Reusable cloth diapers are not all the same. We’ve picked our best advise to choose well your cloth diapers, so that you can really save money and help the environment.
1. Don’t fall into the ‘natural bamboo’ greenwashing trap
If protecting the environment is one of the reasons for taking the dicision to cloth diapering your baby, then it’s important that you know what is actually helping the environment and what is not.
Bamboo viscose is NOT a natural fabric
It’s bamboo viscose, actually one of the most toxic semi-synthetic fabrics on earth thanks to harsh toxic chemicals used and disposed in the production. Sodium hydroxide (caustic soda) and carbon dissulfade are used to dissolve the bamboo pulp, forming a viscous solution (therefore the name ‘viscose’). This process discharges 50% of the toxic solvent. The Changing Markets Foundation’s 2018 investigation revealed a disastrous impact on the environment, workers in factories and local communities. Many fashion brands are already transitioning away from pollutant viscose, however the cloth diaper market is sadly too often taking advantage of the lack of knowledge from people about textiles, to promote cheap viscose.
2. Know the different types of reusable cloth diapers
Check out our guide to cloth diapers to understand each type of cloth diaper – not only the mechanisms, but also the pros and cons of each one, to understand which one is best suited for your baby, home routine and budget.
3. Invest in good absorbent materials
Hemp, Tencel™ lyocell and organic cotton are very absorbent materials, environmentally friendly and retain a good value in the second-hand market. It will pay off in the long run.
‘Microfiber’ inserts, those true material is either polyester, nylon or a combination of both; on the other hand, have little absorption capacity. They can’t prevent leaks when your baby grows and urinates more.
4. Try one before buying lots
No matter how tempting it is to buy a full pack of diapers on discount to make the most economical option. It can end in great disappointment if you have not tested those particular diapers yet. Try out one diaper first, to have a good notion of the product. Then your investment in a full pack will be worth it.
5. Keep it simple
Tempted to buy several complementary accessories, such as liners, specific basket for dry pail, and especific detergent for sanitising cloth diapers? You may end up not needing them at all.
- Your regular detergent may do a good job in cleaning cloth diapers effectively.
- A bucket or laundry basket that you already had at home may work fine as a dry pail.
- And finally, you don’t need liners at all.
6. Know your consumer rights
The EU Regulations give customers a minimum 2-year guarantee at no cost, regardless of whether you buy your goods online or in a physical store. In Portugal this warranty is enhanced to 3 years.
Help with reusable cloth diapers
So, there you have it, a list of tips that will help you on your journey on how to choose reusable cloth diapers for your baby. If you have any questions about cloth diapers, we are very happy to help you. Reach out to our team on the Live chat, DM on Instagram or Contact us.