The arrival of a new baby brings with it many unexpected decisions that require attention: sleep schedules, feeding, and clothes that babies quickly stop wearing. Among these issues, diapers take a special place.
Most parents tend to choose disposable diapers due to their simplicity and familiarity, which is especially important when parents are sleep-deprived. However, sustainability advocate Sonika Bhasing suggests considering an alternative—modern cloth diapers.
Sonika, who shares ideas about sustainable living and parenting with her audience of over 111,000 followers on Instagram, recently discussed the reasons for switching to cloth diapers. It is important to note that this is not about reverting to old-fashioned cloth items.
Practicality of modern cloth diapers
Modern cloth diapers are significantly different from a simple piece of fabric wrapped around a baby. Many of them are equipped with absorbent inserts and waterproof outer layers, making their use similar to using disposable models. The main difference appears after use: instead of being thrown in the trash, the diaper is washed and reused.
This undoubtedly means an extra load in the washing machine in life with a child, which may not suit every family. Nevertheless, Sonika argues that for parents who can manage the laundry process, the possibility of multiple uses is one of the main advantages.
Consider how many diapers one child uses
Sonika emphasizes that until potty training, a baby can use thousands of disposable diapers. This leads to the purchase of a large number of items that are used once and then discarded. Cloth diapers allow items to be used repeatedly, helping families reduce the volume of waste sent to landfills. For parents aiming to cut down on daily trash, this can have a noticeable effect.
The financial aspect
Anyone who regularly buys diapers knows how quickly they become a permanent household expense. Sonika notes that over time, cloth diapers can be significantly cheaper than complete reliance on disposables, especially considering that the same set can be used again and again. There is even a secondary market: parents who no longer need cloth diapers can pass them on or sell them, and other families can purchase used options at a reduced price. Of course, the initial costs are higher, but the idea is to buy a smaller overall quantity of diapers.
What about the baby's skin?
This is often one of the first questions parents ask. Sonika prefers cloth diapers because they reduce contact with plastic materials typically found in disposable diapers and can provide better breathability. However, every child's skin is unique. Regardless of the chosen option, frequent diaper changes, proper washing, and keeping the diaper area clean and dry remain important.
And yes, they can be surprisingly cute
Perhaps this is not the main reason for switching diapers, but it is certainly a pleasant bonus. Modern cloth diapers come in bright colors, with various prints and patterns, turning a very practical item into a surprisingly fun part of a baby's wardrobe. Ultimately, switching to cloth diapers does not have to be an 'all or nothing' decision. Some parents might use cloth diapers at home and disposables while traveling. Others might gradually transition to the new option, starting with just a few. The main question is not whether one choice makes you a 'better' parent. It comes down to whether the reusable option suits your child, your routine, and your home. And if it does, it means you need to buy and throw away less of the smallest daily item.