Disposable vs. Reusable Diapers

The debate continues over whether disposable or reusable diapers are “best” and it can be confusing, especially to first time mothers. Every parent wants the best for their child and there are pros and cons for both types of diapers. Ultimately, parents will need to examine both options and weigh them against their lifestyle.

Cost

Depending on the age of the child and how often they need to be changed, cloth diapers can cost between $800 to $1,000 over the course of two years. Disposables will cost between $2,000 and $3,000 over the same time period. Cloth diapers require soap, water and electricity to wash and dry them, plus a diaper pail to store them in until wash time. A diaper service eliminates the task of washing, but adds an additional cost.

Eco-Friendly

Cloth diapers are an eco-friendly and sustainable solution that are made of cotton fabric. A child will typically require 5,000 to 6,000 diapers prior to being potty trained. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, disposable diapers account for 7 percent of all household waste in landfills. Disposables take an estimated 500 years to degrade, releasing methane and other toxic gases.

Leaks

Disposable diapers have built-in leak proofing created during the manufacturing process, with a plastic outer layer and rubber around the leg openings. To prevent leakage with cloth diapers, parents will need to invest in multiple pairs of plastic pants to be worn over a reusable diaper.

Gentle on Skin

The cotton construction of reusable diapers is easier on a baby’s more sensitive skin, but the cloth is bleached and rinsed heavily to achieve their white hue. They’re also less absorbent. The dyes and gels utilize in disposables hold wetness in, which can result in skin irritation if left on too long. However, they do tend to be more breathable.

Convenience

Cloth diapers can be inconvenient, especially on outings, since they have to be transported back home for cleaning. A poopy diaper will need to have waste removed before taking it home. They require diaper pins for closure and babies can be stuck accidentally. Disposables are the ultimate in convenience. Once a diaper has been soiled, it can simply be deposited in a trash receptacle, but the sticky tab fasteners can sometimes tear.

At Crown Products, we create high-quality, focused products that, in essence, improve the quality of life for everyone who uses your facilities and public spaces. Visitors benefit from a cleaner space and resources to keep it clean, staff can focus on important maintenance rather than cleaning up litter and waste, and you can enjoy a pristine and appreciated space!

If you’re an existing distributor, you can place an order here to restock your inventory. If you’re interested in becoming an official distributor of Crown Products, learn more and apply here. And if you’re interested in purchasing Crown Products’ goods for your facility or public space, you can find a distributor here.