Diaper Service or Disposables?

New mothers have their hands full as it is, and deciding between cloth or disposable diapers is just another stressor on top of many others. However, determining what to use early on might end up saving you time, money or maybe even the environment. Read on for the basics about disposable versus cloth diapers.

Disposable Diapers

One of the primary arguments against disposable diapers is the planet's health. The environmental and monetary costs of transporting these diapers to landfills can be substantial, in addition to the number of trees and tons of plastic used in making them. On top of all that, the expense of using disposable diapers is estimated to run anywhere from $1,500 to $2,400 by the time your child is potty trained.

On the plus side, these diapers last longer between changings than cloth, don't involve potentially dangerous safety pins and are always clean when taken from the package. Most people use them out of convenience as well as knowing they're safe and sterile.

Cloth Diapers

Using and cleaning cloth diapers may save you a lot of cash, although the initial expense of the diapers can seem high. It's important to remember that disposable diapers will cost you more than the cloth before the first year is out. Children who wear cloth diapers may suffer from diaper rash less frequently. After the initial investment, cloth diapers will last through any number of children, and when you're finally through with them, they can be sold or recycled.

Cloth diapers, however, lack the convenience element of disposable ones. They're more difficult to use (Velcro always beats out safety pins) and cleaning them isn't exactly fast and easy (or particularly fun).

Using a Diaper Service

Cloth diapers may cost as much as disposable diapers if you use a diaper service. A diaper service typically picks up your used, uncleaned diapers and replaces them with fresh cloth ones. Proponents of disposable diapers claim that using cloth diapers in addition to a diaper service is unhealthy for the planet because gas is used to pick up and drop off the diapers, and pollutants are added to the water supply by the detergent used to clean diapers. Of course, a diaper service is convenient and dependable, but it may not be easy on your wallet. Check around online for nearby services and compare prices.

What's a Parent to Do?

The money you'll save on using cloth diapers and cleaning them at home is pretty irresistible, but as your child begins eating solid food, the odor can be unbearable. What's realistic for you? Are you a stay-at-home mom or a working mom? Do you feel strongly about the environment? Would you rather not get your hands dirty? Can you afford a diaper service, and is convenience a priority? Can you do the laundry at home until your child begins solid food? Your child's comfort is important but it's equally crucial that you choose what will work for you financially.