How I Decided to Start Using Cloth Diapers

Probably, two of the best possible ways to do the right things in life is by learning from one’s own experience and learning from others’ experience (often mistakes) too. The latter perhaps is what saved me and my sweet little child.

Taking care of a baby is definitely not a cakewalk and it is always a good idea to take an expert’s advice before each stage of its development. This is exactly what my sister-in-law failed to do as a mother and fortunately it is also a factor that pushed me into doing the right things for my little son.

Diaper care or diapering is one thing that people seem to have a lot of different opinions on. Often there seems to be confusion on whether cloth diapers or disposable diapers are the best solution for babies. Sometimes this is looked upon as a very uncomfortable choice of topic for a discussion. But believe me, it is one of the most essential parts of  baby-care.

It was about two years ago that I had to witness my sister-in-law having a tough time with her innocent infant. The troubles faced by the baby were a misery to the family.

It goes without saying that a kid is more prone to allergies and sickness in its babyhood than its childhood. So what’s wrong with this child? Why is it so restless? What in the world could be the reason to its unstoppable cry?

Well, the simple answer is its diapers. The rashes and allergies, the baby had developed on its back and the sensitive parts in the front, was the cause of all these sorrows. And if only my poor sister-in-law had known, that a cloth diaper would have done a world of good to her delicate darling, things would have been different then.

However as my memory goes back to a saying in the Christian religion, “if the sufferings of today mean a glory of tomorrow, then the suffering is an eternal blessing”. It is more or less true in my case. The tough times that my sister-in-law went through was nothing but a lesson learned. It was a blessing to my own baby that experienced nothing but joy and peace.

Now what makes such a big difference between a cloth diaper and a disposable one? Well, having seen the best of both worlds let me give a brief description on what separates the two.

Before I go on, I have to tell you that cloth diapers are not the ones they used to be several years ago. Today they are pin-free and pain-free.

Why is a cloth diaper superior?

The leak guards, the comfort and the fit in cloth diapers are all the same as  in disposable diapers. In addition, it is also breathable and chlorine-free.

A hot and solid disposable diaper is more prone to rashes and allergies. To an extent, it also hides the fact that it needs to be changed. This will result in bacteria-caused rashes on a baby’s back. Again disposable diapers can withstand more fluids than their cloth competitors, thus resulting in a dirty diaper causing bacterial infections for a long time.

Considering the health aspect too, a disposable diaper may not be the best option. It contains tiny constituents of carcinogen DIOXIN and other huge amount of chemicals used for absorbency and good odour. On the other hand, a cloth diaper is made of natural fibres and if washed properly, will have no chemical or bacterial residues.

Considering the environment, cloth diapers are more eco-friendly as a disposable diaper will pollute your surroundings in every possible way. And finally on the price, disposable diapering is a costlier method on the long run when compared to cloth diapering. There is also free baby stuff available online which will help you save money while you shop for diapers.

Also, you could have a touch of fun factor as your cloth diapers are adorable with cute colours and prints that can define your fashion statement too.

Sometimes parents (especially moms) believe that these cloth diapers take up a lot of work and time to wash and reuse. They might even believe that it is more work for less benefit.

But think again! This is after all a gentle appeal from a happy mother and a healthy toddler who would more than happily share their joyous moments (inspired after the early misfortunes). These newcomers are born to love and to be loved. So be smart and act smart.

Kathryn Smith is a tech and entertainment blogger who works for an online publication. She also identifies various distance learning options in order to help the younger generation fulfill their career goals and dreams.

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