Disposables are laden with chemicals which have been associated with many physical problems. Diaper rash also increases with disposable diaper use due to allergies to chemicals, poor airflow, and longer time spent in wet diapers which feel dry when wet.

Cloth diapers are reusable. Quality cotton diapers will hold up for 75 – 100 washings (at minimum), and can be saved for the next child. Although energy is required for washing the diapers, it is a fraction of the energy used for disposables. Cloth diapers are also recyclable, making excellent cotton rags in their ‘afterlife’.

Many studies have compared the costs of disposables diapers vs cloth washed at home, and cloth diapers provided by commercial diaper services. Results vary, but most agree that the cost of cloth diapers, home laundered, is considerably lower than buying disposables.

Estimates range from $800 – $1600 in savings over the 2 1/2 years, and 6000 diaper changes, of diaper use. Using a commercial diaper service, depending on which study you consult, is either comparable to, or a little less expensive, than using disposables.

Waterproof covers are used over flat or fitted diapers. The most common cover is the plastic pull-up which is inexpensive and lightweight, but not breathable. Covers are available in the following materials:

• Plastic covers are the least expensive but do not last particularly long, especially if run through the dryer. They eventually crack and tear.
• Nylon covers, a bit more expensive, are also lightweight, but less susceptible to tearing. To avoid chafing, be sure the cover has brushed or coated elastic around leg and waist.
• Wool covers are now available which are breathable and comfortable. They are not as waterproof as the plastic covers. However, they are water-resistant.
• Fleece covers are another breathable cover option, especially for those babies with wool sensitivities.
• Polyester covers are waterproof and breathable, as well as long-lasting. They come with a brushed outer finish for a soft texture.

Polyester, wool and fleece covers also come with snap or Velcro closures, so you can put them on without having to pull them up over the feet. This is handy when the baby has pants and shoes on. These covers also come in a variety of colors and designs, so your baby can look stylin’ even in diapers!

Liners can be added to the diaper, on the inside, for extra absorbency. This is useful for overnights and naps when you don’t want to wake the baby for a diaper change. Liners are available as reusable or as throw-aways. Reusable liners often have a facing of polyester which helps prevent diaper rash because they stay drier against the skin.

Inserts are pads which can double the absorbency of the diaper. They are bulkier than liners, and useful for overnight or longer periods between diaper changes.

Washing and caring for your cloth diapers is much simpler than it used to be. Here are the basics:

• After changing, deposit the solid contributions into the toilet and throw the diapers into a diaper pail. The pail should be plastic with a fitted lid.
• Pre-soak diapers, and set the washing machine on double wash, double rinse, hot water wash, and rinse.
• Check for stains, and treat with stain remover if necessary. Rewash with a load of regular clothes or towels. Do not use bleach.
• Line dry, or put in a dryer with the heat set on ‘high’. If line dried, you can finish off by putting the diapers in the dryer for 10-15 minutes to be sure they are dry on the inside.