Disposable diapers are made from common materials that have a long history of safe use in a variety of everyday consumer products. An average diaper weighs between 1.4 and 1.8 ounces and is primarily made of cellulose, polypropylene, polyethylene and a super absorbent polymer, as well as minor amounts of tapes, elastics and adhesive materials. Advances in each of these materials have enabled diapers to become lighter, thinner and more effective – with less of an impact on the environment.
Since becoming broadly available in the 1960s, disposable diapers have gone through a number of changes in materials used or diaper construction to improve their performance, fit, and skin comfort. In recent years these advances have also reduced diapers’ environmental impact.
- Learn more about: Parts of a Diaper
- Learn more about: Innovative Materials & Design
- Learn more about: Diaper Safety & Health