Many parents today use disposable diapers because they are so much easier.  You don’t have to worry about folding a cloth diaper, fumble with pins, or put on covers after the diaper.  Studies estimate that today, 80% of all diapered babies are using disposables.  But, are disposable diapers really that much better than cloth diapers?

Take a close look at the cost of disposable diapers.  Do the math – after you purchase the diapers, figure out how much each diaper costs.  Then figure out how many you use each week and multiply that by 52 weeks in a year.  It will add up to a lot of money.  It can cost you as much as $2,000 to $3,000 just to use disposable diapers on your child until the age of 3.  If you compare that to the cost of cloth diapers, you will see they are much less expensive.  Initially the cost may be more when you first buy the cloth diapers, but in the end, you will see the savings.

If you think of how many people are using disposable diapers, it can be overwhelming.  Those diapers are placed in landfills each year and they aren’t biodegradable.  They take up tons of space and are bad for our environment.  Because of the urine and feces, the landfills become hazardous waste that contains harmful bacteria.

Most middle-aged people grew up during a time when there was no alternative to cloth diapers.  Even some younger people grew up with cloth diapers because the disposable diapers were giving them rashes.  Cloth diapers may actually be more soothing on your baby’s bottom and thus cause less irritation and rashes.  Diapers contain dioxin, which some studies have shown to cause cancer, birth defects, liver damage, skin diseases, and genetic disorders.  While the disposable diapers may be easier and more convenient for you, are they really what is best for your child?

Cloth diapers have gotten much more convenient since the 50s.  There are now cloth diapers that come all-in-one – with the plastic cover included.  Some have snaps instead of annoying pins, so you don’t have to worry about the baby getting suck.  There are fitted cloth diapers that are better at preventing leaks and there are wool covers that replace the uncomfortable plastic.

Before you make the choice between cloth or disposable diapers, take a look at all the facts.  Using cloth diapers can help you protect the environment as well as save you money AND they are safer for your child.