Just as with most single-use products, disposable diapers that have been soiled, are not recycled and end up being landfilled or incinerated. Moreover, chemical additives and contaminants within the plastic diapers can migrate into babies’ skin and cause skin allergies, disrupt children’s neurological development, and harm overall human health and functioning.
Many benefits come with switching to reusable diapers. The impact on environmental health will be lessened through waste reduction; about 99% of waste would be prevented using reusable diapers as compared to disposable ones and the carbon footprint would be reduced by 40%[1].
Moreover, the baby’s health will be prioritised by avoiding chemical-ridden plastics and switching instead to unbleached and undyed cloth diapers made of cotton or bamboo. Furthermore, costs will be cut in the long run through reuse and avoiding repeat purchases of new disposable diapers.
Lastly, with a bit of research, the switch to reusables will be smooth and simple. For example, some people remain wary of making the change as they are afraid reusable diapers will: (a) be difficult to use, (b) leak, and (c) be very smelly. However, in reality, reusable diapers are: (a) available in many different types, including modern pre-fold diapers which are hassle-free, (b) not necessarily more likely to leak, as long as the proper wash and care instructions are followed, and (c) actually less smelly than disposables[2] [3].
Families switching from disposable to reusable diapers brings us a few steps closer to a circular economy. Let’s do our part in eradicating the throw-away culture!
[1] Copello, L. (2021). It’s time to clear out plastic & chemicals from nappies, not the poo. Break Free From Plastic. https://zerowasteeurope.eu/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/zwe_bffp_policy-briefing_Its-time-to-clear-out-plastic-chemicals-from-nappies-not-the-poop_en-2.pdf
[2] Rosas, K. (2012, October 25). Don’t Be Afraid Of The Cloth Diaper Monster: ConqueringThe Fear Of The Unknown. Dirty Diaper Laundry: http://dirtydiaperlaundry.com/dont-be-afraid-of-the-cloth-diaper-monster-conquering-the-fear-of-the-unknown/
[3] Villines, Z. (2019, December 11). Everything you need to know about reusable diapers. Medical News Today: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/327289
