diapers, they still perform exceptionally well in this area.

We also like the little touches of the Swaddlers, which have been overlooked in the Baby Dry design.

Final Thoughts on pamper swaddlers vs baby dry

Having considered all the pros and cons of both diapers in our Pampers Swaddlers and Pampers Baby Dry review, we think both diaper ranges are a great option.

However, if we had to choose between them, we would choose Pampers Swaddlers based on their softness and comfort, especially for newborns.

We hope this guide has been helpful in helping you decide which brand is best for you and your baby.

And if you’re looking for more great guides, then check out these diapering guides on buying diapers for baby shower, best overnight diapers, must have diaper caddy essentials, and best diapers to prevent blowouts.