Baby diapers are one of the highest-loyalty products in retail. That's why distributors increasingly launch their own diaper brands instead of reselling A-brands at thin margins. Here's how the OEM process works, and what to specify.
Diaper Anatomy: The Layers You're Buying
- Topsheet — soft non-woven against the skin; moves liquid downward
- Acquisition/distribution layer — spreads liquid so it doesn't pool
- Absorbent core — fluff pulp + superabsorbent polymer (SAP); the SAP ratio drives absorbency and thinness
- Backsheet — breathable PE film laminated with cloth-like non-woven
- Closures — elastic waistband, magic-tape or hook tabs, leg cuffs
When comparing quotes, the core is where costs differ: SAP content, core weight, and whether the core is channeled. Two diapers of identical size can differ 20–30% through the core alone.
Size Chart and Assortment
| Size | Approx. Weight | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| NB | up to ~5 kg | Umbilical cut-out is a selling point |
| S | 4–8 kg | Highest rotation with M |
| M | 6–11 kg | Core volume driver |
| L | 9–14 kg | — |
| XL / XXL | 12 kg + | Pant style dominates from L upward in many markets |
Quality Specifications to Put in the Contract
Ask the factory to commit numbers, not adjectives: total absorbency (g), rewet (g, lower is better), leakage performance, contact-layer pH, and moisture content. Reputable factories provide third-party reports (SGS, Intertek). For skin safety, look for OEKO-TEX certified materials; for management systems, ISO 9001 at minimum.
The OEM Process, Step by Step
- Positioning — tier, target shelf price, market regulations
- Sampling — factory sends existing-spec samples; you adjust core weight, topsheet softness, print
- Testing — lab reports on the agreed spec
- Artwork — bag and carton design
- Pilot production + pre-shipment inspection against the signed spec
- Reorder — packaging film MOQs decide reorder flexibility, so agree film stock terms early
Typical first-order MOQ is one 40ft container (often mixable across sizes), because printed packaging film is produced per brand.
FAQ
Can I mix sizes in one container? Yes — size assortment within one brand is standard.
Do diapers need CE marking? Diapers are general consumer hygiene products, not medical devices, in most markets — but chemical-safety and labeling rules still apply.
Lead time? First orders roughly 45–60 days from artwork confirmation; repeats are faster.
Thinking about your own diaper brand? Send your target retail price and market and we'll propose a spec, packaging concept and container plan.