Cloth vs Disposables

The Cloth vs Disposable Diaper Debate

Cloth vs Disposables - The Choice is Clear

Today's cloth diapers are just as easy to use as disposables, but are so much better for baby, your budget and the environment.

Comfortable

Would you rather wear cloth undies, or paper and plastic undies? Cloth diapers are made from cozy, breathable fabrics like velour, microfleece, and cotton knits that surround your little one with softness. Many cloth diapers also have moisture-wicking inner fabrics to provide a stay-dry feeling on baby's bum. No plastic to rub against tender skin or crunchy corners to dig into baby like disposable diapers have. Disposable diaper commercials that advertise a "cloth-like" outer layer are so funny, they know what's most comfortable - real cloth!

Healthful

The fabric used in cloth diapers allows for increased airflow inside the diaper which helps prevent diaper rash and keeps baby cooler. Disposable diapers contain chemicals, paper, and plastic, and have been reported to cause allergic reactions among other serious health problems. Cloth diapers are a more natural choice and are available in organic fabrics that are either untreated, or minimumally treated with chemicals. Children's Health Environmental Coalition (CHEC) HealtheHouse has more information about the health implications of cloth vs disposable diapers.

Economical

Setting up a cloth diaper stash is a big investment, but will save you money in the long run. Depending on the cloth diapering system you choose, you can save from $500-$2000 from birth to potty learning by choosing to use cloth instead of disposable diapers. The Cost of Cloth Diapers by Diaper Decisions compares the cost of several cloth diaper systems to the cost of disposable diapers. In addition, cloth diapering items can be saved for future children, or sold to regain some of your initial investment. Yes, there is a market for used cloth diapers - try that with disposables!

Responsible

Disposable diapers leave a trail of waste and pollution from manufacture to disposal - an average of 2.7 tons of non-biodegradable waste each year, not counting the waste produced during their production. Disposable diaper packaging instructs parents to dump solid waste into the toilet and flush it away, but most parents do not. This means that human fecal matter is going into our landfills where it can leach into groundwater and possibly spread disease. Cloth diapers release solid waste where it belongs - into the sewage system where it is treated with other household waste water. And, cloth diapering products can be used until their diapering life is over, made into rags, then will eventually break down to return to the earth. Here is one "Global Citizen's" thought about the environmental impacts of cloth vs disposable diapers.

Simple

Today's cloth diapers are very easy to use and care for! Most types have elasticized legs and waists, and easy to use closures so they work just like disposables. Different products are available to fit the individual needs of your child and family. Check out Cloth Diapers 101 for detailed information about modern cloth diapering choices.

Irresistable

Once you try cloth diapers, you'll be hooked! There are so many different styles, fabrics, designs, and embellishments available that it's easy to fall in love with cloth diapers. Diaper sets offer cloth diapers with matching dresses or shirts for an adorable ensemble - something you'll never see with disposable diapers. Experiment with different cloth diapering systems for variety, or stick to one for simplicity. Either way, cloth diapers are tons of fun!

Happy Cloth Diapering!

Amy S. Nogar - Owner Zany Zebra Designs, LLC
Cloth Diapering Expert and Advocate

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The Cloth vs Disposables Debate

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