As a new parent, the decision of whether to use cloth diapers or disposables is an important one. Each choice has its advantages and drawbacks, and it's crucial to consider them thoroughly.
Cloth diapers have become increasingly popular lately due to their perceived environmental benefits and cost savings. However, it's worth exploring whether they are better than disposables. Taking a closer look at the various factors involved can help you make an informed decision.
Environmental Impact
One of the primary reasons parents choose cloth diapers is their environmental impact. Disposable diapers contribute significantly to landfill waste, taking hundreds of years (approximately 500) to decompose fully. Disposable diapers create 3.4 million tons of waste in US landfills yearly, says the EPA. Furthermore, the production of disposable diapers requires large amounts of water, energy, and raw materials, contributing to carbon emissions and deforestation.
Parents use cloth diapers repeatedly, radically reducing waste. Although washing cloth diapers requires water and energy, research indicates that the ecological impact is lower than that of disposable diapers. A study published by DEFRA in 2023, shows that cloth diapers have a much smaller carbon footprint than disposable diapers.
Cost Considerations
When deciding on diapering options, cost is an important consideration. Cloth diapers require an initial investment that is higher than disposable options. We recommend parents try different types, such as AIOs, pocket diapers, and AI2/cover diapers. This way; when they choose a specific system, they know exactly what fits their baby's best.
Although this may seem more expensive at first, it's essential to weigh the long-term cost benefits. It's important to consider the financial implications before making a decision.
Over time, families can save a considerable amount of money by using cloth diapers. Disposable diapers can cost around $1,500 to $3,000 for a child from birth, until they potty train.
Cloth diapers will cost anywhere between $300 to $600, depending on the style selected. Families with multiple kids can save more money with reusable diapers, unlike disposables which need to be purchased again and again. Parents can also opt to sell their cloth diapers once they are no longer needed, recovering some of their initial cost.
Health and Comfort
Another factor to consider is the impact on your baby's health and comfort. Disposable diapers absorb moisture to make babies less aware of wetness and delay potty training. These diapers usually contain chemical additives that reduce unpleasant odors and keep the baby's skin dry. These chemicals remain on the baby's skin for the first three years of their life.
Modern cloth diapers like Lighthouse Kids, are made with cotton, and bamboo fabrics. They have better air circulation and are less prone to causing diaper rash. Parents concerned about allergies or sensitivities often prefer cloth diapers due to their lack of harsh chemicals, unlike disposable diapers.
Parents can choose to use the Stay-Dry side of the Lighthouse Kids diaper insert for naps and night-time, or the bamboo side so baby can feel wet. This can lead to body awareness and help with potty training.
Convenience
One area where disposable diapers excel is convenience. They are widely available in stores, making them easily accessible for parents on the go. Disposable diapers are convenient for travel and childcare, they are easy to use and caregivers are usually familiar with them.
Cloth diapers, on the other hand, require more effort and planning. Washing, drying, and stuffing diapers (if using pocket cloth diapers) adds an extra step to parents' laundry routine. And for most caregivers, modern cloth diapers are still somewhat of a new concept.
We recommend all-in-one diapers or hybrid systems if your baby has a caregiver. This will make it easier for them to understand how the diaper works since it is more similar to disposable diapers.
So Are Cloth Diapers Better Than Disposable Diapers?
Yes, cloth diapers contain fewer chemicals, produce less waste, and add up to big savings. Parents must decide what's more important in diapering: convenience or sustainability. Disposables are easy but have a bigger environmental impact.
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