When making the decision between using cloth or disposable diapers, parents need to consider the expense, materials, environment, and convenience
Those who favor disposable diapers are typically very emphatic about their opinions. Many people feel that their child will not have as many diaper rashes if they wear disposable diapers because the moisture is absorbed into the diaper material and away from the baby's skin. People also believe that babies typically do not get as many diaper rashes from disposable diapers.
There are several products that make disposing of disposable diapers easier. Some people love the sealed canisters that will store several used diapers virtually odor-free until they can be thrown away. Others love the powdered bags that used diapers can be tied up in.
Disposable diapers are easy to use when you and baby are shopping, traveling, or just spending an afternoon or day away from home. You can pack several diapers and some wipes. When your baby has soiled a diaper, you simply throw it away. Because there isn't anything to wash, you do not have the extra expense of washing the diapers, including extra detergent and a higher water bill.
Some people who are in favor of disposable diapers point out that diaper delivery services are actually guilty of putting more pollution into the air. They also point out that cloth diapers aren't chemical free because people often wash their diapers in a chlorine/detergent mixture. Thus, a baby is still exposed to chemicals, especially if the cloth diaper isn't washed properly.
On the other hand, cloth diapers have come a long way from the cloth diapers of the past. There is no longer any need for diaper pins as many cloth diapers have Velcro closures. You can also purchase diaper covers that can be washed repeatedly. Many cloth diaper users believe that they spend much less on detergent and water bills than they would on disposable diapers.
Because most cloth diapers are cotton or a cotton blend, they are considered "breathable" material, and, if laundered properly, they are chlorine free. Parents who favor cloth diapers point out that disposable diapers have perfumes and dyes that can cause allergic reactions to children.
Because disposable diapers absorb so much urine, it can be difficult to determine that your baby's diaper needs to be changed. Bacteria can build up, however, and the bacteria can also cause diaper rashes.
You can purchase diaper liners for the cloth diapers. If you use the liners, then you shouldn't have to rinse your diapers, making the process of using cloth diapers easier and less messy.
Finally, cloth diaper supporters point out that these diapers are environmentally friendly. Disposable diapers are filling the landfills, and it takes years for a disposable diaper to break down. Because cloth diapers are reusable, it doesn't take as much material to produce cloth diapers as it does disposables.
There will probably always be the debate concerning which diaper is better, cloth or disposable. It still comes down to each individual's own preference. You can try both and decide for yourself.
