In-depth reviews guided by a Pediatrician

Luvs Review

Inexpensive option with possible leaks and only average absorption
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Price:   $0.16 List | $0.26 each (in 204-pack) at Amazon
Pros:  Comfy, budget-friendly
Cons:  Disappointing leakage and average absorption
Manufacturer:   Luvs
By Juliet Spurrier, MD & Wendy Schmitz  ⋅  Jul 28, 2017
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46
OVERALL
SCORE

RANKED
#19 of 22
  • Absorption - 40% 5
  • Leakage - 20% 5
  • Comfort - 15% 7
  • Health - 15% 1
  • Eco-friendly - 5% 2
  • Durability - 5% 5

The Skinny

Luvs is an inexpensive, somewhat comfortable diaper that has below average test results in almost every metric. With absorbency and leakage performance that is below much of the competition, this diaper may fail you when you need it most, which could lead to possible wet clothes and potential diaper rash. If a diaper can't keep liquids locked away, then it isn't accomplishing the primary goal of a diaper. Even if you are willing to accept the unimpressive test results, it has other problems, including poor eco-friendliness, baby health, and durability. No matter what you are looking for, there is probably a diaper out there that does it better.

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Our Analysis and Test Results

Luvs is owned by Proctor and Gamble, which also makes Pampers diapers. Luvs is based on the idea that you do not need to pay more for a diaper to find a great diaper that works well. Luvs offers a money-back guarantee if you are not happy with their diaper compared to another brand you've used. Luvs believes that once you are an experienced parent, you'll use Luvs over other brands because it saves you money with the same level of quality and function.

We also tested Luvs brand diapers in size 4 in our overnight diaper review. In our absorption tests using the size 4, the Luvs option performed better than they did in size 1. In the Best Disposable Diaper Review, we focused on finding a great diaper for newborns and younger infants. In contrast, the overnight review focuses more on older babies and those wearing size 3+ diapers with increased nighttime eliminations.

Performance Comparison


The tabs on the Luvs diapers were the coziest parts with no pokiness or sharp edges.
The tabs on the Luvs diapers were the coziest parts with no pokiness or sharp edges.

Likes


After testing, there isn't much to love about Luvs. In fact, with only two exceptions, this diaper scored below average in every metric but comfort and absorption where it eked out average results. It isn't even the least expensive option with several diapers costing less with higher overall scores. That said, we do like the lower price.

This diaper came in about the middle of the pack for comfort. The tabs and cuffs are the best part and very skin-friendly with relatively soft fabric.

Luvs earned an average score for absorption with test results that weren't terrible but weren't impressive either.
Luvs earned an average score for absorption with test results that weren't terrible but weren't impressive either.

Luvs also earned an unimpressively average score for absorbency. However, given the lower than average scores, overall, it is still a "like" for us. On the upside, the absorption results were at least consistent without some of the wide variations we saw in the Pampers products that are made by the same company. Because the absorbency is subpar, baby's tushie may be continually wet, which could result in skin irritation and diaper rash.

Luvs earned a 5 of 10 for leakage which is below the average and online reviewers indicate that leaks were a problem when using this diaper.
Luvs earned a 5 of 10 for leakage which is below the average and online reviewers indicate that leaks were a problem when using this diaper.

Dislikes


We didn't like the test results for leaks. This diaper earned a below-average score for leaks. It had more run-off during testing than some of the competition, and online reviewer accounts have a significant percentage mentioning leaking problems. For a diaper that has a money-back guarantee for leaks, this is disappointing. Some of the green diapers earn the high for leakage in this review.

Luvs doesn't provide a full disclosure of what materials were used and how they can affect the environment or your baby's health.
Luvs doesn't provide a full disclosure of what materials were used and how they can affect the environment or your baby's health.

We didn't like that Luvs, much like Pampers, isn't trying that hard to be eco-friendly or limit irritants or chemicals that come in contact with the baby with very low scores for both ecology and health. If your baby has sensitive skin or you have concerns about the environment, then this diaper is not the one for you.

This diaper is free of elemental chlorine, which prevents dioxins, but it doesn't state it is totally chlorine-free (TCF). It is latex-free but doesn't comment on other common irritants like dyes, perfumes, and lotion. The diaper has a print and a strong odor, so we assume it has all three. We'd prefer if Luvs and Proctor and Gamble had a full disclosure list so parents could make informed purchases. Luvs also doesn't disclose any nods toward the environment, and it makes no claims for biodegradability of diapers or packaging, and it doesn't appear to use renewable resources. Given that many other brands are moving in this direction, it is disappointing to see such a large company ignore the possibilities.

Luvs is an inexpensive diaper with below average test results in most metrics.
Luvs is an inexpensive diaper with below average test results in most metrics.

Conclusion


Luvs diapers leave a lot to love, even at the lower price. This diaper is average in most respects, with several individual metric scores coming in below average. While it has an average score for absorption, the lower leakage score indicates this diaper could result in unwanted messes and baby bottom irritation. If a diaper doesn't absorb or prevent leaks, then it isn't doing its job. If you combine this with the lower scores for ecology and health, you have a diaper that doesn't meet any objective.

— Juliet Spurrier, MD & Wendy Schmitz