by Diapers are absorbent garments worn by babies, toddlers who are not potty trained, and by children too young to use the toilet confidently. Disposable diapers are constructed of waterproof materials, usually plastic, that flush liquid waste into an absorbent core made from paper pulp or polymer gels. The global diaper market caters to both disposable as well as cloth diapers. The use of cloth diapers has been declining with the rise of modern families and increasing health awareness.
The global diaper market is estimated to be valued at US$ 107.6 billion in 2024 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 9.0% over the forecast period 2024 to 2031, as highlighted in a new report published by Coherent Market Insights.
The global diaper market is driven by factors such as increasing global birth rate, growing working women population, increasing disposable income, and rising awareness among parents about child hygiene. In addition, increasing penetration of e-commerce channels and rising adoption of eco-friendly diapers due to environmental concerns are some of the major trends witnessed in the global market. However, high cost of premium diapers restricts the overall market growth. The global diaper market provides ample opportunities for players as demand for eco-friendly diapers and gender-neutral diapers is on the rise.
Market Dynamics:
One of the key drivers for the diaper market referred from the heading is increasing birth rate globally. As per United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the current world population stands at approximately 7.9 billion and is expected to reach around 8.5 billion by 2030 and 9.7 billion in 2050. This consistent increase in world population will propel the demand for diapers, thus driving the market growth. Disposable diapers are considered more hygienic and convenient option for modern parents with hectic lifestyles. Rising women workforce participation globally has increased the demand for disposable diapers. Further, increasing disposable incomes in developing regions of Asia Pacific and Latin America provide impetus to premium and super-premium diaper brands. Eco-friendly diapers made from plant-based materials are gaining traction due to rising environmental awareness.
Segment Analysis
The diaper market is segmented into baby diapers and adult diapers. Baby diapers accounted for approximately 75% share of the overall market in 2024. Baby diapers provide convenience for parents or caregivers while changing babies which has made it the dominating sub-segment. With increasing birth rates and higher spending on baby care products, the baby diapers segment is expected to continue dominating the market over the forecast period.
PEST Analysis
Political: The market is favorably impacted by supportive government policies and investments related to healthcare and sanitation across various countries.
Economic: Rising disposable incomes have positively impacted spending on baby and adult diapers across major economies. Additionally, sales are forecast to increase with growing elderly population globally requiring adult diapers.
Social: Changing lifestyles, increasing awareness about hygiene, and growing working women population have boosted demand for both baby and adult diapers. Moreover, growing number of nuclear families prefer convenient absorbent products.
Technological: Manufacturers are investing in research & development to develop advanced products with skin-friendly materials, indicators for wetness, and eco-friendly packaging. This is positively impacting sales and increasing brand loyalty.
Key Takeaways
The Global Diaper Market Size is expected to witness high growth over the forecast period supported by rising incomes, increasing awareness, growing elderly population, and launch of innovative products. The global diaper market is estimated to be valued at US$ 107.6 billion in 2024 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 9.0% over the forecast period 2024 to 2031.
Regional analysis: North America accounted for the largest share of over 30% in the global diaper market in 2024 led by the US. However, Asia Pacific region is projected to emerge as the fastest growing market during the forecast period. China and India offer immense growth potential owing to their large population base and rising disposable incomes in the region.
Key players: Key players operating in the diaper market are Svenska Cellulosa AB, DSG International Ltd., First Quality Enterprises, Inc., Kimberly-Clark Corporation, Abena A/S, Attends Healthcare Products, Inc., Unicharm Corporation, Kao Corporation, Ontex Group, Chiaus (Fujian) Industrial Development Co Ltd. These players are focusing on new product innovations catering to various demographics, expanding their presence across global markets, and carrying out strategic mergers and acquisitions to strengthen their market position.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
