Most of the parents nowadays ask, “Are cloth diapers better than disposable diapers?” Cloth diapers are almost the same as disposable diapers. The cloth diaper fibers absorb liquids while the solids remain on top, and the waterproof layer prevents leaks.
Some parents say purchasing a cloth diaper for a single child is costly. However, if you have the means and plan to have multiple children, cloth diapers may be a good investment. Others say that the expenses on using cloth diapers and disposable diapers are almost the same. But it is much economical to use a cloth diaper. When deciding which diaper (cloth or disposable) to use, we should not just think about the savings but also other benefits.
Diaper Decisions: Cloth Diapers vs. Disposable Diapers
Are cloth diapers better than disposable diapers? Most of us think of using disposable diapers because they are more convenient, and we are already used to that idea. The purpose of using something other than a disposable diaper maybe has never crossed your mind. To help you decide which is better, or which one is suited for you and your baby, take a look at the following details:
Health and Comfort
Disposable diapers are more breathable than cloth diapers; however, their moisturizing, absorbent chemicals sometimes irritate the babies. On the other hand, the cloth diaper has a softer feel that babies might prefer.
Convenience
Both disposable diapers and cloth diapers are convenient to use. Cloth diapers like disposable diapers have Velcro or snap closures, making changing time quick and easy. Cloth diapers also come with designs that will fit the baby, waterproof bands on the waist and legs to prevent leaks so that they will work like disposable diapers. The only downside of the cloth diaper is that it is not as absorbent as the disposable diaper, so there is a need to change them more often.
Cost
An average family usually spends from $2000 to $3,000 for two years on disposable diapers per baby. Using a cloth diaper and accessories cost about $800 to $1,000 per baby if you wash the cloth diapers yourself. However, if you choose to go with a cloth diaper laundering service, the cost with become $2,500 to $2,800, which is closer to the cost of using a disposable diaper. But if you plan on having multiple children, investing in cloth diapers would be good.
Environment
We might think that using a disposable diaper is not environment friendly as using a cloth diaper. Remember, although disposable diapers use resources like trees and plastics during manufacturing, then it adds in landfills; cloth diapers also use water and energy and produce dirty water as well.
Considering the above list, you can now decide which one suits you and your baby in the long run.
Common Myths About Cloth Diapers
Are cloth diapers better than disposable diapers? Though most people say much about cloth diapers, we should not believe in all the things they say, especially if those people did not even use a cloth diaper. Following are the nine common myths about cloth diapers:
- Cloth diapers are too expensive
- Cloth diapers are complicated and inconvenient
- Daycares won’t let you use cloth diapers
- You have to choose between cloth diapers or disposable diapers
- You will have to touch poop if you use cloth diapers
- Cloth diaper laundry is too much work
- Cloth diapers are not really environment friendly
To answer the question, are cloth diapers better than disposable diapers? Make sure to validate before believing in something because it might affect your judgment and may lead to wrong decisions in the future. Remember, always weigh things accordingly before deciding on what to use for your baby. Put the baby’s needs and safety first; consider the family’s budget in every decision that you make to ensure that everything is taken into consideration. Know more about cloth diapers.
Conclusion
It doesn’t matter if you choose to go for cloth diapers or disposable diapers. Nowadays, manufacturers are developing to make their products social and environmentally friendly. With this, no one will no longer ask, “Are cloth diapers better than disposable diapers?” When choosing, do not just look into the cost and savings. Choose what’s best for your baby, and the comfort these diapers will bring them.