Cloth Diapers
Babies create a mess – a lot in fact. But that is not enough reason for parents to grab the most convenient solution available in order to address this problem.
Cloth diapers may be losing its popularity to the disposable type. However, it is still a fact that cloth diapers are considered to be the most practical and the most earth-friendly option.
Baby cloth diapers have been around for as long as anyone can remember. However, these have drastically evolved to provide babies and parents with more benefits than ever before. One advantage is that fact that it is a healthier alternative. The disposable diapers are filled with chemicals and other materials which are known to cause certain physical issues, such as diaper rash. Rashes are brought about by allergens in chemicals, insufficient flow of air, and a prolonged exposure to wet diapers since most of these feel dry even if they are actually wet.
Another benefit has something to do with the environment. Cloth baby diapers are supposed to be reused, thus, the environment does not have to make room for a lot of potential trash. Cotton diapers of high quality can be used even beyond 100 washings, and may even be set aside for future babies. Some people challenge this notion, and cite the use of energy in washing the baby cloth diapers. However, it should be noted that the energy consumed during washings is only a tiny bit compared to that used in disposables. Further, cloth diapers may be recycled as rags beyond their “diaper life”.
Cost is a huge factor of choice. Several studies have been conducted to show cost comparisons between cloth diapers and disposable ones. Although results are varied, majority found out that the use of cloth diapers laundered at home means greater savings for parents. Savings estimates are between $800 and $1600 in a periods of 2.5 years, or roughly, 6000 nappy changes.
Right now, cloth diapers are available in three various styles: fitted, all-in-ones, and flat. The fitted style is basically the same as the contour diapers, plus an additional “elastic” feature. The waistbands, as well as the holes for the legs, are sewn with elastic to give a comfortable but snug fit, necessary to prevent leakage. Fitted diapers typically come with sewn-in closures, doing away with the diaper pins. This style of diaper is more costly than the flats, with prices ranging from $5-$7 each.
The all-in-one baby cloth diaper comes with a sewn-in waterproof cover. What makes it convenient is the fact that only a single item is required in every nappy change. Closures like Velcro or snaps are also adjustable to provide better comfort. All-in-ones are most appropriate for use when at the mall, day care centers, and other places which may require quick diaper changes.
The flat style of cloth diapers are the traditional piece of cloth folded to give a good fit, and held on in place using diaper pins. The flats are further classified into two: pre-folded, and contoured. The pre-folded ones are those which come with an extra layer at the middle, while the contoured flats are those which offer a better or a more contoured fit. Since contoured are form-fitting, they don’t feel bulky under the bay’s clothes. Flats are the cheapest of all cloth diapers. They can be bought at around $20 a dozen.
Diapers are used to take care of the baby’s mess. Although most people desire ease and convenience more than anything else, it is also important to think about whether or not they are actually making more mess than the one they are trying to clean up.