Have you ever spotted a terrible tape job and cringed? Or how about giggled when a non-ABDL friend has said, "it depends." Regardless of your experience with taping diapers, we have a six general tape tips to share!
We all have different preferences regarding diapers, whether you prefer plastic-backed or cloth-backed, printed or plain, thick or thin. However we can agree on the want and desire for comfort. No one wants to be stuck wearing something restricting, uncomfortable, or even painful. While you may think that ordering the correct size is all you need when finding the perfect fit, there are many aspects to consider to avoid sticky situations or in some terrible historic cases, tapes that do anything but stick! Below are some general tips to consider when trying new diapers and to find the perfect fit.
Welcome to step one! Most fail before this step: finding the right size and ideal diaper fit. Big or small, there's a size for everyone! However, not all diapers are created equal; one brand's medium may fit you perfectly, while another brands' medium size might be so big it SWALLOWS YOU WHOLE!
Don't be that ABDL that thinks they know their size and buys a whole case that don't fit and then have to pawn them off on their ABDL pals! Your wallet will thank you! "Diapers are expensive, Yo!"
Diaper companies will list a range of waist lengths for each diaper size, and these will get you pretty far, but they're not always perfect. If you're in between sizes or unsure of your waist size, most companies offer sample packs of one or two diapers that will allow you to test the fits of different sizes and prints without committing to an entire case. Even if you know what size you'll need, it's good practice to order a sample before trying any new diaper to make sure it's right for you.
Tapes are also an essential factor in getting the most comfort out of your diapers. The most common tape set-ups are two-tape (one large tape on each wing) and four-tape (two smaller tapes on each wing). Four-tape diapers give you a bit more control regarding the snugness your diaper fits but sacrifice the more "babyish" look and feel of two-tape diapers. Neither tape preference is necessarily "better" or more comfortable. Much of your comfort will come from personal preference and body type/shape, so it's good to sample both options to find your preferred style!
In addition to the number of tapes, there are two different varieties of adhesion; hook-and-loop & sticky tapes. While neither affects the fit or comfort directly, hook-and-loop are more forgiving if readjustments are needed as they won't lose their grip on the panel no matter how many times they're adjusted. While sticky tapes can also be altered, once they've been in place for more than an hour or so, they will lose most of their grip or tear the diaper's outer layer if removed. Hook-and-loop is a must if you require temporary removal of the diaper and the ability to put it back on again.
While it may not seem important, the position you're in when changing your diaper can affect its snugness and fit. Many people find that laying a diaper flat on a changing table, bed, or on the ground helps achieve the best fit; others prefer standing flat against a wall and diapering that way. If you plan on frequently wearing, we recommend you become comfortable changing standing up if there isn't a changing area nearby.
Getting changed by another person, whether it be a significant other, caretaker, or friend, can be a remarkable bonding experience, but it can sometimes be challenging to communicate your preferred diaper fit. It may take a few attempts but don't be afraid to suggest your preferences in the process. A diaper should be comfortable, soft, and not restricting or painful. If you need to adjust by yourself afterward, that's okay!
Materials can play a significant role in how comfortable a diaper is to wear, especially for extended periods. Cloth-backed diapers tend to be more breathable but are generally thinner and will need to be changed more often. Plastic-backed diapers have a more comprehensive range of thicknesses, both in the absorbent material and plastic itself, but are louder and less discrete. Sample packs are a great way to see whether you like a diaper's material as many different plastics vary between each diaper brand. Some diapers may be too thin, too loud, or may even cause chafing depending on the individual and the activity, such as wearing to the gym or on a hike—preferences regarding what diapers to wear and when is commonplace among seasoned ABDL's or incontinent diaper enthusiasts.
Stuffers and layering can also change the fit and comfort of a diaper. Too much thickness may cause some discomfort while sitting or laying down, especially to the legs and spine. This is especially noticeable while diapered for car rides, airplane adventures, and confined seating or spaces. We recommend being mindful of thickness while sitting for extended periods as the added absorbent material will expand with use. If you're in pain, don't be afraid to change early or experiment with less thickness. Cater the experience to you and your comfort.
When you first unpackage diapers from the bag, they are smooshed and well packed. We recommend letting your diapers air from the package as they will breathe and fluff over time. Releasing diapers from the package helps increase wicking and quick absorbency. Another key feature of the diaper is the leak guards. Upon opening and unfolding a fresh diaper, two leak guards run down the right and left side of the diaper's inner core. We recommend loosening these leak guards from the diaper before diapering up. Often leak guards need to be pulled away from the core to work at their best as they come pressed from the factory.
If you have other tips, tag us @GoPretendAgain on Twitter or Instagram and let us know! We love community tips and encourage you to share! :D
