Cloth Diapering: Common Questions and Misconceptions

In today's world of disposable plates, disposable cameras, disposable batteries, and disposable incomes, it's quite common to see babies wearing disposable diapers. But many parents are reaching back to the old ways and switching to reusable cloth diapers for their families. Here I have compiled a list of common questions and misconceptions about cloth diapering.

Isn't it expensive?

While it is true that the initial start-up cost for cloth diapering may seem a bit shocking, it really will save you money in the long run over disposables. With disposables, you will have to buy new diapers every couple of weeks until the child is potty trained. With cloth however, it is a one-time cost. You will never again have to buy diapers after you buy one set of cloth diapers. If you go with the all-in-ones (AIO's), you may need to buy different sizes, but there are many one-size options available today that will grow with your child from newborn to potty training. And they can be used for multiple children, so if you have more kids at home you can reuse them, or give them away to friends or relatives. You can also recoup some of your expense by reselling them when you're finished using them.

If you're willing to put in a little extra effort into learning how to use them, prefolds or flat diapers with waterproof covers are the most cost-effective method of cloth diapering. They really aren't difficult to use, but they do operate differently than a disposable, so it will be a new learning experience.

Isn't it unsanitary?

When you run your clothes and underwear through the wash, you are certain that they are clean and sanitary, right? It's the same with your cloth diapers. If cared for properly, cloth diapers are no less sanitary than disposables.

Aren't they hard to clean?