Multi-tiered structure made from rolled diapers resembling wedding cake, popular baby shower centerpiece/gift. Pinterest phenomenon 2010-2016. Tutorials taught construction: stack rolled diapers in tiers, secure with ribbon, decorate with baby items (pacifiers, toys, washcloths), top with stuffed animal. Combined practical gift with decorative display.
The Pinterest Baby Shower
Peak 2012-2015: every baby shower featured diaper cake. Ranged from simple 3-tier to elaborate castles, motorcycles, characters. Etsy sellers charged $50-200 for custom creations. Contained 50-100 diapers plus gift items - thoughtful practical gift wrapped in Instagram-worthy presentation. Recipient disassembled for actual diaper use.
Decline
Trend faded post-2018 as baby shower culture shifted simpler/smaller and diaper cakes became cliche. Still popular but no longer default centerpiece. Movement toward experience-based showers over stuff. Diaper cake remains Pinterest time capsule of 2010s crafty baby culture - earnest creativity before everything became professionally photographed.