Weighing Diapers and Knowing Your Baby's Drinking Habits

Photo by @venividiwander

 

Drinking behavior refers to how often, how much, and in what way your baby drinks. Especially in the first months of life, it is essential to pay attention to this so your baby can grow and develop well.

The weighing of diapers originated in neonatology and pediatrics. Newborns, especially premature babies, are often closely monitored to ensure they are receiving enough nutrition. To check this, you can measure the amount of urine excreted – this is often done by weighing the diapers.

How many wet diapers should a baby have per day? A newborn should have about 5–6 wet diapers per day during the first days of life. From the fifth day onward, the amount increases to about 6–8 wet diapers within 24 hours. It is important to see these numbers as general guidelines, as individual variations are normal.

A baby's drinking behavior can directly influence the amount of urine in the diaper, and therefore the weight of the diaper. By weighing their baby's diapers, parents can get clues about their child's fluid intake and output. If a baby regularly has wet diapers, this suggests they are drinking well. This can, in turn, be a sign of healthy weight gain. However, it is important for parents not to drive themselves crazy with constant weighing and record-keeping. As long as the child appears healthy and develops well, there is no need to track the number of wet diapers or the amount of fluid intake.

There are different methods for weighing diapers. The simplest method is to weigh the diaper before use, and then again after the baby has used it. The difference between these two weights gives you the amount of urine. It is important here to consider the type of diaper. Disposable diapers and cloth diapers can have different weights and absorbency. It is especially important to make sure that cloth diapers are completely dry before weighing them for the first time.

How does weighing diapers work?

Weighing diapers may sound unusual at first, but it is actually quite a simple process. Here is a step-by-step guide:

1. Choose an accurate scale: A digital kitchen scale usually works the most reliably. It should be able to precisely measure slight differences in weight.
   
2. Weigh the clean, dry diaper: Before putting the diaper on your baby, place it on the scale and note the weight.
   
3. Let your baby wear the diaper: Depending on age and drinking behavior, this might be for varying durations.
   
4. Weigh the used diaper: When it’s time to change the diaper, remove it and weigh it again.
   
5. Calculate the difference: Subtract the original weight of the clean diaper from the weight of the used diaper. This gives you the weight of the urine.
   

Should I weigh the diaper before or after breastfeeding?

It is best to weigh the diaper before breastfeeding. This way, you can measure the exact amount of fluid your baby has excreted since the last feeding.

How do I weigh cloth diapers?

The principle of weighing cloth diapers is very similar to that of disposable diapers. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind:

• Weigh dry: Cloth diapers should be completely dry before weighing. Any remaining moisture can distort the result.
  
• Pay attention to extra inserts: Some cloth diapers have additional inserts or boosters. These should also be weighed before and after use to obtain accurate results.
  

Photo by @anni.und.die.bande

Our Judes are a revolutionary cloth diaper that makes not only diapering but also weighing them a breeze. They consist of just two parts: an absorbent inner diaper made of high-quality organic cotton and a waterproof cover. So, in essence, you only need to measure the weight of the inner diaper, as the cover does not absorb any liquid but only serves as a wetness barrier.

Would you like to start using cloth diapers and don't know how best to begin? Our Classic Set with cloth diapers and accessories includes everything you need for an easy start to your cloth diaper journey!

Benefits of cloth diapers: Our Judes are not only eco-friendly, they are also cost-saving, especially if they are reused for several years. Our diapers are free from chemicals, perfumes or dioxins that can be found in some disposable diapers, helping to minimize the risk of diaper rash. Additionally, they are more breathable, contributing to your baby's health and comfort. Another key advantage is that children who use cloth diapers become potty trained earlier. Thanks to the direct wetness feedback provided by Judes, children learn to understand and control their bodily processes earlier.

 

How can I recognize my baby's drinking behavior?

It is very important to observe your baby's drinking behavior closely. This not only supports your child's well-being but also gives you as a parent valuable reassurance. Here are some tips on how you can assess your baby's drinking behavior:

• Watch out for hunger cues: Babies often show specific signs when they're hungry. For example, this can include sucking on their fingers, restless movements, or turning their head toward the breast.
  
• Measure the duration of breastfeeding or feeding: Some babies drink efficiently and can finish in 10–15 minutes, while others prefer to take more time. It's important not to rush your baby and to allow as much time as needed. However, remember that every child is different. Always trust your intuition rather than sticking to rigid schedules.
  
• Listen for swallowing sounds: Steady swallowing sounds can indicate that your baby is drinking well.
  

Possible “drinking types” in babies:

• The quick drinker: This baby drinks in no time and always seems to be in a hurry. It can feel full in just a few minutes.
  
• The relaxed connoisseur: This type takes their time and drinks at a calm, steady pace, often with breaks in between.
  
• The lazy drinker: The baby often starts out energetically, but then slows down and seems to just suckle. These children often fall asleep after a short time of drinking. Here, it may be helpful to stimulate the baby to encourage continued feeding.

What a baby's drinking behavior can indicate about their development:

A steady and regular drinking pattern can be an indicator of healthy development. If a baby suddenly changes their drinking behavior, drinks less, or has difficulties feeding, this could indicate illness or other health problems. In such cases, it is advisable to observe the child closely and, if necessary, consult a pediatrician. Seeking support from a lactation consultant can also be a step in the right direction. With the necessary expertise, issues such as improper latch or a short frenulum can be identified.

How can I tell if my baby is drinking enough?

It's important to emphasize that the amount of urine is not necessarily the same as the amount drunk. But it can offer some clues:

• Color and smell of urine: A well-hydrated baby will usually have light, almost clear urine. Dark urine or a strong odor can be a sign of dehydration.
  
• Number of wet diapers: For newborns in the first days of life, 5–6 wet diapers a day is normal. From the fifth day on, there should be about 6–8 wet diapers per 24 hours.

However, also trust your gut feeling and avoid stressing yourself by weighing diapers or calculating milliliters. If you feel your child is doing well, gaining weight, and seems healthy, you do not need to waste your precious time documenting wet diapers or meals.

Photo by @cafema.illustration

What weight is considered ideal for a baby?

A baby's weight and its gain can vary. It's completely normal for babies to lose up to 10 percent of their birth weight in the first days after birth. But don't worry, because in about 10 days they will regain this weight. During the first 3 months, the average weight gain is about 150–200 grams per week. From 4 to 6 months, it's around 100–150 grams per week, and from 6 to 12 months, about 70–90 grams per week. However, it's important to remember that every baby is unique. A pediatrician will check the growth trajectory during regular check-ups.

Baby weight chart

Month	Average weight (boys)	Average weight (girls)
At birth	3.3 kg – 3.6 kg	3.2 kg – 3.5 kg
1 month	4.0 kg – 4.5 kg	3.9 kg – 4.4 kg
2 months	5.1 kg – 5.7 kg	4.8 kg – 5.4 kg
3 months	6.0 kg – 6.6 kg	5.6 kg – 6.2 kg
4 months	6.7 kg – 7.4 kg	6.2 kg – 6.9 kg
5 months	7.4 kg – 8.2 kg	6.9 kg – 7.7 kg
6 months	7.9 kg – 8.9 kg	7.3 kg – 8.3 kg
7 months	8.4 kg – 9.5 kg	7.8 kg – 8.8 kg
8 months	8.9 kg – 10 kg	8.2 kg – 9.3 kg
9 months	9.3 kg – 10.5 kg	8.6 kg – 9.8 kg
10 months	9.7 kg – 11 kg	8.9 kg – 10.2 kg
11 months	10 kg – 11.5 kg	9.2 kg – 10.7 kg
12 months	10.3 kg – 12 kg	9.5 kg – 11.2 kg

These values are based on averages and may vary depending on region, diet, and genetic factors. Please always trust your intuition. As long as your child seems happy and appears healthy, there is probably no reason for concern.

When does it not make sense to weigh the diaper?

Although weighing diapers can be useful in certain situations, there are also times and circumstances where it is unnecessary or even counterproductive. Here are some examples:

1. Healthy development: If your baby is steadily gaining weight, eating well, has an appropriate number of wet diapers, and generally appears healthy, there is no need to weigh the diaper regularly. Trust the natural signs that your baby is thriving.
   
2. Older babies: For older babies who are already eating solid food, urine production can vary and is no longer the sole indicator for sufficient fluid intake.
   
3. Stress factor: If constantly weighing diapers causes you or your partner unnecessary worry or stress, it may be better to take a break. Parental intuition and observing your baby’s overall well-being are often just as reliable.
   
4. Impact on bonding: The first months of a baby's life are crucial for establishing a strong parent-child bond. If weighing the diaper impacts the quality or quantity of your interaction with your baby, you should consider whether it's really necessary.
   
5. Medical advice: If a pediatrician has confirmed that your baby is healthy and developing normally, and they advise you not to weigh the diapers constantly, follow that advice. Doctors have an overview of your child’s overall development and can advise you best.
   

Weighing diapers is an extremely useful tool, especially during the first weeks and months. It allows for precise monitoring of weight and thus contributes to the baby's health and development. As with many things in life, however, it is important to find a healthy balance and always make sure that your baby's well-being remains the top priority. If you feel your baby is thriving and developing well, trust your instincts.

Conclusion

A baby's drinking behavior, especially in the first months of life, is crucial for their growth and development. Monitoring through weighing diapers, originally used in neonatology and pediatrics, helps parents understand their baby's fluid intake and output.

This article is intended to help you recognize problems with your baby's drinking and elimination habits early, so you can respond accordingly. Please always remember that you should not view such issues as your own failure, and listen to your intuition. Seek support in the form of lactation consulting and talk to your pediatrician if you have concerns.

At Judes, we know that switching to cloth diapers is a big decision for many families. Especially for parents who may have only used disposable diapers so far, the idea of cloth diapers can initially seem daunting. But Judes makes it easy to take the step toward more eco-friendly, practical, and comfortable alternatives. Our diapers are not only innovative and modern, but they are also designed to make diapering as simple and straightforward as possible. Below, we have summarized the main advantages of Judes:

1. Sustainable: Judes diapers are an eco-friendly choice. They help to significantly reduce the mountain of waste caused by disposable diapers. Each of our reusable diapers replaces hundreds of disposables.
2. Healthy skin: Our diapers are made from skin-friendly materials that are gentle on your baby's delicate skin. They contain no harmful chemicals found in disposable diapers. This minimizes both the risk of skin irritations and allergies as well as the need for moisturizers and wound creams.
3. Earlier diaper-free: Studies show that children who wear cloth diapers tend to become diaper-free earlier. This is because they are more likely to notice the sensation of wetness, which accelerates their cognitive connection to using the toilet. For more information on this, see our article: “Earlier Diaper-Free with Cloth Diapers? Our Study is Conclusive”.
4. Less time required: With Judes diapers, you save time. Our modern cloth diapers are designed so they are quick and easy to put on. Washing is also straightforward – with our Poo Paper and efficient washing processes, they become clean again in no time. The time spent purchasing and disposing of disposable diapers is significantly higher.
5. Cost savings: The one-time investment in Judes cloth diapers pays off. They are reusable and durable. This means you can save considerable costs on disposable diapers in the long run.
6. Leak-proof: Our diapers are not only sustainable, but also effective. Thanks to innovative designs and materials, they provide excellent sealing that prevents leaks and keeps your child dry. Disposable diapers, on the other hand, tend to leak, especially with heavy wetters or explosive breast milk stools, because while they can absorb a lot of liquid, they often aren't fast enough.
7. Hygienic: Judes diapers are not only easy to use but also hygienic. The simple cleaning and the possibility to dispose of stool with Poo Paper before washing ensures far fewer unpleasant odors develop than with disposable diapers.

By choosing Judes, you select a diaper that is not only practical and comfortable but also reflects your values. You support sustainable practices, promote your child’s health, and enjoy comfort and security at the same time. Make the change today and experience the difference with Judes – for your baby, for you, and for our world.