There are two types of parents in the world – those who prefer disposable, and those who prefer cloth.
Which is better? Everyone has their own opinion. We can’t tell you which diaper to pick for your newborn, but we can give you the pros and cons of both. Good luck.
Pros and Cons of Disposable Diapers
- More convenient, especially when travelling.
- All-in-one product – no need for liners, covers, etc.
- Hold more urine, so changes are less frequent.
- The super-absorbent polymer used in diapers can cause irritation or allergic reaction.
- Whisk moisture away from the skin.
- Can be more expensive than cloth in the long run.
- Most disposables (more than 4 million per year in Canada alone, according to Environment Canada) end up in landfill and take hundreds of years to decompose. The untreated human waste in landfills can create a breeding ground for viruses.
- In some cities, disposables can be tossed in the green bin, rather than in the garbage.
- Biodegradable versions like Delora, Seventh Generation and Whole Foods 365 make disposables an environmental choice.
Pros and Con of Cloth Diapers
- Less expensive than disposables, though cost can add up quickly if using a diaper service.
- Do not contain dyes.
- Are considered eco-friendly as you are reusing – but may have an impact on the environment via the energy and water consumed to wash them as well as the type of detergent used.
- Need to be cleaned thoroughly and sanitized to kill all bacteria in the cloth fabric.
- Can purchase flushable liners for cloth diapers, upping the convenience factor.
- Easier to potty-train with as a child can feel the wetness.
- Fewer diaper rashes.
- Some daycares may nix them.
- Tend to leak more than disposables.
Which diaper do you prefer and why? Log in to leave a comment below.
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Top image: Kym McLeod, stock.xchng
