As a new parent, the joy of welcoming your little one into this world also comes with a not-so-pleasant side: diaper duty. It’s an inevitable part of the parenting experience, yet no one enjoys dealing with foul-smelling diapers. Finding an efficient and odor-free solution to store used diapers can be quite challenging. While there exists specialized diaper pails in the market, some parents may wonder, “Can I just use a regular trash can for diapers?”
Can You Use a Regular Trash Can for Diapers?
Most people use regular trash cans for disposing of baby diapers. Though not designed specifically for disposing of diapers, many trash cans come with features (such as hands-free operation and odor control) that make them suitable for this purpose.
Regular trash cans can help save space, money, and reduce overall hassle. You can easily maintain a clean and fresh-smelling home without the need for an exclusive diaper pail.
Tip: It is best to individually bag each diaper before placing it in a regular trash can. This not only contains the odor but also minimizes contact with other trash.
Another alternative is using disposable diaper bags or dog poop bags. Both are designed to keep odors contained and are easy to dispose of.
Wet bags are also a great, reusable option, as they can seal items inside to prevent smells from escaping. [1]
Differences between a Diaper Pail & a Trash Can
A diaper pail and a trash can may seem similar in function, but there are some key differences between the two.
Diaper pails are specifically designed for the disposal of dirty diapers, while trash cans are meant for general waste.
One major difference is that diaper pails are more durable and less likely to tip over if a child tries to climb on them. They also have tightly sealing lids to contain odors, which is crucial for keeping the room smelling fresh.
Another difference is the size and capacity. Diaper pails are usually taller and narrower, allowing them to hold multiple diapers at once. They also have liners or bags that can be easily changed without touching the dirty diapers.
Trash cans, on the other hand, are smaller and often require more frequent emptying.
In terms of cost, diaper pails are generally more expensive than trash cans. However, they come with features like odor control mechanisms and child locks, which make them a more convenient and hygienic option for diaper disposal. [2]
How Do You Keep Diapers from Smelling in the Trash Can?
1- One effective way to keep diapers from smelling in the trash can is to use baking soda. Sprinkling baking soda inside the trash bag of the trash can or creating baking soda disks can be effective in combating odor.
It is advisable to replace the baking soda once a week with a fresh batch to maintain its effectiveness.
Another natural product that can be used is a mixture of water, borax, white vinegar, and tea tree oil. This combination can help eliminate odors and prevent the growth of mold.
2- Having a dedicated diaper trash can can also help in battling diaper odor. Opt for a trash can with a lid that is primarily used for diapers. This will prevent any odor from escaping.
3- To further trap the odor and create an additional barrier, recycle plastic bags from retailers by putting wet diapers in them before throwing in the trash can.
4- Using scented bags specifically designed for disposing of dirty diapers can also be helpful. These can be easily purchased at local convenience stores.
5- Investing in a home fragrance system can also aid in combating diaper odor. Traditionally, candles were a popular choice, but with children around, it is important to consider safety risks.
By following these tips and using natural products, diaper pails can be kept odor-free, ensuring a pleasant environment for both parents and babies. [3]
Different Ways to Dispose of Baby Diapers at Home
There are several different ways to dispose of baby diapers at home:
One option is to use resealable plastic bags. These bags can be used to trap smells and securely dispose of the diapers.
If you prefer to be more environmentally friendly, you can use brown paper bags or bags with odor neutralizers. These options are cost-effective and still allow for proper disposal. [4]
When to Use a Diaper Pail Instead of a Trash Can?
When it comes to disposing of baby’s diapers, there are pros and cons to using a diaper pail versus a regular trash can.
On one hand, diaper pails are specifically designed to control odors, making them a popular choice for many parents.
These pails often have tight rubber seals, foot pedals for hands-free operation, odor filters, and even safety features to keep young children from opening the pail.
Additionally, diaper pails often use multi-layered, scented bags to further lock in odors and bacteria. The scented aspect of the bags provides an extra layer of freshness, combatting any potential lingering odors.
On the other hand, some parents may find that a regular trash can is sufficient for their needs, especially if they frequently empty the trash.
However, regular trash cans may not have the same odor control features as diaper pails, and may require more frequent emptying to keep odors at bay. [5]
