Benefits of using Washable Diapers

There is nothing that scares modern parents than the words “We don’t have diapers.” These potent words are enough to send one to an early grave. With the age we are living in, time is of the essence and anything that makes life a little more convenient is a welcome idea. Wether you are a stay-at-home or working parent, diapers are the number one priority and you would rather sleep hungry than run out of these cotton gems.

Mention the word diapers and probably the first thing that comes to your mind is pampers or whatever brand that you use, which are mostly disposable. While disposable diapers come in handy immediately after delivery, when the mother is recuperating and has not time or energy to wash nappies, are the go to option in places where water is scarce and generally life savers for busy working parents, they come with their own share of costs.

For starters they are quite expensive  both in the short and long run. They also tend to be used on the baby for a longer period hence increasing the chances of getting diaper rash. It just inevitable, they are expensive and our penny clinching minds will want to “make the most” out of the diaper, not realising the damage it has onto our child’s health. Disposable diapers are also bleached to attain that brilliant white colour and can lead to sensitivities in the baby. But all in all they make life easier and come in handy on rainy days.

Why opt for washable/cloth diapers?

We see you rolling your eyes and telling yourself who has time for washing diapers? But before you dismiss cloth diapers, read on below to fin out some benefits.

Source : The Natural Baby Company

Saves you money 

With cloth diapers, the cost per change is less of a factor because each cloth diaper can be reused hundreds of times, allowing for more frequent changes and a way to keep skin truly dry and rash free.

Great on baby’s skin

If you are looking to minimise the exposure to chemicals found in disposable diapers, your best bet will be choosing cloth diapers.

Environmental friendly

Cloth diapers are not tossed into the bin after single use. They are reused and if they wear out, can be relegated to washcloths.

Can be resold

Good news is that they can be re-sold or donated when your baby outgrows them. That’s if they are still in good shape.

How to wash cloth diapers

Guaranteed, disposable diapers are more absorbent than cloth diapers which is why you need to be well stocked up on your cloth diapers if you are to ensure a clean and dry baby. Now that most, if not all babies are diaper assassins, and you have intentionally decided to use cloth diapers, the magic number for most families is between 24-30 cloth diapers. Always ensure you have enough clean diapers to get you through a day or two without having to wash them. It would be prudent to have a basin dedicated to diaper washing purposes only.

Begin the washing process by disposing any poop into the toilet and rinse the diaper in cold water first as this reduces staining.

Next soak the diapers in hot water for some minutes. You can add some bit of baking soda to boost the cleaning. Vinegar can also be used instead of bleach.

Wash in water slightly above warm temperatures, using a mild bar soap. Avoid using strong detergents and bleach to wash the diapers as they might be a little harsh on the baby’s sensitive skin. Detergents also leave residues on the diapers.

Once clean, rinse the diapers with plenty of water and dry them out in the clothes’ line where there is plenty of sunlight.

Avoid using fabric softeners on your cloth diapers even if you may be tempted to enhance the smell!