One of the debates you will likely have when you have a baby is whether to use cloth or disposable diapers. Each of the options has a list of pros and cons. The ultimate decision, however, comes down to what is convenient for you as a parent. Read on for a comparison between the two types of diapers on the market.
When we think of cloth diapers, we often think of trying to pin a diaper on a moving baby. That may have been the case a few decades ago; however, this is not the case today. Many of the cloth diapers on the market today come with closures such as Velcro or snaps. The diapers also come with the option of linings, different colors, plastic coverings and many more benefits.
The biggest issue with cloth diapers is that they require a hefty investment. It is not possible to have one or two cloth diapers around and think that it will be sufficient enough to handle the job. It is necessary to have at least a dozen on hand so you are fully prepared for one day’s worth of diaper changes.
For reliable, quality-made cloth diapers, you can expect to pay between $10-$20 per diaper. This cost can add up quickly. However, over the course of your child’s life, you will not have to buy package after package of diapers which will ultimately cost you more. After buying cloth diapers, the only investment will be the laundry detergent and the electricity you use to wash the diapers.
Disposable diapers can be expensive as well. A pack of diapers will cost between $10 and $30 depending on the amount of diapers that you buy per pack. The main difference is that for the $10 to $30 that you spend on a pack of diapers you can get up to 100 diapers at a time. The downside is that all of these diapers and subsequent ones purchased will be thrown away, never to be seen or used again.
Disposable diapers do come in handy, especially on vacation or when you plan to be out all day. Nobody desires to carry dirty diapers around with them all day long or to use someone else’s washing machine for soiled diapers. Seeking out a Laundromat while on vacation is not typically a good idea either. This is one of the main reasons that parents who choose to use cloth diapers will also use disposables in those types of situations.
There is an argument as to whether cloth diapers or disposable diapers are superior. It really comes down to a matter of preference. If you do not mind washing dirty diapers and paying the hefty cost up front, then cloth diapers are probably the better choice for you. Whichever option you choose to go with, you will end up with a list of pros and cons.
