New York, NY – Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal (D/WF - Manhattan) announced today that her first-in-the-nation law requiring ingredient listings on all packages of diapers sold in New York State goes into effect December 11, 2025.The law applies to packages of both baby and adult garments and was sponsored in the State Senate by Cordell Cleare. 

“Beginning today, consumers will have easy access to the list of ingredients used in the diapers they buy for their babies,” said Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal (D/WF – Manhattan). “For too long, a variety of harmful chemicals and additives have been used by manufacturers, potentially exposing babies and adults' sensitive skin to painful skin irritation, blistering and other health effects. This common-sense transparency measure will help New Yorkers select the products that are right for them.”

During the first year of a child’s life, they may use as many as 2,000 diapers. New York is the first state in the country requiring the disclosure of the ingredients used in diapers. Over the years, researchers have identified dozens of potentially harmful chemicals in both children’s and adult garments, including volatile organic compounds, phthalates, formaldehyde, parabens and bisphenols. Long-term exposure to these ingredients has been linked to damage to the liver and kidneys as well as the endocrine and central nervous systems. Other additives, such as synthetic fragrances and dyes, are commonly used in diapers despite being known as allergens than may cause skin rashes.

Under the law, manufacturers must now include a plain and conspicuous list of all ingredients, in order of predominance, on diaper packaging. If violations are found, the Office of the Attorney General may impose penalties on the manufacturer of up to $1,000 per package.

Implementation of this law follows Rosenthal’s 2019 law requiring the labeling of ingredients used in menstrual products. That requirement, also first-in-the-nation, has since been implemented by manufacturers in other states, bringing ingredient transparency to consumers far beyond New York State.

“Children are especially susceptible to harm and irritation from some of the hidden ingredients in diapers,” said Assemblymember Rosenthal. “Parents should have this information at the ready and be able to choose the products they know will be safe for their families. Whether it is menstrual products or diapers, there should never be secrets about the ingredients used on the most intimate parts of our bodies.”