Abstract: A method and apparatus for maintaining a fastening tab (20) of a hook and loop fastener system in a storage position on an article, such as a disposable diaper (10). The fastening tab (20) has a first end portion (122) for permanent attachment to the article and a distal end portion (126) provided with projecting hook members (30). The distal end portion (126), in a ready position of the fastening tab, stands free from the article. The distal end portion, in the storage position, contacts a surface of the article. The method includes the steps of attaching the first end portion (122) of the fastening tab (20) to the article, and folding the distal end portion (126) of the fastening tab over the first end portion (122) of the tab such that the hook members (30) contact the surface of the article.

Abstract: A disposable diaper comprises a liquid-impervious outer sheet (2), defining a narrower crotch region (27) between two wider end or belt regions (28, 29), an absorbent pad (22), fastening members (24) for closing the diapers, and elastic members (4) attached under tension to the impervious sheet (2) on both sides of the absorbent pad (22), substantially over the whole length of the impervious sheet, with a higher tension in the crotch region (27) than in the end regions (28, 29), having, in the two end regions (28, 29), sections (4c) converging in the direction of the transverse edges of the impervious sheet, so that the elastic members (4) form an elastic barrier which practically surrounds the absorbent pad (22) and provide the impervious sheet both with a lengthwise elasticity in the crotch region and a transverse elasticity in the end regions.