6 Advantages and Disadvantages of Cloth Diapers

The battle between cloth and disposable diapers has been going on for a long time. Both have pros and cons, and in the end it is the parents who can decide which one is best for their baby. To help you weigh your decision better, here are some of the major advantages and disadvantages of using cloth diapers.

List of Advantages of Cloth Diapers

1. They are cost-effective.
Initially, disposables can be cheaper than reusable diapers. But in the long run, you will see how cloth diapers can help you save. You can buy a couple of sets at once, and reuse them until your little one doesn’t need them anymore. And when another bundle of joy comes along, you won’t have to spend for diapers again if the ones you have are still in good condition.

2. They are more environmentally friendly.
Disposable diapers end up in landfills and take about 200 years to fully decompose. On the other hand, cloth nappies are made from natural materials and can be reused, so they have less of a harmful impact on the environment.

3. They come in a variety of fabrics and designs.
Before, moms would have to deal with perfectly folding the cloth and using dangerous pins to keep them in place. Today, that’s not the case anymore. Cloth diapers now come with removable linings (for easier changing and washing), Velcro and snap closures, and well-designed shapes so you can easily slip them on your little one. There are also plenty of brands that use organic fabrics that contain lesser chemicals and substances that can cause rashes and other health problems for infants.

List of Disadvantages of Cloth Diapers

1. They are not convenient when traveling.
Some cloth nappies may not be as absorbent as disposable ones so you need to change them more often. When on the road or on long trips, this can be quite a hassle. Not to mention the issue of hauling around a bag full of dirty and wet diapers.

2. They require more energy to change, wash, and clean.
Taking care of your baby is already a handful, so adding dozens of cloth diapers to your laundry load can be a heavy chore. You also have to make sure they are properly washed and dried to keep them sanitary. You have the option to use a laundromat, but that would mean additional expenses. Of course, this inconvenience will be only until your child is potty trained or doesn’t need diapers anymore.

3. They can increase your utility bills.
If you are going to wash the nappies at home, then be prepared to pay more for your electric and water bills. Using disposable diapers will also have its own advantages and disadvantages so the winner can only be declared by you. Some parents may be die-hard fans of one or the other, while some mix using both kinds. Base your decision on your needs and priorities and do additional research. With the amount of baby products available today, there is something for everyone.