Best Diaper Pails of 2026

Bonnie Salem Avatar
Bonnie Salem
Last Updated: Jan 19, 2026

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Diaper pails have become a staple in many households with young children. These specialized bins are designed to keep dirty diapers contained and out of sight, reducing unpleasant odors and messes. With various options available on the market, parents can choose from traditional pails that require disposable liners or newer models that use reusable cloth liners. Some diaper pails even feature odor-blocking technology or hands-free operation for added convenience. Overall, a good diaper pail can make a big difference in keeping a home clean and comfortable for both parents and little ones.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Ubbi Steel Odor Locking Diaper Pail Cover #TOP 1
Ubbi Steel Odor Locking Diaper Pail
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Diaper Genie Complete Diaper Pail Cover #TOP 2
Diaper Genie Complete Diaper Pail
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Munchkin® Step Diaper Pail with Odor Control Cover #TOP 3
Munchkin® Step Diaper Pail with Odor Control
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Diaper Pails

#TOP 1

Ubbi Steel Odor Locking Diaper Pail

Ubbi_Diaper_Pail
White
One Size
Ubbi Steel Odor Locking Diaper Pail Cover
Ubbi Steel Diaper Pail, Odor Locking, No Special Bag Required, Award-Winning, Registry Must-Have, White

The Ubbi Steel Odor Locking Diaper Pail is an award-winning, modern design and registry must-have for parents. Unlike other diaper pails on the market, it saves you money and time as it doesn't require any special bags, refills or inserts. Its steel construction locks in odor, keeping the smell shielded inside. The pail is ready to use out of the box, simple to use, and not prone to breakage. The childproof lock keeps little hands from finding their way inside.

What We Like
Uses standard trash bags
Excellent odor control
Durable steel construction
Sleek modern design
Easy one-handed operation
What We Don't Like
Higher initial cost
Small opening size
#TOP 2

Diaper Genie Complete Diaper Pail

00073800023293
White
Pack of 1
Diaper Genie Complete Diaper Pail Cover
Playtex Diaper Genie Complete Pail with Built-In Odor Controlling Antimicrobial, Includes Pail & 1 Refill, White , 8.36 Pound

The Diaper Genie Complete Diaper Pail offers hands-free convenience with its foot pedal-activated lid. It features Double Air-Tite clamps and a deodorizing carbon filter that seals in smells and provides added odor protection. The built-in antimicrobial in the diaper pail refill bags prevents germ transmission and bacterial growth on the film. This diaper pail comes with a refill that can hold up to 270 newborn sized diapers and is easy to clean without rusting. It is a baby registry essential and the perfect gift for any baby shower or registry!

What We Like
Excellent odor control
Easy to use
Hygienic and clean
Compact and space-saving
Dog-proof and child-safe
What We Don't Like
Slight odor when opening
Occasional durability concerns
#TOP 3

Munchkin® Step Diaper Pail with Odor Control

15901
White
5 Piece Set
Munchkin® Step Diaper Pail with Odor Control Cover
Munchkin® STEP™ Diaper Pail Powered by Arm & Hammer, #1 in Odor Control, Award-Winning, Includes 1 Snap, Seal & Toss™ Bag, 1 Starter Refill Ring, and 1 PUCK™ Baking Soda Cartridge

The Munchkin® Step Diaper Pail Powered by Arm & Hammer is a top-rated diaper pail, awarded Best Overall Diaper Pail in 2020 by Good Housekeeping Institute. Its patented self-sealing system helps to contain odors, whether the lid is open or closed, and it can use both Refill Rings and Snap, Seal & Toss Bags. The set includes a Starter ring refill and a Lavender scented baking soda puck. With a step pedal for hands-free opening, this pail measures 27” high x 12” deep. Additionally, for every Step Diaper Pail sold, Munchkin will plant a tree.

What We Like
Excellent odor control
Easy to use one-handed
Sturdy sealing mechanism
Works with off-brand bags
Large capacity
What We Don't Like
Potential odor if overfilled
Replacement pucks pricey
#TOP 4

Diaper Dekor EKO Classic Diaper Pail

2-11221
White
Classic
Diaper Dekor EKO Classic Diaper Pail Cover
Diaper Dekor EKO Classic Diaper Pail, White | ONLY Eco-Friendly Diaper Pail Made with 70% Recycled Materials | Hands-Free: Step–Drop–Done | Cost-Effective Refill System

The Diaper Dekor EKO Pail is designed for eco-conscious parents, featuring a hands-free operation that lets you step, drop, and be done with diaper changes efficiently. Made from 70% recycled materials, it helps you contribute to a greener planet. The durable plastic body ensures easy cleaning without the rust issues that metal pails face. Additionally, it comes fully assembled with a refill that can hold up to 495 newborn diapers, allowing for frequent emptying without wasting trash bags. This pail not only simplifies diaper duty but also supports sustainable practices for your family.

What We Like
Odor control
Simple hands-free operation
Easy bag changes
Compact and space-saving
Durable design
What We Don't Like
Occasional brief odor when opening
Minor hinge or part issues
#TOP 5

Diaper Genie Classic Diaper Pail Gift Set

White
One Size
Diaper Genie Classic Diaper Pail Gift Set Cover
Diaper Genie Classic Diaper Pail Gift Set | Push-N-Lock Odor Control | Includes Starter Refill and Jumbo+ Refill | Holds up to 1,245 Newborn Diapers | Baby Registry Must-Have

The Diaper Genie Classic Pail offers excellent odor control with its special refill bags and a locking clamp, keeping your nursery fresh by trapping smells inside. Its compact design fits neatly in any nursery but still holds up to 55 newborn diapers, saving you space without sacrificing capacity. You’ll appreciate the easy one-handed operation, which lets you open, dispose of, and close the pail quickly—perfect for busy parents during diaper changes. Plus, the gift set comes with extra refills that can hold a combined total of 1,245 diapers, so you won’t need to replace bags often. This makes diaper disposal cleaner and more convenient for you every day.

What We Like
Excellent odor control
Easy to use and set up
Large capacity
Versatile for pet waste
Good value for money
What We Don't Like
Mild smell occasionally
Proprietary refill cost
#TOP 6

Diaper Genie Signature Pail with Easy Roll Refill

White
One Size
Diaper Genie Signature Pail with Easy Roll Refill Cover
Diaper Genie Signature Gift Set | Includes Easy Roll Refill with 48 Bags | Holds Up to 2256 Newborn Diapers, Plastic

The Diaper Genie Signature Pail offers excellent odor control, thanks to its special clamps that lock in unpleasant smells, keeping your nursery fresh. It includes two Easy Roll refills with 48 tear-off bags, allowing you to manage up to 2,256 newborn diapers without frequent changes, saving you time. The hands-free foot pedal lets you open the pail easily without bending down, making diaper disposal quick and hygienic. Plus, these refills use less plastic compared to traditional options, which makes the pail a more eco-friendly choice. Overall, the Diaper Genie Signature Pail provides convenience, cleanliness, and environmental benefits for busy parents.

What We Like
Excellent odor control
Easy to use
Hands-free operation
Convenient refill storage
Sleek design
What We Don't Like
Occasional refill availability issue
Rarely missing refill pack
#TOP 7

Diaper Genie Complete Diaper Pail

BD231
White
1 Count (Pack of 1)
Diaper Genie Complete Diaper Pail Cover
Diaper Genie Registry Gift Set | Includes Diaper Genie Complete Diaper Pail, 8 Refill Bags, 1 Carbon Filter | Perfect Starter Kit

The Diaper Genie Complete Diaper Pail is the ultimate solution for controlling odor while disposing of your baby's dirty diapers. With its foot pedal-activated lid, you can easily open the pail without bending over, ensuring convenience and hygiene. The multi-layer film of the diaper refill bag not only locks in dirty diaper odor but also prevents the spread of germs and inhibits bacterial growth. Each continuous refill ring can hold up to 270 newborn-sized diapers, reducing the number of trips to the trash can. Additionally, the carbon filter absorbs and neutralizes strong odors, keeping your nursery smelling fresh. Trusted by over 2 million parents, the Diaper Genie Complete Diaper Pail is a must-have baby registry essential and makes for the perfect gift for any baby shower or registry.

What We Like
Odor control
Large storage capacity
Easy to use
Hands-free operation
Comes with accessories
What We Don't Like
Refill cost
Partial odor leakage
#TOP 8

Ubbi Stainless Steel Diaper Pail

10037
Taupe
One Size
Ubbi Stainless Steel Diaper Pail Cover
Ubbi Stainless Steel Diaper Pail, Odor Locking, No Special Bag Required, Award-Winning, Registry Must-Have, Taupe

The Ubbi Steel Diaper Pail offers excellent odor control thanks to its durable powder-coated steel body and rubber seal, keeping your nursery smelling fresh. You won’t need to buy special bags since it works with any regular trash bag, saving you money and hassle. Its sliding lid opens and closes smoothly while limiting air flow to trap odors inside, and a childproof lock ensures little hands stay out. Plus, it comes in stylish colors that fit any nursery décor, making it both practical and attractive for parents.

What We Like
Locks in odors effectively
Uses any regular trash bag
Durable steel construction
Childproof locking lid
Attractive color options
What We Don't Like
Occasional odor when opening
Child lock may be bypassed
#TOP 9

Diaper Genie Select Pail with Jumbo Refills

Gift Set
Lily White
Diaper Genie Select Pail with Jumbo Refills Cover
DG Select Pail Gift Set with 2 Jumbo Refill (810CT) US 1/CS

The Diaper Genie Select Pail makes keeping your nursery fresh and clean easier. It can hold up to 40 newborn diapers, so you won’t have to empty it too often. The special Push N Lock clamp helps keep unpleasant odors sealed inside, making your nursery smell better. Its sturdy stainless steel design includes a foot pedal, allowing you to open the pail hands-free, which is very convenient when you’re holding your baby. Plus, the soft-closing lid means less noise so your little one can sleep peacefully. With two jumbo refills included, you can store a large number of diapers without frequent refills, saving time and effort.

What We Like
Excellent odor control
Easy bag change system
Thick, durable bags
Modern, discreet design
One-handed operation
What We Don't Like
Lid sometimes stays open
Bags run out quickly
#TOP 10

Ubbi Adult Diaper Pail Steel White

10800
White Adult
One Size
Ubbi Adult Diaper Pail Steel White Cover
Ubbi Adult Diaper Pail, Steel Odor Locking, No Special Bag Required, Awards-Winning, Modern Design, White

The Ubbi Steel Diaper Pail offers a sturdy and stylish stainless steel design that fits well in any room while lasting a long time. You don’t need special bags since it works with any standard tall kitchen trash bag, saving you money and hassle. It also keeps bad smells locked inside thanks to its unique sealing system and odor disk holder, so your space stays fresh. Plus, the magnetic lid is easy to open with one hand, making diaper disposal quick and simple for you. This makes the Ubbi Steel Diaper Pail a convenient choice for managing adult diapers efficiently.

What We Like
Excellent odor control
Uses standard trash bags
Large capacity
Easy to clean
Durable construction
What We Don't Like
Slightly high price
Plastic ring feels flimsy
Buying Guide Image

How to Select Diaper Pails: The Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

As a new parent, choosing the right diaper pail can seem like a daunting task. There are so many options on the market, all claiming to be the best at containing odors and preventing leaks. But with a little bit of research and consideration, you can find the perfect diaper pail for your needs.

Consider Your Diaper Changing Routine

The first thing to consider is how you plan on using the diaper pail. Do you plan on throwing away diapers after each change, or do you plan on waiting until the pail is full to dispose of them? If you plan on disposing of diapers after each change, you'll want to choose a pail with a smaller capacity. On the other hand, if you don't mind waiting until the pail is full to dispose of diapers, you can opt for a larger capacity pail.

Think About Odor Control

One of the main reasons parents choose to use a diaper pail is for the odor control it provides. Nobody wants their home to smell like dirty diapers, so it's important to choose a pail that can effectively contain odors. Some pails use special lining or bags to help prevent odors from escaping, while others use activated carbon filters to absorb odors. Consider which type of odor control system will work best for you and your home.

Look for a Pail with a Tight Seal

Another important factor to consider is the seal on the pail. A pail with a tight seal will help prevent leaks and spills, which can be especially important if you have pets or small children who may be tempted to poke around in the diaper pail. A tight seal will also help prevent odors from escaping, keeping your home smelling fresh and clean.

Decide on a Manual or Automatic Pail

There are two main types of diaper pails on the market: manual and automatic. Manual pails require you to open the lid and drop the diaper in, while automatic pails have a mechanism that opens the lid for you and seals it after the diaper is dropped in. Automatic pails can be more convenient, especially if you have your hands full with a squirming baby. However, they can also be more expensive and may require batteries or electricity to function. Decide which type of pail will work best for your needs and budget.

Consider the Size and Shape of the Pail

Another important factor to consider is the size and shape of the pail. You'll want to choose a pail that fits easily in your diaper changing area and won't take up too much space. If you have limited space, you may want to opt for a smaller pail or one that can be hung on the wall. You'll also want to consider the shape of the pail and whether it will be easy to fit larger diapers or wipes inside.

Look for a Pail with Easy Disposal

Finally, consider how easy it will be to dispose of the diapers from the pail. Some pails have a foot pedal that allows you to open the lid without touching it, which can be especially convenient if your hands are dirty or full. Others have a simple latch or button that you can use to open the lid. Choose a pail with a disposal system that will work best for you and your changing routine.

Conclusion

Choosing the right diaper pail can seem overwhelming, but by considering your diaper changing routine, the type of odor control you need, the seal on the pail, the type of pail you want, the size and shape of the pail, and the ease of disposal, you can find the perfect pail for your needs. Don't be afraid to try out a few different options before making a final decision – it's better to take the time to find the right pail for you than to end up with a pail that doesn't work for your needs. And remember, even the best diaper pails will need to be emptied and cleaned regularly to keep them functioning at their best. With a little bit of effort, you can find the perfect diaper pail that will help keep your home smelling fresh and clean, even with a new little one in the house.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is it worth getting a diaper pail?

Because they're designed to lock in the formidable odor of soiled diapers, these containers help reduce unpleasant odors. You'll be using your diaper pail from day one and into toddlerhood, so it's an investment that lasts years.

2. How many diaper pails do I need?

Depending on size, diaper pails may hold between fifteen and fifty diapers. Average size pails will typically hold between thirty-five and forty diapers, plus a bunch of dirty baby wipes (we review the best baby wipes here). So, parents will want to consider how often they will need to empty the diaper pail.

3. How long should you keep a diaper pail?

Many diaper pail manufacturers suggest cleaning about every three months, but any parent who's dealt with a stinky diaper pail will tell you it would be better to clean about once a week.

4. How often do you empty diaper pail?

A pail should need to be emptied at most twice a week, based on capacity. We expected the pails we tested to hold at least 20 size-4 (or about 45 newborn-size) diapers. At the same time, the pail should have a compact footprint.

Editor's Notes

During our diaper pail research, we found 24 diaper pail products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 404,048 customer reviews through our big data system to write the diaper pails list. We found that most customers choose diaper pails with an average price of $59.13.

The diaper pails are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of diaper pails, including Ubbi, Diaper Genie, Munchkin, Diaper Dekor. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Bonnie Salem Avatar

Bonnie Salem is a stay-at-home mother with two-year-old twins and has spent almost half of her life surrounded by baby products. As a mother and a professional copywriter, she has an insightful and unique eye for researching products suitable for infants. Bonnie Salem is an expert in health and nutrition who lives with her family in New Jersey. She has over 15 years of working experience in an institute of medicine after graduating from the University of Toronto. She is highly interested in personal health and wellness.

Diaper Pails Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Ubbi Diaper Genie Munchkin Diaper Dekor Diaper Genie Diaper Genie Diaper Genie Ubbi Diaper Genie Ubbi
Capacity 13 Gallons 6 Gallons 13 Gallons 15 Liters - 47 load 270 Milliliters 13 Gallons 2 Gallons 13 Gallons
Color White White White White - White White Taupe Lily White White Adult
Material Alloy Steel Plastic Plastic Plastic - Plastic Plastic Stainless Steel Stainless Steel Stainless Steel
Recommended Uses For Product Baby Diaper Disposal Baby Waste Baby Waste Indoor - Fecal Protection Baby Waste Baby Waste Indoor Adult Diapers
Opening Mechanism Sliding Top Step-On Step-On Step-On - Step-On - Open-Top Step-On Manual-Lift
Shape Cylindrical D-Shaped Cylindrical Oval - Rectangular - Rectangular Square Cylindrical
Special Feature Odor Seal Odor Seal Baby Registry Favorite Quiet Close - - - Child Proof, Odor Seal - Odor Seal
Finish Type Powder Coated Polished Smooth Polished - - - Powder Coated - Powder Coated
Room Type Nursery Kids Room - Bedroom - - - Nursery - Bathroom
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.8
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