Many parents can't imagine life without disposable diapers. They have become vastly popular since their mainstream introduction in the 1970, and as of 2010, the disposable diaper industry is a multi-billion-dollar business. Disposable diapers are readily available and convenient to use. They do, however, have some disadvantages that the average consumer may not be aware of.
Cost
Disposable diapers can be expensive. Many brands are available at different price tags, and although store brands are often less expensive, you may end up paying more due to the difference in quality between the two. According to the Real Diaper Association, a child will use approximately 6,000 diapers up to the age of two; this equates to around $800 annually or around $66 per month. You won't save money as your child gets older and uses fewer diapers as diaper manufacturers simply reduce the number of diapers in each pack; essentially you are spending approximately the same amount each month.
Environment
According to the "The New York Times," over 20 years ago an estimated 16 million disposable diapers loaded with 2.8 million tons of excrement were dumped annually in landfill sites throughout the U.S.; the figures have since increased vastly. Most disposable diapers are not biodegradable and may take hundreds of years to fully decompose. Disposable diapers also require valuable renewable resources like crude oil and wood in their manufacture.
Diaper Rash
Diaper rash is caused by many factors, including prolonged contact with urine or stools with the skin. Even though disposable diapers absorb and lock away moisture, there is still a slight wetness to your baby's bottom, which can lead to skin irritation and the surface of the skin breaking down resulting in diaper rash. Your child may be allergic to the material used in certain brands of disposable diapers, which can also lead to diaper rash.
Health
Disposable diapers contain certain chemicals such as Tributyl-tin (TBT), which is known to cause hormone problems. Trace amounts of dioxine can be found. Dioxine is produced during the bleaching process of paper and is a carcinogenic chemical. Disposables also contain sodium polyacrylate, which become gel-like crystals when they absorb and lock moisture; sodium polyacrylate has been associated with toxic shock syndrome. Bear in mind that not all disposable diapers have these problems.
Infant feces contains numerous strains of bacteria and viruses, which are potentially hazardous to sanitation workers. They can be transmitted by flies or may contaminate ground water.
Potty Training
It may take your child longer to potty train using disposable diapers. Disposable diapers are designed to absorb moisture so your child won't get a feeling of wetness. With a cloth diaper, she will feel uncomfortable sooner.
