When your newborn arrives you run around getting so many baby things from onesies to diapers. But what do you do with dirty diapers?
A diaper genie is a popular choice for many new moms and I certainly know why. But with all the expenses, it’s hard not to ask, “Is diaper genie worth it?” Well, keep reading as I answer that question in this article.
What Is A Diaper Genie?
A diaper genie is a type of trash can that is specifically designed to hold baby diapers. There are certain features of the diaper genie that make it a preferred and more suitable alternative to holding dirty diapers.
One of such is the specially designed trashbag that is used for the diaper genie refills. It features a certain number of diaper pail bags which are extremely durable.
The diaper genie typically features an auto closing mouth which locks almost immediately after you dispose of a soiled diaper into the can. Some diaper genies feature a carbon filtration system to further block out all odour from escaping.
Who Is It For?
These diaper genies are for parents who would rather keep a diaper changing pail next to them than run to the kitchen trash can every time they get a stench from the soiled diapers. Most parents–myself included–agree that it offers maximum convenience.
Believe it or not, a baby goes through 2,500 to 3,000 diapers in just their first year. That’s a lot of diaper changes and a lot of runs to the kitchen trash can at least unless you get yourself a diaper genie.
How Does It Work?
A diaper genie typically comes assembled and with a manual to direct you on its use. Even if the instructions were to go missing, the sleek design will allow you to figure out the proper way to use it on your own.
The diaper genie will feature a foot pedal or button to close and open the lid (depending on your model). The “lid” clamps and twists in a way that blocks out any smell from coming out of the diaper genie.
It takes a while for the diaper genie to get full and once it does, all you have to do is take out the bag, tie it into a knot and throw it out. You can expect it to be a little heavy though but it gets the job done.
How Many Bags Are In A Diaper Genie Refill?
A diaper genie refill is one long trash bag that holds up to 270 diapers. You make use of it by knotting the accessible end.
Once the knot is full, you cut the bag and knot the other end to seal off the dirty diapers which you can then throw away. After which, you knot the accessible end and repeat the process until the whole bag is used up.
How Many Diapers Does It Hold?
The manufacturers of a diaper genie state that it holds 270 newborn diapers. I’ve found that this depends on how much material you cut from the bags when tying the knots and whether you really smash the soiled diapers into the bag.
Note that the manufacturer says its holds 270 “newborn” diapers. Those are the smallest diapers in the market so you shouldn’t be surprised if a larger sized diaper takes up more space in the diaper bag refill.
Is A Diaper Genie Necessary?
A diaper genie does exactly what it is designed to and very well, if I might add. So, we can say that it is worth it. However, it may not be a necessity, at least depending on your needs.
So, let’s look at some pros and cons of diaper bags to see if you may find it worth your investments.
Pros
A diaper genie keeps your nursery smelling fresh since it blocks out all the bad smell from the dirty diapers.
- It prevents you from constantly running around to take out the trash since it holds a good number of diapers in with no smell.
- The smell caused by diapers in a kitchen trash can may pose a health hazard since it is where your food is cooked.
- Some diaper genies feature childlock systems to prevent kids from opening it and dipping their hands into it.
Cons
- Occasionally a diaper genie may absorb the stink from dirty diapers and begin to smell. Although frequent emptying and cleaning should solve this.
What Is The Cost Of A Diaper Genie And Bag Refills?
The cost of a diaper genie varies depending on your location and the model. You can expect a diaper genie complete cost to start at $40 while expressions at about $25.
As for the bag refills, a package of 3 usually costs about $20 depending on where you get them. Refill bags are available in original or Clean Laundry scents. In both refill options, there is a patented 7-layer bag system that reduces odors and resists tearing.
Finding The Right Diaper Genie For You
There are two major options when it comes to diaper genies. I personally preferred the Diaper Genie Complete but you can consider the features of each before settling on yours.
Diaper Genie Complete Diaper Pail
- Dimensions: 12.06″L x 9.38″W x 27″H
- Capacity: 36 newborn diapers
- Color: white
Diaper Genie Expressions Pail
- Dimensions: 11 x 22.5 x 11 inches
- Capcity: 50 newborn diapers
- Color: white
What Can I Use Instead Of A Diaper Genie?
The diaper genie is in fact a brand name for diaper disposal systems, of which there are many others. So, we’ll be looking at some alternative brands and how they compare to the diaper genie.
Ubbi Diaper Pail
The Ubbi Diaper Pail offers better odour protection as it is constructed from steel. It also features a sliding rid to reduce air disprubtion as well as minimuze odors.
This particular pail features child lock safety to keep those little hands out of the canister. One thing I like is the fact that the pail comes in various designs and patterns in order to suit your nursery.
This pail has an inner ring that can be used with any trash bag. This ends up saving you some money in the long run. The cost of the Ubbi Diaper Pail varies between $69.99 and $99.99 on amazon.
Munchkin Step Diaper Pail
The Munchkin Step Diaper Pail stands up to rigorous diaper demand as it is a large and heavy duty model.Just as the name implies, this diaper pail is foot operated–that means the lid is opened by a foot panel at the bottom. It features two types of bag refills: the ring style and the snap, seal and toss style.
The scented snap, seal and toss refills are individual bags which hold up to 30 newborn diapers. There’s about 20 in a count for these bags and they cost about $20. The diaper pail itself costs about $67.95 on Amazon.
Skip Hop Diaper Pail With Dual Air-Lock
The Skip Hop Diaper Pail comes witb some unique features that other diaper disposable cans lack. One of which is easily visible and that is caddy on top for holding some baby changing necessities.
This diaper pail has an outer lid that you open to dispose of soiled diapers and as soon as you close it, the inner door opens and the diaper falls into the trash bag below. This prevents odour from creeping up into the room.
It uses any trash bag and is made of steel for durability. The only disadvantage is that you cannot fill the can completely due to the space the inner door takes up.
The Skip Hop Diaper Pail with Dual Air-Lock costs about $59.99 on Amazon.
Conclusion
A diaper genie does a great job of keeping the odor out while it stores up dirty diapers for up to 2 weeks. You wont have to constantly run out to take out the trash. It gives you that spare time every new parent craves.
However, if you can have the time, you can take out the diapers in a regular trash can. For this reason I consider the diaper genie worth it as it serves its purpose but not just a necessity.
Do you use a diaper genie? And would you advise a new parent to get one? Let me know your answers in the comments below. I’d love to hear them.
FAQ
How Often Do You Empty A Diaper Genie?
Depending on your model, you may only need to empty a diaper genie once every 1-2 weeks. This is much better compared to the 1-2 day runs you’d have to make with a kitchen trashcan.
How Long Does A Diaper Genie Last?
Your diaper genie should last until when you potty train your little one as long as you properly maintain it.
How Do I Keep My Diaper Genie From Smelling?
As I earlier said, make sure to empty it frequently and clean the diaper pail thoroughly at regular intervals.
Can I Use Regular Bags For A Diaper Genie?
Due to the design, you cannot use a regular trash bag for a diaper genie. You’ll have to get the diaper genie refills.