“Cloth diapers” used to mean flat rectangular diapers that had to be folded, pinned, and covered by crinkly, plastic pants -- not very comfortable for baby, and a hassle for parents. But cloth diapers have changed! Now there’s a cloth diaper to fit every lifestyle.
If convenience is your priority, you can find all-in-one style cloth diapers that are just as easy to use as disposables. If you prefer natural fibers, you can swaddle your baby’s bottom in beautiful diapers made from hemp, bamboo, or cotton, but fastened with Velcro or snaps (no need for folding!). If you do decide on a more traditional system, you no longer need to worry about using pins with those rectangular diapers, and the “pants” (also called covers, or wraps) are now made from soft, breathable materials including polyester knits, merino wool, and polar fleece.
No matter which style you choose, you will save money over the cost of single-use diapers—anywhere from $500 to $1500 in the first two years. You can even save your first baby’s diapers, to diaper baby #2 virtually for free! But the advantages don’t end there.
While many parents assume that cloth diapers cause more diaper rash than disposables, most parents who switch to cloth find that their children have less diaper rash than before. Also, when you put your baby in cloth diapers, you are avoiding long-term exposure to perfumes and potentially harmful chemicals like dioxins and sodium polyacrylate, all of which are present in most single-use diapers.
Cloth diapers are not only healthy for your baby, but they’re also better for the earth. Disposable diapers account for about one third of our state’s non-biodegradable waste. In contrast, cloth diapers can be used over and over again for years before you throw them out. One baby who uses cloth diapers keeps at least 8,000 paper diapers out of local landfills. That's a whole ton of diaper waste, saved!
And then, there are the aesthetics of cloth diapers. (Aesthetics? Yes!) Cloth diapers today come in a rainbow of colors and styles that you’ll be proud to show off. And, unlike the diapers of previous generations, using them doesn’t have to be a chore—no dunking, no wringing, no bleach-filled diaper pail. Today’s most popular cloth diapers were designed by and for parents just like you.
Whether you’re a stay-at-home mom, or a busy professional, there are a variety of diapers that can work with your lifestyle and your budget.