Picking Out the Right Cloth Diaper for Your Newborn: A Practical Guide for Eco-Conscious Parents

As new parents, diapering is one of your biggest concerns, not just in terms of convenience but also cost, environmental impact, and your baby's health. You have probably considered many options and weighed in the advantages already. For busy parents- and who isn’t busy nowadays? - disposable diapers are the easiest option. But have you considered all the hidden downsides?

The Issues with Disposable Diapers 

• Environmental Waste: The average baby uses 6,000 disposable diapers before potty training, contributing to millions of tons of landfill waste.
• High Costs: Disposable diapers can cost parents up to $3,000 per child.
• Skin Sensitivities: Many disposables contain chemicals that may lead to diaper rash and skin irritation.

Why Choose Cloth Diapers? 

If you cringe at the thought of cloth diapers and all the associated “headaches,” consider the fact that we are no longer in the 1950s. Cloth diapers have come a long way from the folding and pinning. They’ve come to be considered a modern, sustainable alternative to disposables.  There are so many benefits here, it would just fill volumes.

1. Eco-Friendly: Reduce Your Baby’s Environmental Footprint 

Did you know that disposable diapers are one of the largest contributors to landfill waste? An estimated 20 billion disposable diapers end up in landfills each year in the U.S. alone, taking up to 500 years to decompose. Not only do they contribute to overflowing landfills, but they also release methane during decomposition.

With cloth diapers, you’re making an environmentally responsible decision that significantly reduces waste. Cloth diapers are reusable, meaning you’re not throwing away thousands of single-use products for your child’s diapering years. Depending on your washing routine, these pieces also consume less water and energy compared to the resources required to manufacture, transport, and dispose of disposables.

Most cloth diapers are made from natural fibers like organic cotton, hemp, or bamboo, materials that are biodegradable and sustainably sourced. By investing in cloth diapers, you’re helping to cut down on pollution, conserve resources, and reduce the number of synthetic materials in landfills.

2. Cost-Saving: A One-Time Investment That Pays Off 

The upfront costs may seem scary at first. But let’s break it all down:

• The average baby goes through 6,000 to 7,000 disposable diapers from birth to potty training.
• The total cost of disposables over this period can range from $2,000 to $3,000 per child, depending on the brand.
• A full stash of cloth diapers typically costs between $300 and $700—a one-time investment that can be reused for multiple children.

When you draw the line, you can save anywhere from $1,500 to $2,500 per child! Only by switching to cloth…but wait, this is not all!

The savings don’t stop there. Because cloth diapers are durable, they can be passed down to younger siblings. And if you ever decide to resell your cloth diapers after your child is potty trained, there’s a thriving second-hand market where well-maintained diapers retain a good portion of their value.

3. Gentle on Baby’s Skin: Fewer Chemicals, Less Irritation 

Nothing is more important than the health of your baby. Disposable diapers all contain chemicals such as sodium polyacrylate (the absorbent gel), chlorine, phthalates, dioxins, and artificial fragrances. These substances can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and even disrupt hormone balance.

Cloth diapers are made from natural, breathable materials: organic cotton, bamboo, and hemp, which are free from harsh chemicals. These fabrics are known for their softness and moisture-wicking properties, reducing the risk of diaper rash and skin irritation.

Many parents notice that their babies experience fewer diaper rashes when switching to cloth because the fabrics allow for better air circulation.

Another huge benefit is that you control the washing routine. This means you can use gentle, fragrance-free detergents that don’t introduce unnecessary irritants to your baby’s diaper area. How is that for peace of mind?

Types of Cloth Diapers for Newborns 

There are many options available on the market, and below are all of those listed for your convenience.

• Prefolds: These are affordable, easy to wash, and highly absorbent.
• Fitteds: Designed for maximum absorbency, fitted diapers snugly contour your baby’s body.
• All-in-Ones (AIOs): The most convenient option, AIOs combine the absorbent layer and waterproof cover into one piece.
• Pocket Diapers: These feature a pocket for customizable inserts.
• Hybrid Diapers: Offering the best of both worlds, hybrids combine reusable cloth with disposable inserts.

Pros and Cons of Each Diaper Type 

To help you decide which cloth diaper is best for your newborn, here’s a quick comparison of the pros and cons of each type:

Prefolds 

• Pros:
• Affordable and cost-effective.
• Easy to clean and quick to dry.
• Highly customizable with different folding techniques.
• Cons:
• Require a separate waterproof cover.
• Less convenient for on-the-go changes.

Fitteds 

• Pros:
• Excellent absorbency, perfect for heavy wetters or overnight use.
• Snug fit reduces the risk of leaks.
• Cons:
• Require a waterproof cover.
• Bulkier than other options.

All-in-Ones (AIOs) 

• Pros:
• Most convenient and easy to use.
• No need for separate covers or inserts.
• Great for caregivers or daycare.
• Cons:
• Longer drying time due to the all-in-one design.
• Typically more expensive than other types.

Pocket Diapers 

• Pros:
• Customizable absorbency with different insert options.
• Quick-drying when inserts are removed.
• Stay-dry lining keeps baby comfortable.
• Cons:
• Requires stuffing inserts, which can be time-consuming.
• Pockets need to be cleaned thoroughly to prevent odor buildup.

Hybrid Diapers 

• Pros:
• Flexible—use cloth inserts at home and disposable inserts on the go.
• Eco-friendlier than fully disposable diapers.
• Cons:
• Disposable inserts add ongoing costs.
• May not be as absorbent as other cloth options.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cloth Diaper 

It takes more than just picking a style, to find the right cloth diaper for your baby. We always like to recommend a few key factors to keep in mind:

1. Fit: A proper fit is more important than you know, if you want to prevent leaks. Look for adjustable features like snaps or Velcro to accommodate your growing baby.
2. Absorbency: If you have a heavy wetter on your hands, you’ll probably need overnight solutions. The best picks are diapers with extra absorbency, like hemp or bamboo inserts.
3. Materials: Natural fibers: organic cotton, hemp, and bamboo are breathable, hypoallergenic, and gentle on sensitive skin. Avoid synthetic materials that can cause irritation.
4. Ease of Use: Busy parents may prefer AIOs or pocket diapers for their simplicity, while others might prioritize the affordability of prefolds.
5. Cleaning & Maintenance: Proper care extends the life of your cloth diapers. Use a gentle, cloth-safe detergent and avoid fabric softeners, which can reduce absorbency.

How Many Cloth Diapers Do You Need? 

The number of cloth diapers you’ll need depends on whether you’re diapering full-time or part-time. For full-time use, a stash of 20-24 diapers is ideal. You need to make sure you have enough to use between washes. If you’re only using these part-time users, you can get by with 10-12 diapers.

And here’s how to change them efficiently:

• Change your baby every 2-3 hours. Try to prevent leaks and rashes.
• Have a designated wet bag for storing dirty diapers until laundry day.
• Wash diapers every 2-3 days to maintain hygiene and prevent odors.

Common Cloth Diapering Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

Even the most experienced cloth diaper parents will make mistakes now and then. Don’t worry about this too much, just keep some aspects in mind:

·        The first rule is to make sure the diaper is snug but not too tight. Check for gaps around the legs and waist.

·        Take note of what detergent you use. Harsh detergents can damage fabrics and irritate your baby’s skin. Stick to cloth-safe options.

·        Don’t skip prepping! New cloth diapers need to be washed several times before use to maximize absorbency.

Why Choose Babee Greens Cloth Diapers?

We’re committed to providing the best for your baby and the planet. Our certified organic cloth diapers are made from 100% natural fibers, free from synthetic materials and harsh chemicals. Designed and manufactured in the USA, our diapers are crafted with care in the beautiful mountains of Asheville, North Carolina.

What sets us apart?

• Sustainability: Our diapers are eco-friendly from start to finish.
• Quality Materials: We use only the finest organic cotton, hemp, and bamboo.
• Thoughtful Design: Our diapers are easy to use, clean, and maintain, making them perfect for busy parents.

Ready to Make the Switch?

Choosing the right cloth diaper for your newborn is an important decision that impacts your baby’s comfort, your budget, and the environment.

Take a look at Babee Greens’ collection of certified organic cloth diapers and discover why we’re the trusted choice for eco-conscious parents. Visit babeegreens.com to learn more and start your cloth diapering journey today!