The first few months of parenting can be very hectic. More so if you haven’t set your nursery up to make the feeding and changing process so much easier. Investing in a quality diaper pail is one way to make things easier. When it comes to Munchkin vs Diaper Genie, two very popular brands, which one is better than the other?
While both pails are popular options, I’ve found that the Munchkin has a few advantages that make it my personal favorite. One of the reasons is its superior odor control. Here’s my comprehensive comparison between the two!
What is better: Diaper Genie or Munchkin?
Both Diaper Genie and Munchkin are quality options. Munchkin however is gaining popularity for several key reasons. Generally, Munchkin is more budget-friendly and has been proven to be the No.1 option for odor control. Additionally, both options have a step pedal which allows for easy hands-free operation.
Diaper Genie or Munchkin Pail
With the long list of baby gadgets, clothes and accessories you need to buy, you might be wondering if you need a diaper pail. Aside from making the changing process easier, it saves you from having to go out to the garbage bin at all hours of the night to dispose of dirty diapers.
Here’s how Diaper Genie and Munchkin Pail compare in terms of their features.
Size and Shape
Considering size and shape becomes important when you have a small nursery. Ideally, you want to place your pail as close to your changing table or changing pad on your dresser as possible. You also don’t want it to be in the way.
The Diaper Genie has dimensions of 9.38” x 12.06” x 27” and weighs 8lbs when it’s empty. The Munchkin is slightly bigger at 12.25” x “27.63” x 13” and weighs 12.08lbs.
Seal Types
The way a diaper pail seals determines the level of odor control you can expect. Munchkin features a Patented self-sealing system that has made this pail the top choice for odor control. The Munchkin mechanism also twists the bag to prevent odors from escaping. Diaper Genie boasts Double Air-Tite clamps that work together with a carbon filter to deter odor build-up.
Material
Both the Munchkin and Diaper Genie are made from sturdy plastic. Since plastic pails are often susceptible to retaining odors, it’s necessary to give any plastic pail a good wash with vinegar or baking soda from time to time. Air dry and add carbon filters where possible.
Odor control
One of the top reasons to choose one pail over the other is often its ability to mask the odor. Truthfully, no one wants a smelly nursery. Aside from finding baby-safe air freshener options, you want to make sure your diaper pail isn’t the culprit!
How does the Munchkin pail vs the Diaper Genie compare in the odor department? Munchkins Patented self-sealing system works well to keep odors contained. The Diaper Genie features double clamps to keep the pail tightly closed to prevent odors from escaping. Additionally, the Genie also has built-in antimicrobials to prevent the spread of bacteria. Carbon filters and specially scented refill bags assist in masking odors.
Price
When you’re preparing for your little one, your “to buy” list might be considerably longer. In these instances, budget often becomes a factor. In general, the Diaper Genie is often cheaper than the Munchkin. But, if you have your heart set on the Munchkin, keep your eyes peeled for online or in-store promotion!
Munchkin vs Diaper Genie Refills (Bags)
You can’t choose the ideal diaper pail without considering the refill bags that go along with them. While the pail itself might be affordable, the bags that you need to use with it could end up being quite expensive.
Does your favorite option require special bags? Can you use grocery bags in your pail? Are different bags interchangeable? How do Munchkin vs Diaper Genie refills answer these questions?
Diaper Genie features bags made of 7-layers to minimize odor. Munchkin had bags scented with lavender and baking soda. Alternatively, you can also use ordinary plastic shopping bags in both pails. If you’re opting for this solution, layer a few bags to prevent spills from seeping through.
Do Munchkin refills work with Diaper Genie?
The good news is, Munchkin refills work with Diaper Genie! Both pails can also use regular trash bags as opposed to costly refill options.
Munchkin Step vs Diaper Genie Complete
When it comes to shortlisting your favorite option, it’s important to know the key differences. Read on for the Munchkin Step vs Diaper Genie Complete guide to the differences between the two.
Diaper Genie Complete’s Key Points:
- Refill bags are pre-scented
- Contains opaque film so that you don’t have to see the dirty diapers already in the pail
- Air-Tight clamps to keep odor in the pail
- Contains a carbon filter to aid with an odor masking
Munchkin Step’s Key Points:
- Compatible with Refill Rings and Snap, Seal & Toss Bags
- Patented self-sealing system works by twisting bags after every diaper is added
- Has a sleek, aesthetic look
To see how easy it is to use the Munchkin Step, watch this short clip!
What is better than a Diaper Genie?
While some parents are convinced Diaper Genie is the best diaper pail option, you might not be convinced. Are there alternatives? Are there more budget-friendly choices to consider? You might want to read an article I wrote recently about some Diaper Genie alternatives?
One of the more popular alternative options is the Ubbi Steel. Unlike the Munchkin and the Diaper Genie, the Ubbi is made from steel and isn’t porous. This means those nasty odors won’t get trapped in the pail.
If you’re expecting twins or multiples, you might want to consider a pail with a bigger capacity such as the Playtex Diaper Genie Expressions. Nurseries with smaller spaces will benefit from a more compact pail such as the Dekor Mini Hands-Free Diaper Pail.
Conclusion
As I’ve mentioned before, both Munchkin and Diaper Genie are quality products that’ll get the intended job done.
Diaper Genie is popular because of its superior odor control while Munchkin is a firm favorite because of its built-in antimicrobial properties. Either one of these options will take the stress (and hopefully most of the mess!) out of changing time!