Alternatives to Cloth Diapers

Many of the eco-options available today - from cars to carbon offsets - are not the answer, but a better answer, and diapers are no different. The debate over which type of diaper causes less ecological impact - cloth or disposable - rages on. My first introduction was at a baby shower - someone gave me a “cake” made of diapers. And I’ve still got one of Corbin’s cute little preemie size diapers saved in a box. But the conflicting images of overflowing landfills or washing out cloth nappies supercedes sugar coated memories. Any way you go, it’s just not that pretty a picture - but time goes fast so try not to stress too much about diapers. Enjoy your baby and make the best choices when and where you can. Corbin’s been out of diapers for about four years, so here’s the scoop from our EcoMom Alliance research:

Seventh Generation diapers are chorine free, which reduces dioxins, and the gel they use is non-toxic rather than carcinogenic (as are the moisture absorbers in some traditional brands). These look and feel similar to regular disposables, except they’re beige, undecorated, and unscented. Works well for all ages and a favorite of many new EcoMoms.

Tushies also use chlorine-free wood pulp and rely on a natural blend cotton padding to keep your baby dry, so they’re much thicker than your average disposable but still fit comfortably. Tushies contain no latex, no perfume, no dye, no TBT, and no GMO.

gDiapers are a new option revolutionizing the diaper industry, a hybrid between cloth and disposable. With a colorful, cloth cover, washable snap-in liner, and inserts that are flushed down the toilet, the gDiaper is growing in popularity and looks really cute. Not so good for newborn blowouts (if you don’t know what I’m talking about you will soon), but very reliable and easy after about 4 months. The ingredients are almost all natural, but do include super-absorbent polymers, or SAP (which most disposable diapers use as well) to increase the amount of liquid that the diaper can hold. SAP has been linked to toxic-shock syndrome from tampons and some parents are concerned about its use in diapers, though studies have revealed no adverse health effects from exposure outside the body. Also, some waste system managers have told us that the inserts do not break down well within their pipes, so check with your local provider and get their feedback.

Overall, we are excited about gDiapers because they send no material to the landfill, use no elemental chlorine or plastics, and require much less washing (therefore, less water and energy usage) than regular cloth diapers.

About The Author

Kimberly Danek Pinkson is the founder of the EcoMom Alliance and a popular media guest and keynote speaker on issues of green living and sustainability. A longtime social entrepreneur and freelance writer, she is a frequent contributor for parenting magazines and websites such as BabyCenter and iVillage. Kimberly works with her team of EcoMom Leaders to bring forth the organization’s positive and proactive messaging, including teaching Sustain Your Self workshops nationwide. She is the proud mommy to son Corbin, a doting auntie to two nephews, and very happy to be a part of The Cradle. To learn more about Kimberly and join the EcoMom Alliance, please visit ecomomalliance.org.