Related Experiment Videos
Investigation of the age of release from the diaper environment
Insights
Disposable diapers do not prolong diaper use or delay toilet training. A study found that the duration of diaper use was similar for both disposable and cotton diapers, even in identical twins.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Developmental Psychology
Background:
- Disposable diaper use is rising in Japan.
- Concerns exist that the dry-touch feature of disposable diapers may extend diapering duration or impede toilet training.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate whether disposable diapers influence the duration of diaper use compared to conventional cotton diapers.
- To assess the impact of disposable diapers on toilet training timelines.
Main Methods:
- A comparative study was conducted on two groups: one using cotton diapers and another using disposable diapers.
- An identical twin study was performed, with one twin using cotton diapers and the other using disposable diapers.
Main Results:
- The average age for stopping diaper use was 27 months, consistent across both disposable and cotton diaper groups.
- No significant differences were found in the timing of diaper removal or overall use duration between the groups, including within identical twin pairs.
Conclusions:
- The dry-touch characteristic of disposable diapers does not appear to prolong the period of diaper use or delay toilet training.
- Evidence suggests that diaper type does not significantly impact the timeline for achieving dryness.
Abstract:
The use of disposable diapers in Japan is increasing. It has been observed, however, that, because their dry touch prevents infants from feeling wetness, disposable diaper use may prolong the time of wearing diapers or delay toilet training. A study of the periods during which diapers were required was conducted on two groups, one using conventional cotton diapers and the other, disposable diapers. In addition, the same study was performed with identical twins, one sibling using cotton, and the other, disposable diapers. Results of the study revealed that the time to stopping diaper use was the same in both groups: the average was 27 months (6 months longer than the average 20 years ago). Among identical twins, no difference was observed as to notice before discharge, notice after discharge, or period of use. Therefore, there was no evidence that the dry feel of disposable diapers resulted in prolongation of diaper use.