When I had my first child nine years ago, I was actually having a dilemma whether to use non-disposable (cloth) nappies or to go for disposable nappies. Eventually I decided to use both. During the daytime, I use mostly non-disposable or cloth nappies and during the night time, I switch to the disposable types. Below I have a short summary describing the differences to help other parents to decide.
Non-disposable diapers
- You have to wash and dry them for reuse. Later you have to fold them and put them away. So there is extra work involve.
- The nappy needs nappy pins, modern clips or fasteners or Velcro tabs to fasten it.
- You may want to purchase waterproof pants to be used with the nappies.
- It is ecologically friendly compared to disposable diapers.
- The cost in the long run is cheaper as it is reusable.
Disposable diapers
- There is no washing involve as you can change to a new one as and when necessary.
- They are more expensive in the long run as you have to buy new packs every month.
- It is more absorbent of course and does not leak easily.
- It is not ecologically friendly and takes time to biodegrade.
So there you have the differences. I am sure that disposable diapers will still be popular as they are very convenient to use.