Cloth vs. Disposable Diapers: Which Should You Use?

There’s no better feeling than that of being a new parent and seeing your baby smile for the first time. For new parents, though, this warm ‘baby cuteness’ feel also comes with several headaches.  One of the first major choices and pains will be getting your bundle of joy properly diapered. What will be a better fit for their sensitive skin? Cloth or disposable? Which one of these is best for your needs and purse, too?

Let’s face it: You're already navigating sleepless nights, feeding schedules, and an entirely new way of life. You’re probably already too tired. Relying on your friends’ and family’s wisdom might not always be the best answer. After all, what works for one family might not be ideal for another. Well, we have good news!  There’s no one "right" answer, only the one that works best for you and your baby.

Choosing a diapering system isn’t just about convenience. It affects your baby’s skin, your wallet, and your family’s environmental footprint. And while Babee Greens offers natural cloth diapering solutions, this guide is designed to give you a fair, informative overview so you can feel confident in whatever path you take.

Cloth Diapers: Pros and Cons

If you cringe at the thought of having to wash diapers instead of just tossing them in the garbage, think again. Cloth diapers have come a long way from the pins and rubber pants your parents used on you when you were an infant. So, any horror stories you may have heard might just be greatly outdated. Today’s cloth diapers are modern and easy to use. They are also quite beautifully designed, allowing them to a reliable choice.

Think fabric: only natural, breathable materials like organic cotton and wool are used. Many parents find them to be much gentler on their baby’s skin than disposable alternatives. For babies with sensitive skin or recurring diaper rashes, cloth will be a godsend!

But you haven’t heard one of the most compelling benefits yet: using cloth diapers will have a tremendous environmental impact!  Unlike disposables, which contribute significantly to landfill waste, cloth diapers are reusable and sometimes last through multiple children. Even better? This kind of longevity will end up saving you money. It is true: you spend more when buying them, but many families have reported saving several hundreds in dollars over time. If you have or plan to have more than one child, these savings are multiplied.

There’s one more thing: you will not find yourself always running to the store or worrying about stockpiling diapers during emergencies; these are commodities you will always have at your disposal.

While we wouldn’t necessarily call them cons, you should, however, know that cloth diapering involves some practical considerations.  Firstly, you’ll be doing more laundry Secondly, allow yourself some time to get comfortable with the process, as there's a learning curve involved in determining the ideal fit, absorbency, and wash routine. With patience and experimentation, things will fall into place and become second nature.

Another possible drawback is that while cloth diapers are great at home, some families find them less convenient while traveling or using daycare services that don’t support cloth.

In short, cloth diapers are an eco-conscious, cost-effective, and skin-friendly option, but they require a bit more time and planning upfront.

Disposable Diapers: Pros and Cons

There’s a reason why disposable diapers are the go-to choice for many parents: they’re convenient. Just unwrap, use, and toss. No washing, no folding, no fuss. This ease of use makes disposables ideal for travel, daycare, and those bleary-eyed 3 a.m. changes when you may not be fully awake.

They’re also widely available in stores and online, and there are countless brands and types to choose from, including versions made for sensitive skin or overnight use. For parents juggling work, multiple kids, or limited access to laundry, the sheer convenience of disposables can feel like a lifesaver.

That said, disposables come with significant downsides. The most obvious is their environmental cost: the average baby goes through over 2,000 diapers in their first year alone. Most of these end up in landfills and take hundreds of years to break down. Manufacturing these diapers also consumes water, plastic, and energy, contributing to their carbon footprint.

There are also health considerations. Many disposable diapers contain chemicals, microplastics, dyes, fragrances, and absorbent gels that can irritate sensitive skin. Some babies experience more frequent diaper rash with disposables.

Let’s not forget the ongoing cost; what seems like a small weekly expense can quickly add up to hundreds, if not thousands of dollars over the diapering years.

Disposable diapers are easy and accessible but come with long-term environmental and financial trade-offs that are worth considering.

Cost Comparison Over Time

At first glance, there is really no real argument about it: disposable diapers might be the more budget-friendly solution, especially when you get them in bulk or use coupons. However, in time, these costs can add up. Recent estimates show the average cost of disposable diapers is around $70 to $80 per month, or roughly $2,000 to $2,500 over a two- to three-year period.

Now, a full stash of cloth diapers can cost anywhere from $300 to $800, depending on the brand and type. Add in the cost of water, detergent, and energy for laundry, and you're still looking at substantial savings. The big plus:  cloth diapers can be resold or reused for future children, further extending their value.

Disposables are single-use products, while cloth diapers are an investment.

Environmental Impact

Disposable diapers account for an estimated 3.6 million tons of landfill waste each year in the United States alone. They can take up to 500 years to decompose, depending on the materials. The production process also involves plastics, synthetic chemicals, and fossil fuels.

Cloth diapers, on the other hand, can be reused and are made from biodegradable or natural materials. Yes, they require water and energy to wash. But you can minimize the impact by using an energy-efficient washing machine and natural detergents for a minimal environmental impact. 

Health and Comfort

Many parents show a real concern for their newborn’s well-being and turn to cloth diapers because they’re gentler on sensitive skin. With no synthetic fragrances, dyes, and gels, cloth reduces the risk of allergic reactions or persistent diaper rash. Plus, natural fibers like cotton and wool are breathable, so you can prevent heat buildup and skin irritation.

Here’s an unpopular opinion, though: Both types of diapers have their place. Think about it: disposables are designed for high absorbency and moisture-wicking, and will most likely be quicker to deal with during the late-night diaper changes. Cloth diapers, especially those made with organic fibers, will offer a better fit and greater comfort during the day. You may want to consider a hybrid approach.

Lifestyle Factors to Consider

Your lifestyle plays a big role in your diapering decision.

Do you have access to a washer and dryer?

Are you comfortable with an extra few loads of laundry each week? Cloth might be right for you.

Do you travel often, rely on daycare, or live in a small apartment? Disposables might offer the convenience you need.

Hybrid Options

Some families create a hybrid system: they use cloth at home and disposables when out and about. Before you fully commit to one or another, think about your daily routines, your priorities, and what you feel comfortable managing. There’s no shame in choosing the option that keeps your household running smoothly.

Ultimately, the best diaper is the one that fits your baby, your lifestyle, and your values. If you’re drawn to natural materials, sustainability, and long-term savings, cloth diapering is a great place to start. If you're curious but not ready to fully commit, starting small, with just a few cloth diapers during the day, might be the solution for you.

Babee Greens is proud to offer a line of cloth diapers and accessories made from 100% natural fibers, designed and handcrafted in Asheville, North Carolina. Whether you choose cloth, disposables, or a bit of both, we're here to support your journey toward healthier, more sustainable parenting.