The Ultimate Guide to Diaper Cake Materials: What You Need and Where to Source Them

Planning a baby shower gift that’s both adorable and useful? A diaper cake is the perfect centerpiece—it looks like a tiered celebration cake but is made entirely of baby essentials. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a first-time crafter, knowing exactly what materials you need and where to source them can save you time, money, and frustration. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential diaper cake supplies, from the diapers themselves to the decorative ribbons and accessories, and share tips for choosing high-quality, gentle products for the baby.

The beauty of a diaper cake is that it’s a gift within a gift: after the party, the new parents can unwrap and use every single component. That means every material you choose should be both functional and baby-safe. We’ll cover the best types of diapers, wipes, and toiletries to include, plus where to find them—including some of our favorite Honest products that are gentle on sensitive skin.

Choosing the Right Diapers for Your Cake Base

The foundation of any diaper cake is, of course, the diapers. You’ll need a large quantity—typically 50 to 100 diapers depending on the size of your cake (a three-tier cake uses about 60-80 diapers). When selecting diapers, prioritize absorbency, fit, and skin-friendliness. Newborn diapers are popular for the top tier, while sizes 1, 2, or 3 work well for the bottom tiers. Look for diapers that are free of harsh chemicals, lotions, and fragrances to avoid irritating a baby’s delicate skin.

For a premium touch, consider using Honest Diapers. They are made with plant-based materials and a chlorine-free core, and they come in adorable prints that add a decorative element even before you add ribbons. Their gentle construction makes them a safe choice for babies with sensitive skin. If you want to create a cake that’s especially practical for overnight use, you can incorporate a few Clean Conscious™ Overnight Diapers, Cozy Cloud, Size 6 for older siblings or as a bonus gift—just roll them separately and attach to the cake as decorative toppers.

• Roll each diaper tightly and secure with a small rubber band before arranging them in tiers. This keeps the cake stable and uniform.

Essential Diaper Cake Supplies Beyond Diapers

While diapers are the star, you’ll need a few more items to turn them into a cake. A sturdy cardboard base (like a round cake board or a thick piece of cardboard covered in wrapping paper) provides stability. You’ll also need elastic bands or small hair ties to hold rolled diapers in place, plus a hot glue gun and glue sticks for attaching decorations. Ribbons, tulle, and decorative flowers add color and hide the rubber bands. Don’t forget a cake topper—like a small plush toy or a wooden sign—to finish the look.

To make the cake extra useful, fill the gaps with small baby essentials. Little Flushables are a fantastic addition: these gentle, septic-safe wipes can be tucked between diaper rolls or used to wrap the tiers. They’re made with plant-based fibers and are free of alcohol and harsh chemicals, making them perfect for a new parent’s diaper bag. You can also include a travel-sized Shampoo + Body Wash, Refresh to give the cake a spa-like touch—its mild, tear-free formula is ideal for newborns.

• Use a large rubber band around each tier before wrapping with ribbon to keep everything secure while you work.

Sourcing Baby-Safe Toiletries and Accessories

Adding toiletries to your diaper cake elevates it from a simple diaper tower to a complete baby care kit. Think gentle lotions, shampoos, body washes, and diaper creams. When sourcing these items, always check for hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and dermatologist-tested labels. Products designed for sensitive skin are best, as many babies react to synthetic fragrances or dyes. You can find these items at baby boutiques, online marketplaces, or directly from brands that specialize in clean ingredients.

A great option to include is the Gentle Gel Cleanser, a mild face and body wash that’s perfect for a baby’s first baths. Its non-stripping formula cleans without drying, and it’s safe for even the most sensitive skin. Another thoughtful addition is the Body Oil, Sensitive, which can be used for baby massages or to moisturize dry patches. Both products come in travel-friendly sizes that fit neatly into a diaper cake tier. For a finishing touch, add a small tube of diaper cream or a baby comb—these small extras show you’ve thought about the parents’ daily routine.

• Wrap liquid products in a small cellophane bag and secure with a ribbon to prevent leaks from ruining the cake.

Where to Find the Best Diaper Cake Materials

You can source diaper cake materials from a variety of places. Big-box stores like Target and Walmart offer affordable diapers and wipes, but for higher-quality, eco-friendly options, consider specialty baby brands. Online retailers like Amazon have a wide selection, but shipping costs can add up. For a curated, one-stop-shop experience, The Honest Company’s website is a fantastic resource. They carry everything from diapers and wipes to bath products and lotions, all formulated with clean ingredients.

When shopping for diapers, look for bulk packs to save money. Honest Diapers are available in value boxes that contain enough for a large cake. You can also mix and match prints for a colorful look. For wipes, Little Flushables come in multi-packs that are easy to distribute across tiers. And don’t forget the extras: a Shampoo + Lotion Duo makes a lovely gift set that can be placed on top of the cake or included as a separate bonus. By shopping from a single trusted brand, you ensure consistency in quality and ingredient safety.

• If you’re on a budget, use coupons or sign up for a brand’s newsletter to get first-time buyer discounts.

Creating a diaper cake is a fun, rewarding project that results in a memorable and practical baby shower gift. By choosing high-quality, gentle materials like Honest diapers, wipes, and toiletries, you’re not only making a beautiful centerpiece but also giving new parents products they’ll feel good about using. Start gathering your supplies, roll up those diapers, and enjoy the process—the happy parents will thank you! For a complete set of baby-safe essentials, explore the Honest Diapers collection to find the perfect base for your next diaper cake.