Diapers

Diapers (a.k.a. Nappies) used to be made of cloth which could wash and reuse. Now with the invention of disposable diapers the majority of parents prefer this method of "use once, throw away" rather than use, wash and use again. You as a parent has to make this decision, preferable before baby arrives. Most newborns go through about 10 diapers a day.

The choice of disposable diapers or cloth diapers comes easy to some but there are those who may prefer the cloth diapers. It's true that, reusable cloth diapers have improved over the years and are available in different variety of absorbency and texture but what is the best way to decide.

Well, we could consider the debate on environment effects of diapers, such as the effects of disposable diapers in landfills versus the energy and water used to launder the reusable cloth ones both have its own pros and cons and in the  end it's up the the individuals who decide.

If you consider the cost of disposable diapers and cloth diapers that you launder at home, certainly it's cheaper to use the cloth ones but have you factored in the cost of water and electricity? Even if it's cheaper, is it worth the time and energy spent?

Health aspect:
Diaper rash are caused by urine, stool and excessively wet skin. Due to the cloth diapers inability to keep wetness at bay, babies skin is more prone to diaper rash unless the you quickly change it after they become wet or soiled. This will be an incovenience especially at night when you are in bed. It would be good to consider disposables for overnight or travelling when it's less convenient to change frequently.

Another aspect related to health is the ability of a diaper to prevent leakage of urine and stools. Intestinal diseases can be easily transmitted amond children, especially in day care centers. Disposable diapers are generally better at preventing leaks because of the super absorbent polymers ability to lock wetness inside.

Read about Diaper Rashes