What is a diaper cake, a popular baby-shower centerpiece, made primarily from?

A diaper cake, a popular baby-shower centerpiece, is made primarily from rolled diapers.

The diapers are arranged in circular tiers so the finished display resembles a layered celebration cake. Ribbon, rubber bands, or decorative wrapping can hold the tiers together, while baby toiletries, socks, bibs, and small toys may be added as decorations or gifts. Despite its name, a diaper cake is not edible.

The centerpiece became popular as baby showers developed into highly themed social events, particularly in the United States and Canada. It combines presentation with usefulness: after the shower, the parents can disassemble it and use the diapers.

A diaper cake should not be confused with a diaper cake made from cloth nappies, which is a variation rather than a separate tradition. The defining feature is the cake-like arrangement of diapers, not a particular brand, color scheme, or number of tiers.