How to make a diaper cake (2024)

A diaper cake is a creative and practical gift for expecting parents, especially during baby showers. It’s a fun way to present a bunch of useful diapers in a decorative and appealing manner.

Don’t worry; despite its name, a diaper cake isn’t an edible treat but rather a cute centerpiece made from rolled-up diapers.

Let’s explore further and get to know how to make a diaper cake.

1. Diapers (approximately 50-100, depending on the size of the cake)
2. Rubber bands (medium and large size)
3. Cardboard cake base or a sturdy platter
4. Empty paper towel or wrapping paper tube (optional)
5. Ribbon or string
6. Baby items (pacifiers, baby lotion, baby socks, small toys, etc.)
7. Glue dots or double-sided tape (optional)
8. Decorative items (toys, baby accessories, baby washcloths, etc.)
9. Scissors

1. Roll the diapers: Take each diaper and roll it up tightly from the front to the back. Secure the rolled diaper with a medium-sized rubber band. Repeat this process for all the diapers you plan to use. The number of diapers you need will depend on the size and number of tiers you want your diaper cake to have.
2. Create the base: Place a large, sturdy platter or a circular piece of cardboard on the table. Alternatively, if you want a taller cake, you can use an empty paper towel or wrapping paper tube placed in the center of the platter.
3. Build the first tier: Take some rolled diapers and arrange them in a circle around the base/tube. Use a large rubber band to secure the diapers together. Make sure the folded edges of the diapers are facing outward for a neater look. Add more diapers to the circle until you achieve the desired thickness for the first tier.
4. Build the additional tiers: For a multi-tier diaper cake, repeat the process with different quantities of diapers. Typically, each successive tier should use fewer diapers than the one below it, creating a tapered effect.
5. Secure the tiers together: Carefully place each tier on top of the other, starting from the largest tier at the bottom. You can use double-sided tape or glue dots between the layers to secure them in place.
6. Decorate the cake: Now comes the fun part! You can use ribbons or strings to tie around each tier, covering the rubber bands and adding a decorative touch. Consider using ribbons that match the baby shower theme or the baby’s gender.
7. Add baby items: Insert small baby items like pacifiers, baby lotion, baby socks, and other baby essentials between the rolled diapers of each tier. You can also place a cute baby toy or plush animal on top of the cake.
8. Personalize with accessories: Get creative and add some final touches to make the diaper cake even more adorable. Attach baby washcloths around the tiers to mimic frosting or place tiny decorative accessories like baby shoes or rattles on the cake.
9. Presenting the diaper cake: Once your diaper cake is complete, it’s ready to be presented at the baby shower! It not only serves as a lovely centerpiece but also provides new parents with a bunch of much-needed diapers for their little ones . Keep in mind that you can modify the design and decorations according to your preferences and the theme of the baby shower. If you are wondering more about ‘how to make a diaper cake faster? Well, it requires some time and effort, but the end result will undoubtedly be a cherished and practical gift for expectant parents.

When making a diaper cake, it’s essential to choose diapers that are not only visually appealing but also of good quality. Here are some popular and highly recommended diaper brands that work well for diaper cakes:

1. Pampers: Pampers is a well-known and trusted brand that offers a range of diapers suitable for different baby sizes. They are known for their softness, absorbency, and snug fit, making them ideal for a diaper cake.
2. Huggies: Another popular diaper brand, Huggies, is also a great choice for a diaper cake. They have various diaper options, including those designed for newborns and active babies.
3. Luvs: Luvs diapers are known for their affordable price without compromising on quality. They have a great fit and provide excellent leakage protection.
4. Seventh Generation: If you prefer environmentally friendly options, Seventh Generation offers diapers made with more sustainable materials. They are free from chlorine, lotions, and fragrances, making them gentle on a baby’s sensitive skin.
5. The Honest Company: The Honest Company produces diapers that are hypoallergenic, eco-friendly, and free from harmful chemicals. They come in cute designs, making them a lovely addition to a diaper cake.
6. Bambo Nature: Another eco-friendly option, Bambo Nature diapers, are made with sustainable materials and are dermatologically tested to be gentle on baby’s skin.
7. Babyganics: Babyganics diapers are designed with a focus on the baby’s comfort and feature a wetness indicator to help parents know when it’s time for a change.

When selecting diapers for your diaper cake, consider the size of the diapers, as you’ll want to ensure they are suitable for the baby’s age or stage. If you’re unsure about the parents’ diaper brand preference or baby’s size, you can opt for a mix of different sizes or choose diapers that are labeled for newborns, as they are typically the most commonly used size in the early months.

Ultimately, the best diapers to use for a diaper cake are those that align with the parents’ values, offer good quality, and have an appealing design that complements your overall diaper cake theme.

When choosing a base for your diaper cake, you want to make sure it’s sturdy and provides a solid foundation for the tiers of rolled diapers. There are several options to consider, and here are some popular choices:

1. Cardboard Cake Base: A circular or square cardboard cake base is a common and readily available option for creating a diaper cake. You can find these at craft stores or even repurpose sturdy cardboard from old boxes. Make sure the size of the base is appropriate for the number of tiers you plan to build.
2. Cake Stand or Platter: If you want to add a touch of elegance to your diaper cake, consider using a cake stand or a decorative platter as the base. These can be made of various materials such as glass, ceramic, or metal, and they come in various sizes and designs.
3. Empty Paper Towel or Wrapping Paper Tube: If you want to create a taller diaper cake, you can use an empty paper towel or wrapping paper tube placed in the center of the base. This will allow you to stack more diaper tiers while maintaining stability.
4. Diaper Changing Pad or Mat: Another practical option is to use a diaper changing pad or mat as the base. It serves a dual purpose by providing a useful gift along with the diaper cake.
5. Wicker Basket or Basket Tray: For a rustic or themed diaper cake, consider using a wicker basket or a basket tray as the base. It not only adds charm but also provides a place to include additional baby items or decorations.
6. Diaper Caddy or Organizer: A diaper caddy or organizer with compartments can make an excellent base for a diaper cake. After the baby shower, the parents can use it to store and organize baby essentials.
7. Wooden Crate or Box: If you want to give the diaper cake a more rustic or vintage look, consider using a small wooden crate or box as the base. You can paint or decorate the crate to match the theme of the baby shower.

When selecting a base, keep in mind the overall size of your diaper cake and the number of diaper tiers you plan to include. Ensure that the base is large and sturdy enough to support the weight of the diaper tiers and any additional baby items or decorations you intend to add. Also, consider the theme or style of the baby shower and choose a base that complements the overall aesthetic of the diaper cake.

The number of diapers you need to make a diaper cake will depend on the size and design of the cake you want to create. Diaper cakes can vary in size, with some having a single tier, while others may have two, three, or more tiers. Additionally, the size of the diapers used and the method of rolling and stacking will also impact the number of diapers required.

Here’s a general guideline for estimating the number of diapers needed for different diaper cake tiers:

For a larger three-tier diaper cake, you’ll need approximately 50 to 100 diapers. The bottom tier will have the most diapers, the middle tier will have fewer, and the top tier will have the fewest.

If you want to add more baby items between the diaper layers or include larger baby items on the cake, you may need to adjust the number of diapers accordingly. It’s always a good idea to have a few extra diapers on hand in case you need them.

Before you start assembling the diaper cake, decide on the number of tiers you want and plan out the design. This will help you estimate the total number of diapers needed and ensure you have everything ready to create a beautiful and practical gift for the expectant parents.

How To Make a Diaper Cake FAQ's: