The smell of dirty diapers when walking into a home is a tell-tale sign of a new baby and perhaps new parents.
Luckily, deodorizers can combat the smell!
In a sea of products, it is always hard to gauge which product will work best.
But this is what I am here for!
I decided to further explore the options for diaper pail deodorizers. This will help you avoid the same mistakes I did.
In this article, we’ll give you the lowdown on all things pail deodorizer, including:
- What a diaper pail is
- The best home remedies for combatting odors
- Things to look for in a pail deodorizer
- …and Lots more!
So, stick with us as you hold on to that rose-scented candle you bought just so you can get rid of that foul diaper smell.
- What is a Diaper Pail?
- 1 – Munchkin Arm And Hammer Puck Baking Soda Cartridge
- 2 – Playtex Diaper Genie Elite With Carbon Filter
- 3 – Purifyou 100% Bamboo Charcoal Air Purifying Bags
- 4 – Fresh Wave Odor Eliminator With Lavender Fragrance Packs
- 5 – Air Wick Stick Ups Air Freshener
- Buyers’ Guide: Things to Look For When Buying The Best Diaper Pail Deodorizer
- FAQ
- Our Analysis, Comparisons & Test Results
- Our Final Verdict: Best Baby Diaper Deodorizer
- Conclusion: Best Diaper Pails Deodorizers
What is a Diaper Pail?
A diaper pail is a trash can that is specifically manufactured to store dirty diapers.
This includes cloth and disposable diapers.. It can be a grand investment for new parents.
There is the main attribute that differentiates a diaper pail from a regular garbage can: diaper pails prevent nasty odors from escaping and stinking up your home.
We recommend you look for ones with particular heavy-duty sealing.
Here is why you must get one:
For several days at a time, a diaper pail can effectively block out the inevitable smells that come from soiled diapers.
The best diaper pail will reliably seal in the unpleasant odors. This will also bring down the number of times you need to take out the trash.
Plus, it helps to keep odors in before doing your laundry.
You see…
… this is great for especially busy parents. Just throw poopy diapers and close the diaper pail!
We all know we cannot be bothered to do laundry every day. It is for these reasons that diaper pail deodorizer can be an absolute must when you have a baby.
I believe it is truly a worthy investment!
You can make fewer trips to the dumpster and save money on liners..
You also have the added peace of mind that your home does not smell like rampant diarrhea!
Why Do I Need a Deodorizer for Diaper Pail?
The most obvious reason is the smell…
Even if you grow accustomed to the smell, other people may not be. No one wants to have guests over in a smelly house.
Since it is a specialized stink you are trying to maintain, there are just a few diaper-pail-specific deodorizers out there. There are also plenty of house deodorizers that can get the job done easily.
You can have candles and air fresheners all over the house, but the smell can still persist.
Eliminating the smell at the source is the most effective…
Another reason to have a pail deodorizer is to help with unwanted pests. Many bugs like to swarm towards poop or foul-smelling things.
Having a deodorizer can combat this! It works!
In my own experience…
… we found that even though household remedies may work, they can also bring unwanted pests.
Let’s now take a look at the top 5 diaper pail odor eliminators:
1 – Munchkin Arm And Hammer Puck Baking Soda Cartridge
Best Diaper Pail Odor Eliminator With Baking Soda
Arm & Hammer Diaper Pail Deodorizer
Bottom Line: Easy to use, gives a soft smell and works well on preventing bad smells.
Pros
Lasts 60 to 90 days
Provides front line, effective deodorizing
Sticks anywhere you like
Cons
Multi-packs are expensive
Buying one at a time can get tedious and forgetful
This Arm and Hammer diaper pail deodorizer with baking soda cartridge comes in a lavender scent and compact disc shape.
With the simple instructions on the back, you can stick it anywhere you like in the pail – usually on the underside of the pail’s lid.
This is a top baking soda brand, so it is good to know that their cartridges are also reliable.
Keep in mind, though; the upkeep can get costly. If you are a budget buyer, you might want to keep looking for a cost-saving product.
Overall, this is a great product, especially for cloth diaper pails.
Why? It is because the deodorizer does not come in contact with the diapers at all.
This ensures that the baking soda will not irritate your baby’s skin. This is a simple product that can even work on any trash can.
It is a cheap and affordable option that will surely get rid of the stink. You can make your own, but the special design of the cartridge makes this a worthwhile purchase.
Read Full Review: Munchkin Baking Soda Cartridge (Definitive Review)
2 – Playtex Diaper Genie Elite With Carbon Filter
Best Diaper Genie Deodorizer With Carbon Filters
Playtex Diaper Genie Carbon Filter
Bottom Line: These carbon filters help absorb smells around the room without giving any unwanted scent as well.
Pros
4 month stock with each pack
The filters last for 30 days
Carbon filters make it safe for you and your baby
Cons
Created to coincide with the diaper genie pail
Not as effective without the accompanying parts
The best thing about these filters is their longevity with each filter and pack.
With 4 to a box, they come as square packets manufactured with a carbon filter. It will absorb the odor and not try to disguise it with a different scent.
But here’s the kicker…
The only thing to keep in mind with these deodorizers is that they coincide specifically with a diaper pail genie.
That’s said…
..the filters can work on their own or with any other diaper pail but not as effective as they can be with their accompanying parts.
These filters help to trap the odor particles…
This does not give off any unnatural perfume-like smell that can irritate your baby’s nose.
If you are looking for an effective product that traps the smell, this is a great one!
3 – Purifyou 100% Bamboo Charcoal Air Purifying Bags
Best Natural Diaper Pail Deodorizer
100% Natural Bamboo Charcoal Air Purifying Bags
Bottom Line: These bamboo charcoal deodorizer bags are a multi-purpose option that works anywhere around the house and can be charged by placing them under the sun.
Pros
Multi-purposes filters
Biodegradable
Made from a renewable resource
Odorless and hypoallergenic
Absorbs odors rather than traps them
Cons
You will need to use more than one filter at a time
Recharging them in the sun can be a lengthy process
We are living in environmentally aware times. So, any product that tries to cut down on its own waste is worth trying!
These deodorizers are great for anywhere around the house! For example, you can place them in the closets, show racks, cars, trash cans, pails, or even in the pet’s area.
They feature materials like Moso bamboo, which is a highly renewable resource.
You may need to use more than one bag at a time, but the results are reliably effective.
Best of all, you can extend the life of the filters by placing them out in the sun.
This helps to recharge the natural ingredients inside. Each side will take 2 to 3 hours, requiring a little planning ahead of time.
BUT, one thing to note about these purifying bags is the placement. They don’t come with a container to stick it to the pail, but you can tape it onto the bottom of the lid. If you choose to throw them in, make sure to take them out before washing the pail.
If you are looking for a great eco-friendly product and natural room deodorizer, look no further than this.
4 – Fresh Wave Odor Eliminator With Lavender Fragrance Packs
Best Odor Eliminator For Fresh Smelling Diaper Pail
Fresh Wave Lavender Odor Eliminating and Deodorizing Packs
Bottom Line: If you are a fan of the lavender scent, then these multi-purpose fresheners will make your whole place smell like lavender.
Pros
Natural and non-toxic deodorizing with lavender
With a purchase on Amazon, comes a free pod with an adhesive strip that can be placed anywhere
Work for small spaces
Cons
Strong scent for those with sensitive noses
Does not last as long as other leading brands
For fans of the lavender scent, this might be the deodorizer for you.
It features all-natural ingredients, such as pine needles, lime, clove, anise, cedarwood, and real lavender oil for the lavender packs.
They can stick to any surface…
Keep in mind that the longevity of these filters can vary.
Also, for those with strong noses who do not like strong scents, then an odorless deodorizer may be better for you.
The lavender scent may not be for everyone, but the brand has other scents as well.
This product comes with a fresh pod case. This helps to ensure that the actual product does not touch the diapers.
Above all,
Exclusively, with a purchase on Amazon, you will receive a free pod to host the deodorizing bags.
Read Full Review: Fresh Wave Odor Eliminator Review
5 – Air Wick Stick Ups Air Freshener
Best Air Freshener For Diaper Pail
Air Wick Stick Ups Air Freshener
Bottom Line: If you are looking for a long-lasting fresh smell, then these are the best option to go for.
Pros
Each pack lasts 2 months
Available in three different scents
Small enough to be placed anywhere whilst still being effective
Cons
An adhesive may not be reliable.
Strong scents for those with sensitive noses
Air Wick is one of those air freshener brands that have been around forever – and they have become a leading brand in the market.
Their products have always been reliable and effective over time.
That’s said,
..these packs are inexpensive and will last a maximum of 2 months. It is good to be aware that the adhesive on the cartridges is not reliable.
So, you should attach it to your trash can with double-sided tape.
For some reason, the adhesive is not compatible with your garbage bin surface.
Effective and multi-functional..
This stick-on air freshener works on a wide variety of different objects and can be used anywhere in the house. Not only as a diaper pail odor removal.
But, keep in mind that it has a citrus scent, so skip this one if citrus is not for you.
Also, the adhesive may not be working all the time. You will have to attach another double-sided tape for optimal security
This air freshener does a great job of trapping the particles. It also gives off a fresh scent that is not too jarring for your baby.
Read Full Review: Air Wick Stick Ups Air Freshener Review
Buyers’ Guide: Things to Look For When Buying The Best Diaper Pail Deodorizer
How Effective Diaper Pail Deodorizers Are?
This is the most important factor of a diaper pail deodorizer. The worst feeling is buying a product just to find that it does not work.
Effective deodorizers eliminate the smell instead of masking it.
We recommend looking for deodorizers that break down the scent particles. This helps to absorb the smell.
Keep in mind, though,
..having a deodorizer that is more like perfume can be harmful to you and your child.
No one should breathe in those fumes all day.
Are Diaper Pail Deodorizer Safe?
This is also an important factor when choosing a diaper pail deodorizer.
For disposable ones, this is not as important. For cloth diapers, it is crucial to look at the ingredients first.
Since the deodorizer is most likely touching the diapers, any harmful ingredients could end up on your baby.
Even though you are going to wash it before putting it on your baby, certain chemicals can linger.
Seriously…
… deodorants and odor-eliminating products tend to have a lot of chemicals.
A good rule of thumb is to look for more natural products.
We especially love ones that contain essential oils. These scents are more natural and are better to breathe in.
Most importantly, you have to check the ingredients even on natural products. Some sensitive babies can be allergic to certain essential oils as well.
As you can see…
…there are many household tricks you can utilize without breaking the bank.
Your Own DIY Diaper Pail Deodorizer
Since it is a specialized stink you are trying to maintain, there are just a few diaper-pail-specific deodorizers out there.
That being said,
..there are also plenty of simple diaper odor eliminators that can be prepared at home and get the job done easily – without adding any harsh chemicals!
These diy diaper pail deodorizers are the most budget-friendly options out there to block poop diapers’ smell.
Yes, you will always feel like “My house smells good all day long!”…
Utilizing different techniques is a good way to cover your bases. This way, you can find the perfect solution for you.
Baking Soda:
Spreading a little Baking soda in diaper pails can help absorb odor. It is quite the cleaning staple and can help with various applications.
For deodorizing your diaper pail, all you will need to do is sprinkle it at the bottom of the diaper pail.
Also, make sure to change it accordingly every time you take out the trash. Others have also recommended mixing their baking soda with other deodorizing elements.
They work well with things like essential oils. Even without the mixture, baking soda can be a budget-friendly and effective odor neutralizer option to control the smell.
Spraying Vinegar
Spraying vinegar with a spray bottle can be another way to absorb the odor – vinegar kills other smells.
It also mixes well with baking soda to double the effectiveness of deodorizing.
Remember to spray it at the bottom of the diaper pail accordingly. This can sometimes have an adverse effect because some bugs love the smell of vinegar.
Lemons:
Using lemons gives a natural fresh scent.
So simple and easy to prepare..
It can be obtained by scooping out the fruit part and filling it with salt then placing it at the bottom of the diaper pail.
Lemons will now help to absorb the smell from those dirty diapers and prevail over the musty odors!
Dryer Sheets:
Putting one or two of the dryer sheets at the bottom of the pail is another household item that gives fresh scents.
If it can make your clothes smell like a lilac garden, I do not see why it can not make your diaper pail smell the same.
Coffee Filters:
Coffee grounds, in general, are a great nasal palate cleanser, especially in the perfume world.
They are a natural deodorizing element!
However, using a coffee filter may be hard to incorporate. We suggest putting coffee grounds in a tea bag to keep them contained.
FAQ
Q1: How to deodorize a diaper pail?
There are many ways to eliminate odors from coming out of the baby diaper pail. The most common homemade deodorizer is using baking soda (mixed with a few drops of your favorite essential oil) to neutralize the smell. However, some prefer manufactured and scented ones like lavender or lemon deodorizers. The most common ones are listed above.
Q2: How to stop a diaper pail from smelling?
Well, this is the most asked question when dealing with babies. The most effective way to eliminate the odor smells is to get a diaper pail deodorizer. There are plenty of options available on the market to suit your specific needs.
Q3: How to DIY diaper pail deodorizer?
If you are sensitive to the scents or material used in manufacturing the diaper pail odor eliminators, then we recommend you go with the homemade option. We mentioned many ways to DIY a diaper pail deodorizer. Besides being natural, these homemade deodorizers are budget-friendly and almost 100% user-safe.
Our Analysis, Comparisons & Test Results
So, here comes the final result…
Choosing the best diaper pail deodorizer is sometimes a tricky thing to do. There are many options available on the market, and sometimes you may find one brand that offers different options for the same purpose.
Thus, our comparison is about the main features most parents consider when buying baby diaper pail deodorizer, which are:
- Value for money
- Effectiveness
- Easy to use
- Scent
Below, we lined up the 5 best baby diaper pail odor eliminators on the same platform to give you a comparative analysis.
And here you go…
Value for money
So, this part makes you focus on what you are paying for!
When you are looking for this type of item, you must consider the price you are paying to get the job done.
Some come cheaper than others BUT serve better.
That’s being said, we compared the 5 reviewed deodorizers in terms of the value for money consideration to help get what suits you the most.
Let’s now see the results..
The Air Wick Stick Ups Air Freshener came up as the top scorer. It’s an affordable and effective option at the same time. It works really well!
The Playtex Diaper Genie Carbon Filter comes in second place with a special design to fit on the Genie diaper pails, but the overall performance is good and it works with different pail brands as well.
The Munchkin Puck Baking Soda Cartridge and Fresh Wave Lavender Odor Eliminating Packs secure the third spot with their average performance
Unfortunately, the Purifyou 100% All Natural Air Purifying Bags ended up with the lowest score in this segment. At this price, we expected it to offer a better performance. Using more than one to get the job done is not a preferable option for most users.
Effectiveness
The components and materials used to manufacture the deodorizer determine whether this product will eliminate diaper pail odors or not.
When dealing with baby diapering, you need something that makes the mission as easy as possible..
..and the effective diaper pail deodorizer really makes a difference once used!
Here is the comparison result for the effectiveness of the 5 reviewed items
The top performers in this segment are the Fresh Wave Lavender Odor Eliminating Packs, Playtex Diaper Genie Carbon Filter, and Air Wick Stick Ups Air Freshener. They are effective in eliminating the dirty diapers smell from spreading all over the place.
Ease of use
Needless to say, the packing style of the deodorizer is different from one brand to another.
You will find ones that stick inside the diaper pail and some that need to be thrown somewhere near the diaper pail.
This is mainly a personal preference choice!
But once used, you will notice that some are easier to use than others
Take a look at the comparison results below..
The Air Wick Stick Ups Air Freshener ended up as the lowest performer in terms of the ease of use. It doesn’t stick to the objects good enough to stay still for a long period.
The Purifyou 100% All Natural Air Purifying Bags also is not as easy to use as the other reviewed items. Recharging them under the sun is not a feasible option for most users.
Scent
Ok! So this is the most interesting part of the comparison!
Some users think that the stronger the scent is, the more effective the deodorizer is!
No! This is not always true..
Needles to say, we all want our diaper pail smelling fresh all day long!
You may get an odor eliminator with a strong scent, but then you find that this scent doesn’t last, is too strong, or the deodorizer itself doesn’t get rid of the dirty diaper smell.
Let’s see the comparison results below..
The Purifyou 100% All Natural Air Purifying Bags reserved the top place in this segment along with the Playtex Diaper Genie Carbon Filter.
They both come unscented and cause almost NO irritation to those who have sensitive noses!
Our Final Verdict: Best Baby Diaper Deodorizer
You’ve almost made it to the end of the review..
It’s time for you to stop and check out the final results and get rid of the stinky diaper smell
We have all 5 baby diaper pail deodorizers lined up here based on their performance.
All of them are safe to be used for babies! All you have to do at the moment is to pick the one that best suits your need and budget
Then here you go!
| Product | Rating out of 5 |
| Playtex Diaper Genie Elite With Carbon Filter | ⭐ 4.25 |
| Munchkin Arm And Hammer Puck Baking Soda Cartridge | ⭐ 3.5 |
| Fresh Wave Odor Eliminator With Lavender Fragrance Packs | ⭐ 3.5 |
| Air Wick Stick Ups Air Freshener | ⭐ 3.5 |
| Purifyou 100% Bamboo Charcoal Air Purifying Bags | ⭐ 3.0 |
Conclusion: Best Diaper Pails Deodorizers
Time to summarize the results now..
There are plenty of choices out there when it comes to choosing a diaper pail odor eliminator – from home remedies to manufactured products.
Honestly, there is an effective solution for every parent!
The best part about manufactured deodorizers is that they are usually multi-functional.
Be mindful that it might take some trial and error before finding your favorite diaper pail deodorizer!
That’s being said..
It is time to take a look at our editors’ choice, the best value, and top pick options:
- The Editors’ Choice goes to: Munchkin Puck Baking Soda Cartridge
- The Best Value goes to: Playtex Diaper Genie Carbon Filter
- The Top Pick goes to: Fresh Wave Lavender Odor Eliminating Packs
Hopefully, this list will help make the process less convoluted. We hope to give all parents a helpful starting point.
Related: Baby Cologne: Keep Your Baby Fresh With These 8 Soft Fragrances