Mikayla Gilkey - Mar 2023

Cloth Diapers and the Environment

Cloth diapers are not a new invention, but rather a time-tested and sustainable option for caregivers all around the globe. As our society becomes more aware of the impact that our actions have on the environment, many people are looking back to cloth diapers to help get us there. Cloth diapers have a number of benefits, some of which I will cover below/

Why Cloth Diaper

Reusable. Cloth diapers are reusable. Unlike disposable diapers, which are used once and then thrown away, cloth diapers can be washed and reused many times. This means that they create much less waste than disposable diapers, which can take hundreds of years to decompose in landfills. Additionally, cloth diapers have a carbon footprint that is 40% smaller than disposable diapers.

Natural. Cloth diapers are made from natural materials. Many disposable diapers contain plastic and other synthetic materials, which can take hundreds of years to decompose and can release harmful chemicals into the environment as they break down. Cloth diapers, on the other hand, are typically made from cotton or other natural fibers, which are biodegradable and less harmful to the environment.

Cost. Cloth diapers are cost-effective. While the upfront cost of cloth diapers may be higher than that of disposable diapers, in the long run, cloth diapers can save you money. By reusing cloth diapers instead of buying disposable ones, you can significantly reduce your diapering costs over time. The cost of a  cloth diaper stash that can last your child through potty training can easily be minimized to $200-$300. Disposibles on the other hand for the same time period can cost over $1000.