Choosing Cloth Diapers: More Than Just Better For the Environment
Does this photo look like what you pictured a cloth diaper to be? For me, my perception of cloth diapers were just this: a piece of cloth and a couple of safety pins holding it in place.
I was recently asked to contribute to a shower gift for a friend to ensure she received two months of cloth diaper service. Having two children go through regular store-bought diapers and a third in pull-ups currently, I decided to find out why people choose cloth diapers over more traditional ones. I figured it was solely based on being more environmentally friendly, but to my surprise, there are actually several advantages:
Less Money: While you may pay more upfront for cloth diapers, since you are reusing them, in the long run, you save money.
More Styles: Disposable diapers come in different sizes, but are basically the same with fitted sides and tab closures. Choosing cloth diapers allows you several choices. You can choose from more traditional pre-folded to fitted diapers with snaps and Velcro closures to one-size-fits all diapers. Plus, they come in several different colors and patterns.
More Fabric Options: While disposable diapers vary slightly in material, according to Diaper Answers: they are made of cellulose, polypropylene, polyethylene and a super absorbent polymer, as well as minor amounts of tapes, elastics and adhesive materials. Choosing cloth diapers allows you to select materials like: bamboo, cotton, hemp, modal and polyester.
More Uses: When using traditional diapers, you will also need wipes. Extra cloth diapers can double as wipes and also be used for burp cloths.
Less Diaper Rash: Babies with super sensitive skin or allergies, may develop less diaper rashes than in traditional diapers.
Less Late Night Diaper Runs: There are several cloth diaper services that deliver diapers to your door each month, pick up dirty diapers and deliver new ones. Here is a site you can visit to find a service in your area: Real Diaper Industry Association.
Less Time in Diapers: According to some parents, using cloth diapers will help toddlers potty train faster because they will be able to tell when they are wet.
Do you use cloth diapers? What are your reasons? Please leave your comments or thoughts below.
