Cloth diapers are making a comeback! See the arguments below for choosing a cloth diaper over disposable.

Environmental

The average child will use 5,300 disposable diapers before she is toilet trained. This is equal to about 600 pounds of fluff and 280 pounds of plastic. In landfills, they sit and mummify, rather than decompose. Disposable diapers are the 3rd largest source of waste in the world, behind newspapers and beverage containers. In Canada and the US, 20 billion disposable diapers are used and put into landfills every year.

Cost Savings

Cloth diapers are a one-time purchase, plus laundering costs. Purchase your one size fitted diapers, absorbent liners, and cloth wipes one time for about $200 - $300. Add in the cost of laundering. The difference in 2 ½ years is about $550 - $800 for cloth diapers vs. $1,900 - $2,100 for disposables.

Eliminate Chemicals

Diapers are made using many chemical bi-products that you wouldn’t want touching your baby’s skin. Sodium polyacrylate is a chemical that is added to absorb liquid and turn your baby’s urine into gel. It has been linked to Toxic Shock Syndrome in tampon use. There aren’t any studies that have been done to determine if there are any long term effects in diaper use.

Earlier Potty Training

Babies in cloth diapers potty train 5-12 months before those in disposable diapers, because they can feel a wet cloth diaper more than a wet disposable diaper.

Reduce Diaper Rash

You heard it here. Cloth diapers actually show a lower occurrence of diaper rash. Many types of diaper rash are caused by dyes and perfumes in disposables. Switch to a cloth diaper for a natural cure for diaper rash.

Conclusion

Your baby will most likely do great in disposable diapers, but if you are at all concerned with the above issues, you should look into a cloth diapering alternative.

Do you want to be caught up on all the latest happenings with your baby? Join SmartMomma Advantage for free! You'll receive your choice of e-mail newsletters, from monthly updates on your baby's development to weekly sales alerts. Stay up to date with the SmartMomma advantage! Join today!

Related Articles

Baby Health: Allergies
Baby Health: Diaper Rash
Baby Health: Diarrhea & Dehydration