Cloth Diapers Vs Disposable Diapers

Cloth Diapers or Disposable Diapers – The Debate Goes On...Originally intended for the use of babies, diapers have been around for a long time. Ancient diapers consisted of leaves, animal skins, and primitive linens.       

The Birth Of The Cloth Diaper

During the Elizabethan era, a cloth type of diaper began to be used that gradually improved to our present diapers made of pure cotton, cotton blends, birdseye, flannel, bamboo, or hemp, the main considerations being their absorbability and softness. Today, diapers are also used by people other than babies who are afflicted with incontinence or have health conditions that require them to use diapers.

It was during the early part of the twentieth century that diapers took a turn as disposable diapers were born. Towards the second half of the twentieth century, the demand for disposable diapers increased because more and more mothers were joining the workforce.

Cloth Diapers Vs Disposable Diapers

For mothers, it is really a matter of personal choice in determining which of the two types of diapers, cloth or disposable, is best for their babies. But protagonists for each type have engaged and continue to engage in debates trying to convince people to their side presenting various arguments some of which are the following:

Convenience of Disposal

As the name implies, disposal diapers need no washing because they can just be thrown out into the trash box after use. Disposable diapers especially come in handy when traveling as there is no hassle of carrying them around for eventual washing until you reach your next stopover. Cloth diaper advocates, however, argue that cloth diapers have also evolved and manufacturers have come up with diapers that are equally convenient to handle after use. For example, there are now multiple layered diapers with adhesive fasteners complete with flushable liners that can be disposed after use.

Health Issues

Cloth diaper defenders contend that most diaper rashes are caused by disposable diapers. They also argue that many disposable diapers contain toxic and allergy-causing chemicals incorporated in their absorbent gels, dyes, and scents. Some chemicals have been reported to cause problems with the central nervous system, liver, kidneys, headaches, and dizziness. There were also accounts of babies pulling their disposables apart and putting pieces into their mouths or noses, consequently choking on them or ingesting or inhaling toxic components.

Disposable diaper proponents, on the other hand, counter that diaper rashes may also be caused by cloth diapers if the diapers are not immediately changed after use. Moreover, used cloth diapers that are not properly washed or cleaned at once and left to dry in the laundry basket for days may also be a source of diaper rash. Potent laundry detergents are possible culprits, too.

Effect on the Environment

Defenders of cloth diapers assert that disposable diapers pose a danger to the environment because the tons and tons of plastic materials and untreated waste matter and urine that go into landfills and sewer systems can contribute to potential water pollution. On the other hand, disposable diaper advocates claim that the constant washing of cloth diapers can also threaten energy and water supply which is dangerous to the environment.

Impact on the Budget

Promoters of cloth diapers say that cloth diapers are a one-time expense and can be used for several years. Since babies use diapers only for several months, these diapers can be set aside for incoming babies. According to more practical mothers, cloth diapers are cheaper in the long run. The other side, though, argues that constant washing entails additional costs on electricity, water, and detergent. Besides, there is a toll in the time consumed for washing and on the wear and tear of your washing machine and dryer.