10 Best Biodegradable Diapers [Chemical-Free and Safe]

Regular disposable diapers are an environmental nightmare.

If you don’t want to add to landfill waste, then biodegradable diapers are a great option. 

The best biodegradable diapers are sourced from plant-based materials and include no nasties. 

PS! There are no completely biodegradable diapers, anything over 80% is ideal.

Our Favorites

Best Biodegradable Diapers

1. Dyper Plant-Based Biodegradable Diapers

Made from bamboo viscous these diapers are made to be compostable. To make the process straightforward and to improve the speed of these biodegradable nappies, Dyper collects them from your home.

They remove the diapers in a compostable bag and using their industrial composting process these diapers biodegrade within 14 weeks. Saving you the process of getting rid of the soiled diapers and speeding up their compostable natural process. 

With their plain diaper design, there is no added coloring or man-made materials used. This means that the whole diaper is biodegradable and they are a fully biodegradable diaper brand.

What We Liked

• Delivered and collected from home so it is one less job for you to worry about. 
• 14-week biodegradable process making them a quick biodegradable diaper. 
• Made from sustainably grown bamboo viscose with no fertilizers needed. 
• Odorless and breathable diapers, keep your little one comfortable. 
• Subscription service so you never have to worry about running out.

Biodegradable: over 80%
Main Material: Bamboo
Hypoallergenic: Yes
Wetness Indicator: Yes
Sizing: Sizes newborn – size 5 (<10 lb to >27 lb)

2. Eco Pea Biodegradable Bamboo Diapers

The Eco Pea is one of the most popular biodegradable diapers. Tested and confirmed as being over 85% biodegradable. They have focused on creating as many sections of the diaper that half degrade within months. 

Completely open and transparent, it is only the waist closure tape and Polypropylene inner layer that is not biodegradable. All other components used to make this biodegradable diaper can be degraded over time. 

In addition to being biodegradable baby diapers, they also include the ‘extra’ favorites for parents. Including a blowout guard, wetness indicator, and extreme softness for your baby.

Combined, you know that the diaper will hold up, even to the messiest blowout, whilst not adding to landfill.

What We Liked

• Over 85% biodegradable, with limited non-biodegradable components used. 
• Over 50% degraded within months, unlike other diapers that take hundreds of years. 
• Naturally made without chemicals or fragrance, designed not to irritate little bums. 
• Low levels of aloe are included to keep sensitive bums fresh and prevent diaper rash. 
• Highly absorbent and can be used for day and nighttime use.

Biodegradable: 85%
Main Material: Bamboo
Hypoallergenic: Yes
Wetness Indicator: Yes
Sizing: Sizes Newborn – 6 (<10 lb to >35+ lb)

3. Esembly Biodegradable Cloth Diapers

Although these can be used as biodegradable diapers or paired with an outer shell, which is not biodegradable.

They make for a great alternative. Usually made of the absorbent inner and covered with a waterproof outer, each outer can be used to house 4 inners before washing. Making them an ideal alternative to other diapers. 

And after your LO has grown out of the diapers, you can sell them and save the environment at the same time.

The inner is made from soft, organic cotton. This aspect of the diaper is 100% biodegradable, As it is not waterproof to stop your little ones outer clothes getting damp, it is recommended to work with a waterproof outer cover. 

Being reusable and having the option to pass or sell them on, they also carry the benefit of not adding unnecessarily to landfill waste.

What We Liked

• Designed to grow with your baby, you can reuse them numerous times.
• The organic cotton inner is 100% natural and over time, is biodegradable. 
• Being able to be reused and cotton-based they are bio-conscious diapers. 
• Adjustable sizing to ensure a perfect fit around tummy and thighs. 
• The outers come in a range of patterns and designed to make diapering fun.

Biodegradable: Inner 100%
Main Material: Cotton
Hypoallergenic: Yes
Wetness Indicator: No
Sizing: 2 sizes (7 lb to >35 lb)

4. Aleva Naturals Biodegradable Bamboo Diapers

Made from bamboo fibers and bamboo kun, there are no additives to these diapers. It is this completely natural design that makes these one of the best biodegradable baby diapers. 

Not compromising on absorbency or softness, their bamboo design wicks away moisture quickly. It is extremely soft and gentle against delicate bottoms whilst being breathable.

This combination makes this biodegradable diaper brand not only gentle on baby’s skin but compostable as well. 

Including a 3 line wetness indicator, they include all the bells and whistles every parent wants. When the line changes, the visual indicator shows when a diaper change may be required.

What We Liked

• Easily biodegradable and made from plant-based materials. 
• Degrading process is quick and they start biodegrading within weeks.
• Naturally antibacterial, making them great for babies with sensitive skin. 
• Wetness indicators to offer visual insight when the diaper needs changing. 
• Generous leg cuffs to prevent blowouts and keep messes contained within the diaper.

Biodegradable: Yes
Main Material: Bamboo
Hypoallergenic: Yes
Wetness Indicator: Yes
Sizing: (e.g. Sizes 1-4 (4 lb to 30 lb)

5. AndyPandy Disposable Biodegradable Bamboo Diapers

Primarily made from bamboo, AndyPandy has created diapers that are biodegradable. Classed at over 86% biodegradable, they are one of the most biodegradable diapers on the market. 

It is only the velcro waistband, pH strip, and leg cuffs that aren’t biodegradable. 

Made from bamboo, they don’t require any fertilizers, so you know that it is only natural goodness being used on your baby.

This lack of chemicals and additives makes these biodegradable materials soft and gentle against newborn, delicate skin. Perfect for babies that are prone to diaper rash. 

Extremely strong, these diapers are tried and tested and come with a ‘no leak guarantee’.

What We Liked

• Top and back sheets are made from 100% bamboo and are 100% biodegradable. 
• Packaged and sold in biodegradable paper packaging. 
• No leak guarantee, preventing blowouts and leaks and additional washing. 
• Bamboo softness makes these silky soft and comfortable for your little one. 
• Great for babies with sensitive skin due to no chemicals and is hypoallergenic.

Biodegradable: 86%
Main Material: Bamboo
Hypoallergenic: Yes
Wetness Indicator: Yes
Sizing: Sizes NB – XL (7 lb to >26 lb)

6. Attitude Biodegradable Baby Diapers

As one of the top-rated biodegradable diapers, Attitude diapers are made with over 50% biodegradable and renewable raw materials. 

The back sheet is made from biodegradable non-GMO cornstarch, and the absorbent core of the diaper is made from FSH wood cellulose. 

These combinations of biodegradable materials make these diapers fast-absorbing, absorbent, and highly effective. 

Shaped to prevent leaks, they provide the absorbency where needed the most, without restricting your little one’s movements. 

Extremely soft, they are one of the best biodegradable diapers for newborns and active tots alike. Wicking away moisture quickly, they work to reduce and keep diaper rash away.

What We Liked

• Highly absorbent, they make for the best biodegradable diapers for overnight and daytime use.
• Over 50% biodegradable, so limited impact of non-biodegradable waste. 
• Fast absorption to keep little ones comfortable and prevent diaper rash. 
• Non-toxic diapers to prevent irritation against the sensitivity of baby skin.
• Leak-free shape to contour to your baby’s shape and prevent blowouts.

Biodegradable: 50%
Main Material: cornstarch and wood cellulose
Hypoallergenic: Yes
Wetness Indicator: No
Sizing: Sizes Newborn-6 (>11 lb to 66 lb)

7. Dewor Disposable Biodegradable Baby Diapers

Made from 100% bamboo panels and an absorbent core filled with wood pulp fluff, these are the best biodegradable disposable diapers. 

Although the biodegradable percentage is unknown, there is very little within their design that isn’t made from natural raw materials. 

Cleverly using the benefits of bamboo, they provide fast moisture-wicking, they are highly strong and can’t hold a huge amount of liquid. Ideal for parents of heavy wetter and making them suited to both day and nighttime use. 

Including the natural element of an aloe liner, these diapers also offer the added benefit of soothing little bums and preventing irritation and diaper rash.

What We Liked

• Naturally made and designed to be biodegradable in a short timeframe. 
• Confidence that all bamboo layers are 100% biodegradable. 
• Includes a wetness indicator to remind you when it needs changing. 
• Use natural aloe to prevent diaper rash and keep your little one comfortable. 
• Excellent absorbency makes them suitable for heavy wetters and nighttime wear.

Biodegradable: Yes
Main Material: Bamboo
Hypoallergenic: Yes
Wetness Indicator: Yes
Sizing: Sizes small to large (6 lb to 31 lb)

8. ECO Boom Bamboo Viscose Disposable Diapers

The front and back panels of the ECO Boom Bamboo Viscose biodegradable disposable diapers are completely biodegradable. The packaging that the diapers are sold in are also completely biodegradable within 18 months. 

Including natural aloe oil within the diaper, they protect and nourish little bottoms and help in preventing diaper rash. 

With the removal of the sticky tabs, these diapers can be taken and degraded through a professional company or composted. 

Soft and flexible, these diapers offer a snug fit to your little one. Not bulky, they provide the absorption where needed and fit nicely under your little ones’ outer clothes.

The slim fit design ensures that leaks and blowouts are kept at bay and all messes remain contained within the diaper.

What We Liked

• Primarily made from bamboo viscose which is easily biodegradable.
• Keen to reduce landfill waste they are sold in biodegradable packaging. 
• Wide, strong ecstatic tape to ensure they secure and fit your little one perfectly. 
• Fast absorption bamboo core, keeps little bums dry and irritation-free. 
• Slim fitting diaper which isn’t too bulky under outer clothing.

Biodegradable: Not stated
Main Material: Bamboo
Hypoallergenic: Yes
Wetness Indicator: Yes
Sizing: Sizes small – XL (6 lb to >26 lb)

9. Ecoriginals Biodegradable Diapers

The Ecoriginals diapers have thought about the biodegradable process. With only the leg cuffs and sticky tabs not being 100% natural, the rest of the diaper is biodegradable.

Furthermore, to help with the process, these biodegradable diaper brands are packaged in a corn starch lining that is 100% compostable.

With a uniquely crafted plantcell technology, these diapers are extremely thirsty and, even when full, will keep your little one dry.

With a superior leak guard and their capacity to hold high volumes of liquid. The Ecoriginals diapers are designed for the day and night, and heavy wetters, keeping your little one happy.

What We Liked

• The majority of the diaper is biodegradable and naturally made. 
• Provided in fully compostable packaging making these biodegradable as well. 
• 100% cotton backsheet to keep the diaper breathable and your little one comfortable. 
• 3D leak guard to contain messes in the diaper and prevent side leakages. 
• Their plantcell technology locks all moisture away and keeps little bottoms dry.

Biodegradable: 90%
Main Material: Wood pulp and cotton
Hypoallergenic: Yes
Wetness Indicator: No
Sizing: Sizes Newborn-6 ( birth lb to >35 lb)

10. Little Toes Disposable Bamboo Baby Diapers

Made from natural bamboo fiber, these diapers will naturally decompose within 180 days when left with soil and sunlight in 180 days. 

The top and backsheets are made from 100% bamboo fibers making these parts of the diaper biodegradable. Although there are parts of the diapers that aren’t biodegradable.

Littles Toes diapers are over 50% biodegradable and degrade in half a year in sunlight. 

The bamboo fibers make them not only biodegradable but extremely absorbent and soft. Allowing airflow through the diaper, your little one will remain dry and rash-free. Whilst still being extremely absorbent.

What We Liked

• The diaper will biodegrade within 180 days when left in sunlight. 
• Primarily bamboo made which easily biodegrades naturally. 
• Highly absorbent bamboo makes the core of the diaper effective for the big wees. 
• Soft and gentle against the skin, these diapers are comfortable for delicate skin. 
• Snug comfy fit to prevent gaps and leaks from escaping.

Biodegradable: over 50%
Main Material: Bamboo
Hypoallergenic: Yes
Wetness Indicator: No
Sizing: Sizes newborn – large (6.6 lb to 29 lb)

What Does Biodegradable Mean?

Biodegradable means that through bacteria and other living organisms the item is able to decompose naturally. 

In simple terms, the biodegradable definition is where an item will naturally break down over time without leaving toxins behind. 

For an item to be classed as biodegradable, it must degrade and go back to nature without leaving toxins within one year. 

When you start considering how natural products are made and what chemical processes are used. You can find that meeting this criterion to be biodegradable isn’t always straightforward. 

There are many industries that use biodegradable processes and products. From packaging and distribution of food, and biodegradable shopping bags to diapers. 

What do Biodegradable Diapers Mean?

For a diaper to be classified as biodegradable, it needs to be over 50% naturally made and be able to degrade in less than a year. 

100%, fully biodegradable diapers currently do not exist. The sticky tabs and for the leg cuffs, for example, in most cases are not biodegradable at present. 

The majority of all items will over degrade. So, even diapers that are not 100% biodegradable at present will degrade back to nothing. The unknown part is how long this process will take for those sections and if any toxins will be released. 

To understand if a diaper is biodegradable, you will want to understand how it is certified and what/if chemicals are used within its manufacturing. 

How Fast do Biodegradable Diapers Decompose?

The majority of biodegradable diapers have the front, back, and core made from biodegradable materials. 

In most cases, it is the plastics and sticky tabs on the fasteners and the leg cuffs that primarily seem to be not biodegradable. Although with the pH wetness indicators. 

When these diapers are placed in the ‘right’ conditions, including airflow and sunlight, these parts degrade in less than a year. 

As diapers are not 100% biodegradable, the other sections will decompose but it can take a longer time. 

This is significantly better than standard disposable diapers. On average it takes them 500 years to decompose. 

How to Choose the Best Biodegradable Diapers?

When choosing a biodegradable diaper, it is important to consider its main raw material, how it was tested and how much of the diaper is biodegradable. 

Third-Party Testing 

Having a diaper primarily made from natural materials does not necessarily make a diaper biodegradable. 

Looking at how this ‘term’ has been authorized is important. When choosing a diaper that has undergone third-party testing gives the user confidence in how well these diapers decompose and in what conditions. 

Without bias, it reinforces that the diapers are meeting the standards set to make them ‘biodegradable’. 

Although not regulated, the use of a third-party tester shows how committed the manufacturer is to their biodegradable diapers. 

Main Material 

The raw materials used to make the diapers are vital in understanding how biodegradable they are. 

To make organic biodegradable diapers, it is important to understand how the materials were sourced. 

The best biodegradable materials used are bamboo and wood pulp. Both are naturally sourced, not treated with chemicals, and compatible with quick decomposition. 

The higher percentage of the diaper made with these components the better they are for decomposing. Also, giving them a higher percentage on how much is biodegradable. 

Biodegradability % 

With no diaper being 100% biodegradable the percentage of their biodegradability is important. 

To be able to be sold as biodegradable they need to meet minimum criteria of 50%. However, the higher the percentage the more of the diaper will decompose within less than a year and not leave toxins behind. 

So, if you are looking to reduce landfill waste, opting for diapers with a higher biodegradability percentage will ensure that you are doing your part. 

Free of Chemicals 

Commonly disposable diapers include different pollutants including (PCDDs), compounds of ethylene benzene, xylene and toluene, polyacrylates, or phthalates which all can be harmful to children. 

Biodegradable diapers do not include these chemicals. So when they are decomposing, they do not leave harmful toxins in the environment.

Also, being free from chemicals they are found to be gentler on the skin and cause less irritation. Making them perfect for combating and keeping delicate little bottoms free from diaper rash. 

Brand	Biodegradable %	Main Material
Dyper	80+%	Bamboo
EcoPeaCo	85%	Bamboo
Aleva Naturals	Not stated	Bamboo
Andy Pandy	86%	Bamboo
Attitude	50%	Cornstarch and wood cellulose
Dewor	Not stated	Bamboo
ECO Boom	Not stated	Bamboo
Ecoriginals	90%	Wood pulp and cotton
Little Toes	50+%	Bamboo
Nest	87%	Wood and bamboo cane

FAQ

What are biodegradable diapers?

A biodegradable diaper is a diaper that is made at 50% or more out of biodegradable materials and will decompose in less than a year. 

How long does it take for biodegradable diapers to decompose?

For a diaper to be classified as biodegradable, it needs to decompose in less than 12 months. The specific timeframes will vary based on materials and the conditions to decompose in. 

Are biodegradable diapers better for the environment? 

Yes. Unlike other disposable diapers, they decompose in a shorter time frame. They also decompose without leaving harmful toxins and gasses in the environment, making them much better for the environment. 

Are disposable diapers biodegradable? 

All diapers will decompose over time. However, disposable diapers are not classified as biodegradable as they take over 500 years to decompose and leave toxins behind. 

Are bamboo diapers biodegradable? 

The majority are. As bamboo can be grown without the need of chemicals and they are naturally grown. They tend to be biodegradable and decompose within 12 months or less. 

Are plant-based diapers biodegradable? 

Being naturally made, plant-based diapers are likely to be biodegradable. However, it does depend on if any chemicals were used to grow the materials and harvest them. 

Are Pampers Pure diapers biodegradable? 

No. Pampers Pure diapers are not biodegradable. Although they are free from chemicals, the materials used in these diapers do not decompose in less than a year. 

Are Pampers diapers biodegradable? 

No they are not. Pampers diapers are not biodegradable. Based on the materials used they will take around 500 years to biodegrade, if they biodegrade at all. 

Are Hello Bello diapers biodegradable? 

No. Hello Bello diapers are not biodegradable. Even though they are made from wood pulp and PLA they do not meet the standards to be classed as biodegradable. 

Are Honest diapers biodegradable?

No Honest diapers are not biodegradable. Although made from corn and wheat ingredients, Honest diapers are also made with petroleum-based plastics and other materials that aren’t biodegradable.

Are Dyper diapers biodegradable?

Yes, Dyper diapers are biodegradable. Made mainly from bamboo, these diapers are over 80% biodegradable. Dyper will also collect your used diapers and decompose them within 14 weeks for you. 

Are Andy Pandy diapers biodegradable? 

Yes Andy Pandy diapers are biodegradable. Primarily made from bamboo they are 86% with the front and back panels being 100% biodegradable. It is only the leg cuff, pH strip and elastics that aren’t biodegradable. 

Are Seventh Generation diapers biodegradable? 

No, Seventh Generation diapers are not biodegradable. This is because the majority of the materials used to make these diapers are synthetic and do not biodegrade. 

Are Earth’s Best diapers biodegradable? 

No, Earth’s Best diapers are not biodegradable. Although they are made from corn starch and natural resources, they do not claim these diapers to be biodegradable. 

Are Kirkland diapers biodegradable?

No Kirkland diapers are not biodegradable. Although they are made from 20% plant-based materials, they do not contain the required levels of biodegradable raw materials that biodegrade within a year. 

Are Earth and Eden diapers biodegradable?

Earth and Eden diapers are not biodegradable. They are made from sustainably sourced materials and produce zero landfill waste but the diapers do not decompose within 12 months. 

Are Huggies diapers biodegradable?

Huggies diapers are not biodegradable. Some of the diapers in their range are plant-based but they do not claim to meet the criteria for any of their diapers to be classified as biodegradable. 

Are Babyganics diapers biodegradable?

No Babyganics diapers are not biodegradable. Although some plant-based materials are used within its design, it does not decompose quick enough to make it be classified as biodegradable. 

Are Brandless diapers biodegradable? 

No Brandless diapers are not biodegradable. This is because the core materials used do not biodegrade to meet the required standards of no toxins and fast decomposition. 

Are 7th Generation diapers biodegradable? 

No 7th Generation diapers are not biodegradable, or suitable to be composted. Like the majority of disposable diapers, they include synthetic materials that do not decompose. 

Are Up and Up diapers biodegradable? 

No, Up and Up diapers are not biodegradable. Although free from certain additives these diapers are made from synthetic materials that are not biodegradable friendly. 

Are Target diapers biodegradable? 

No, Target diapers are not biodegradable. They do not claim that the whole diaper is free from certain additives and with synthetic materials included they do not biodegrade quickly. 

Are Millie Moon diapers biodegradable? 

No Millie Moon diapers are not biodegradable. Made primarily from wood fluff pulp, they do not meet the percentage requirements to make this diaper biodegradable. 

Are Coterie diapers biodegradable?

No, Coterie diapers are not biodegradable. This is because they are made from polyester and polypropylene that are not biodegradable or compostable in addition to their wood pulp core. 

Are Eco by Naty diapers biodegradable?

No, Eco by Naty diapers are not stated to be biodegradable. Although they state that they are over 50% planted based they do not confirm that these diapers are biodegradable. 

Are Bambo Nature diapers biodegradable?

Bambo nature diapers are not biodegradable. Although they do include fluff from wood pulp, they also include a range of non-degradable plastic materials that do not degrade. 

Are Healthynest diapers biodegradable? 

No Healthynest diapers are not biodegradable. Even though they are primarily plant-based and free from chemicals, it does not appear that they degrade fast enough to be deemed biodegradable. 

Are Abby&Finn diapers biodegradable?

No, Abby&Finn diapers are not biodegradable. Containing approximately 35-40% biodegradable materials they do not meet the minimum threshold to make them a biodegradable diaper.