Save Money on Diapers
Cloth vs. Disposable Diapering and Benefits of Alternative Methods
Jul 15, 2009
Babies are expensive; it’s a well known fact. Somewhat less known however are ways to lessen the cost of the tiny new person causing the huge drain on bank accounts.
The job of taking care of a baby’s waste is often handled with contempt because of the obvious unpleasantness and less obvious cost. According to Environment Canada the average baby will require 5000 to 7000 diaper changes by age two. At approximately fifteen dollars a package that’s over $2500 when all is said and done.
Diapering Baby
Choosing cloth over disposable diapers dramatically reduces that figure. Cloth diapers have come a long way since the typical fold and pin design of the past; a wide range of styles are now available. Coming in pre-folded, fitted and pocket diapers, cloth diapering has become an easy, affordable option. Each system has its benefits and drawbacks. Choosing the right system depends on preference and lifestyle.
The typical pre-folds are flat pieces of cloth folded to fit baby and fastened with pins or diaper fasteners. Plastic pants or diaper covers should be worn with them to prevent leaking. Fitted diapers are shaped to fit baby, usually with elastics around the waist and legs to stop leakage. These diapers don’t often have an outer waterproof layer so they should also be worn with a wrap or cover. Pocket diapers are the easiest method, combining the elements needed for cloth diapering into one convenient system. They are designed with an outer waterproof layer to prevent leaks and an inner absorbent layer to draw away dampness from the baby’s skin.
Diaper Cost
The initial cost might be intimidating at first, depending on which diaper system is chosen, but the long-run savings and benefits outweigh the start-up cost. This diaper calculator outlines the cost of diapers including washing. Pre-folds and covers average around $380, fitted and covers add up to around $1260, and pocket diapers estimate $1700. Looking at the most expensive option, there’s still savings of around $1000.
Washing Cloth Diapers
The money saving option won’t eliminate unpleasantness though, and there can be more work involved. Waste from cloth diapers should be disposed of in the toilet and the diapers should be washed thoroughly. To save a little more money, clean diapers can be dried on the line instead of using a hydro-guzzling dryer.
There are diaper services available for busy parents wanting to use cloth but lacking the time to properly wash them. These services rent out the use of cloth diapers, pick up the dirty diapers and drop off fresh ones. They often supply a pail and bags to collect the soiled ones between pick-up days.
No matter what method is chosen, the range of benefits for deciding on cloth diapers is immense and easily recognized; it’s an option worth looking into.
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