Have you thought about using cloth diapers instead of paper diapers for your baby? You’ve probably heard the older generation warn of all the hassle and the rubber pants and the pails of water. Before you take all of that to heart, realize times and cloth diapers have changed drastically since the giant safety pins. While cloth diapers are very different than paper and do require some adjustments, they also have many perks! Here are five advantages of cloth diapers:
1. Environmentally friendly
Cloth diapers are a more sustainable choice compared to disposable diapers, which contribute to landfill waste. Did you know it takes up to 500 years for a paper diaper to decompose? That means every paper diaper ever used is still on the earth. But don’t worry, by the year 2430 the first round will have decomposed completely. Gross, right? I’m not sure how they got the name “disposable” since they can’t actually be disposed of. By opting for cloth diapers, you can significantly reduce your carbon footprint and minimize the impact on the environment.
2. Cost-effective
While the initial investment in cloth diapers may seem higher, they can save you money in the long run. On average, a family will spend $70-$80 per month on paper diapers. Since the average child spends 24 months in diapers, that makes the cost of paper diapers $1,680-$1,920 per child! A decent cloth diaper stash with everything you need can be found for $300-$500 depending on the brand. And that will last through multiple years and multiple babies. They can even be sold to recoup some of the cost or gifted to bless another family and save them hundreds of dollars. I’d like to see a paper diaper do that!
3. Healthier for babies
Cloth diapers are typically made from natural fibers such as cotton, bamboo, or hemp, which are gentle on a baby’s delicate skin. They are free from the chemicals and additives found in some disposable diapers, reducing the risk of skin irritation, rashes, and allergies. They also maintain optimal hip placement as they are thicker in the crotch and guide baby’s legs into that “froggy” position as they grow and develop. No, they do not hinder their crawling or walking skills. In fact, some specialists recommend cloth diapers for babies with hip dysplasia!
4. Reduced diaper rash
Cloth diapers allow for better airflow and breathability compared to their paper counterparts. This improved ventilation can help prevent diaper rash or reduce its severity since the skin is less likely to become overly moist or irritated. Cloth diapers also need to be changed more frequently since they don’t use chemicals to wick moisture away from baby’s skin. Changing a diaper more frequently will avoid rashes and irritation.
5. Increased early potty training
Some studies suggest that using cloth diapers can promote earlier potty training in children. Cloth diapers provide a greater awareness of wetness for babies, making them more inclined to recognize their bodily functions and signals at an earlier stage, potentially expediting the potty training process.
BONUS: Cloth diapers that use snaps cannot be taken off by a rambunctious toddler as easily as a Velcro or paper diaper can. You can avoid awkward poop-n-plays by using cloth!
It’s worth noting that each family’s situation is unique, and the decision to use cloth diapers should align with your preferences, lifestyle, and circumstances. As a mother who has used cloth diapers for six years over multiple children, I highly recommend them!