Cloth Diapers - Safe for Planet - Safe for Skin

Today's cloth diapers are not what our poor mothers had to put up with. They've made some innovative design changes making it much more convenient. Such as...

• Elastic and re-enforced stitching around legs and waist.
• Velcro-like tabs or snaps for securing.
• Water proof outer layers.
• Pocket type diapers that have a place to insert extra absorbent cloths as needed.
• Fun and dare I say, fashionable designs!

More importantly, they are better for baby's skin. Cloth diapers do not carry the harsh chemicals most traditional disposables do. Diaper rash is often attributed to dyes and synthetics in disposable varieties.

There is ongoing debate about that.

However, we know most conventional diapers are made with plastics and treated with chemicals like chlorine and bleach.

After baby uses them, most are discarded with baby waste and all. All of this clogs our landfills and leaches into surrounding soil and our environment.

Using cloth brands will require using extra water on your part. However, using a biodegradable soap will lessen environmental impact. Washing FULL loads (as opposed to many small loads) will reduce water waste.

"How do I wash cloth diapers?"

Soap is important. You don't want to use a detergent that will leave a residue. This can break down fibers and/or decrease absorbency. Good varieties for diaper washing are Charlie's Soap and Allen's Naturally.

Never use a soap or detergent with fabric softener or bleach.

If possible, air dry diapers on an indoor rack or outdoors. This will reduce wear and tear. Letting wet, clean diapers dry in the sun will add freshness and will naturally "bleach out" stains.

If your brand has Velcro-like tabs, make sure they're folded over before washing.

Many companies suggest using a rinse or soak cycle with no detergent BEFORE washing cloth diapers.

Many manufactures have instructions or tips for washing their product. It's a good idea to contact them directly or check their websites for specific information.

"Unfortunately, I won't be able to make cloth baby diapers work for us. Are there any environmentally friendly and baby skin friendly disposables?"

Thankfully, yes! There are some chlorine-free disposable brands. Look for varieties that are hypo-allergenic, fragrance and dye free too. Here are a few brands of eco-friendly disposables...

Seventh Generation - chlorine-free, hypo-allergenic, fragrance and dye free, found in many stores!
Tushies - great for the super-sensitive-skinned baby!
gDiapers - utilize disposable pads that can be flushed and are biodegradable!

"I feel like I'm forgetting something?"

Don't overlook your baby wipes. Many conventional baby wipes are full of harsh chemicals. Find natural brands or make homemade baby wipes for natural baby skin care.

With today's many options, the hardest thing about using cloth diapers might be picking a brand.

Keep in mind your lifestyle, time-constraints and budget. Then come up with a diapering plan that will benefit you, the planet and of course... your baby.

"Here's to Our Children's Health and Glowing Skin - Naturally!"

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The claims about ingredients and products throughout this site have not been evalutated by the US Food and Drug Administration. They are not intended nor approved to treat, cure, diagnose or prevent disease. The content of this site is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute from your physician or health care provider.