Choosing diapers can be something of a minefield. The
good news is that there are now plenty of options, and you can make
informed choices that are right for you and your family.
Whatever you choose, remember that babies go through 10 or more diapers a day in the early weeks, and you’ll need to be prepared Don’t buy too many of the same size—babies grow very quickly Some parents mix and match, choosing to use disposables while out and about and/or at night, and cloth diapers the rest of the time
Cloth diapers
ProsYour baby will be wearing soft, natural fibers next to her skin
They come in a range of colors and styles
Velcro-closing reusable diapers are now available
Despite the larger initial investment, they are cheaper in the long run Cloth diapers produce less waste, and use fewer raw materials
ConsWashing produces a lot of waste water, and uses cleansing agents and chemicals; however, on balance, reusables do less environmental damage than disposables
Washing can be time-consuming
They take time to air-dry, and using a tumble dryer undermines their environmental advantage Your baby will need to be changed more often, as reusables tend to be less absorbent You will need to purchase accessories such as liners and covers You will have to carry wet and soiled diapers home when you are out
Disposable diapers
Pros
They are more convenient
They do not require any additional accessories
They are super-absorbent, so fewer changes are required
They cause fewer cases of diaper rash
They often fit better, with fewer leaks Biodegradable versions made from natural materials are now available
Cons
They are much more expensive
They require proper disposal
They produce high levels of waste, causing a negative environmental impact
They usually contain manmade chemicals
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