Choosing the right diaper supplier is one of the most important decisions for importers, retailers, and private label brands. The quality of your supplier directly affects your brand reputation, customer satisfaction, and long-term market growth. However, purchasing managers often overlook key questions that reveal whether a manufacturer is truly reliable.

Here are 10 essential questions every buyer should ask before selecting a diaper supplier — along with why each question matters.

1. What test reports can you provide?

A trustworthy supplier should offer complete laboratory test data, including:

• absorption capacity

• rewet level

• acquisition time

• SAP percentage

• tensile strength and leakage test

If a supplier cannot provide data, the product’s real performance is unknown.

2. Are your materials compliant with EU or local chemical safety standards?

European markets require strict compliance with regulations such as REACH and OEKO-TEX Standard 100.
Ask for:

• chemical safety reports

• OEKO-TEX certificates

• documentation showing no harmful substances

Compliance issues may lead to customs delays or costly recalls.

3. What brand and grade of raw materials do you use?

The quality of SAP, fluff pulp, non-woven fabric, elastic, and backsheet film determines most of the product’s performance.

Key brands to look for:

• SAP: Sumitomo, BASF

• Pulp: Weyerhaeuser, GP

• Non-woven: quality-controlled spunbond or hot-air

Low-grade materials often result in leakage complaints.

4. What is the structure of your absorbent core?

A core directly affects absorption speed and leakage protection.
Ask whether they use:

• composite core

• channel core

• double-layer core

• SAP distribution technology

Knowing the structure helps you compare suppliers scientifically.

5. What production machines do you use?

Machine level determines product stability.

Important points:

• servo level (full servo or semi servo)

• production line brand

• detection sensors

• waste control systems

Old or semi-manual lines often cause inconsistent products.

6. What is your defect rate and QC process?

A professional factory has strict quality control steps, including:

• raw material inspection

• online monitoring (AI sensor or camera detection)

• sampling for every batch

• final product testing

Ask for their acceptable defect rate and how they manage non-conforming goods.

7. Can you provide full cartons, not only pre-selected samples?

Loose samples are often hand-picked.
To understand real performance, always test:

• one full carton from the production line

• consistency across multiple pieces

• sealing, odor, SAP distribution

This exposes any hidden quality issues.

8. What is your experience in exporting to our target market?

Different markets (EU, Middle East, Africa, Southeast Asia) have different regulations, absorbency preferences, and packaging norms.

An experienced supplier can guide you on:

• compliance

• competitive product specs

• packaging requirements

• shipping documentation

Experience reduces your operational risk.

9. What OEM/ODM services do you provide?

For private label brands, supplier capability is crucial.

Ask whether they support:

• packaging artwork design

• brand positioning suggestions

• product specification customization

• small MOQ for market testing

A strong OEM/ODM partner shortens your product launch time.

10. What is your production capacity and delivery time?

Delays can disrupt your entire supply chain.

Ask about:

• monthly production capacity

• peak-season stability

• emergency orders

• backup production lines

A large and stable capacity ensures reliable supply.

Conclusion

Asking the right questions helps purchasing managers avoid hidden risks and choose a long-term strategic partner rather than just a supplier. A reliable diaper manufacturer should offer:

• transparent test data

• strict compliance

• stable production equipment

• professional QC

• proven export experience

• strong OEM/ODM capabilities

These are the foundations of high-quality products and sustainable business growth.