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Why Your Baby's Nappy is Leaking: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Size for a Leak-Free Fit
Why Your Baby's Nappy is Leaking: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Size for a Leak-Free Fit

Why Your Baby's Nappy is Leaking: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Size for a Leak-Free Fit

Few things are more frustrating than waking up at 3 am to a leaking nappy... It’s easy to assume the nappy brand is to blame - or that it’s just a one-off. But the real reason behind most leaks? The wrong size!
Every baby is unique in the shape of their thighs, waist and buttocks - and while our weight ranges are a great starting point, they’re based on the “average baby” (if one even exists!). Plus, not all nappies are sized the same across brands, so a Size 3 in one might fit very differently from a Size 3 in another.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to know if your Joonya nappy is too big or too small — and when it might be time to switch to our pull-up pants for a more secure, leak-free fit.

🔼When to Size Up

If you're wondering why your baby's nappy is leaking frequently, especially overnight, it's likely time to move on up a size. Here's how to know for sure:
  • Frequent leaks overnight or during naps - the absorbency may no longer be enough for your baby's output. Larger sizes contain more SAP (super absorbent polymer) and offer higher absorbency capacity.
  • Blowouts up the back or sides - they may have outgrown the length/depth and need to size up for better coverage.
  • Red marks or indentations around the waist or legs - a sign it's too snug.
  • Body shape differences - not all babies carry weight the same way. A baby with chubby thighs, rounder tummy or longer torso might outgrow the fit of the nappy size sooner than a baby of the same weight with a different shape.
  • Sudden growth spurts - they can come out of nowhere and mean they have outgrown the size almost overnight.
  • Nearing the top of the weight range - Even if your baby is technically within the weight range on the pack, the fit might already be too small.  
    Example: If your baby is 7 kg and you're still using Size 3 (4–8 kg), try moving to Size 4 (7–14 kg) — especially if you're seeing red marks, blowouts, or overnight leaks.

🔽When to Size Down

Leaks can also happen if the nappy is too big to stay snug. Look out for:
  • Gaps at the waist, back or thighs - the nappy isn't sealing properly. A smaller size will give a snug, secure fit that holds liquid in.
  • Nappy bunches, sags or slides down - a loose nappy will bunch at the crotch and slide down when they crawl or walk. 
  • Tabs overlap too much - if the tabs cross over each other at the front, the nappy is too large.

🩳When to switch to pull-ups 

As your baby grows and becomes more active, it might be time to switch from tab-style nappies to Joonya pull-up pants.
  • Baby won’t lie still for nappy changes.

  • Leaks happen during crawling, walking for play time.

  • You're starting the toilet training journey.

  • You need faster, fuss-free changes on the go.

  • Leaks happen during crawling, walking or playtime.

So What Size Should You Choose?

Here’s how to make sure you’re choosing the right nappy size every time:

  • Follow the weight guidelines on the Joonya pack or the size guide below - they’re a great starting point.

  • Size up if your baby is near the top of the weight range or you’re seeing leaks, blowouts, or tight tabs.

  • Try overlapping sizes — if your baby is between weights, try the next size up and see which fits best.

  • Test before you commit — before buying a bulk box, try a smaller Trial Bundle of Joonya nappies to make sure the fit is perfect for your baby.

⏳ Many parents hesitate to move up a size to avoid wasting nappies, but in reality, sizing up sooner can save you money, time, and laundry in the long run.

Pro Tips for a Leak-Free Nappy Routine

A good fit isn’t the only key to preventing leaks. Keep these tips in mind:

👉 Run a finger around the leg cuffs to make sure they’re untucked and snug.

🎯 Position the nappy correctly — high enough at the back and centered in the front.

Change regularly — even the best-fitting nappy can leak if it’s too full.

Nappy leaks are annoying - but in almost every case, it comes down to fit. So next time your baby wakes up soaked (and you’re tempted to change brands), start with the simplest fix:
📏 Check the size (see charts below)
📦 Always have a trial pack of the next size up to test out
You’ll save yourself some midnight laundry - and your baby will sleep more comfortably, too. 
Here's to drier nights and happier mornings.
- The Joonya Team 💚

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