So you are a parent committed to using prefold cloth diapers. You believe they’re easier on your baby’s sensitive skin and you like the fact that you can reuse them and not clutter up landfills. But what happens in those moments when you simply can’t use prefolds? Is there such a thing as a green cloth diaper?
There is. And all you have to do is a little research to find the one that will work best for your family.
The truth is, there are inevitably moments when cloth diapers aren’t feasible. Perhaps you are on the road and would prefer not to have soiled diapers in the hot car. Or you forgot to run the washing machine and so you need a quick fix. Or you simply underestimated the number of cloth diapers you needed while out shopping. It happens.
When you start looking into disposable diapers, there are two key tips to keep in mind. The first is absorbent gel. The reason that disposables work in the first place is that they contain a chemical that literally absorbs fluids in the diaper. For a lot of parents, that’s an issue.
The alternative that has evolved is known as Sodium Polyacrylate. Sometimes this is referred to as SAP. Many studies have suggested that this gel is non-carcinogenic and also gentler when it comes to soft baby skin. You will find that many progressive companies who share your concern about the planet are using this gel in their green disposables.
You might want to avoid gels altogether. If that’s the case, you will find options out there. But keep in mind that when you are using diapers without chemically-altered absorbent qualities, then you are going to have to change your baby’s diaper more frequently. The plus side is that you can simply throw away the diaper after it’s been used. You don’t have to wash it.
Look for diapers that are from “wood pulp fluff.” This is a material that is soft but also natural – like the hemp or cotton in your favorite cloth prefolds. You want to be sure that the wood is harvested in a sustainable way and that it has not been chemically treated at any point in the process.
There are ways to combine reusable diapers with disposables. For example, you can purchase a reusable diaper cover – latex and dye-free, of course. Then, you can insert either a biodegradable diaper inside of it, or you can use a traditional prefold cloth diaper. This model is adaptable to the circumstances in which you find yourself – and both options aren’t going to harm the planet.
There is no reasons to feel guilty for turning to a disposable diaper. Yes, cloth diapers are more natural and don’t clog up landfills. But with a little research, you can find an alternative that will help you and your growing family continue to live according to your green values.