The diaper debate
THE diaper debate is never-ending, especially for first-time parents. In fact, if you’re a Jamaican mom-to-be, your mother may have tried to convince you that nappies are more supportive of children’s ‘shape’ and waistline development. But are nappies truly superior to disposable diapers? The decision, according to Dr Anona Griffith, paediatrician at Gateway Plaza, is a matter of choice.
“Diapers and babies go together like a horse and carriage,” she said. “The decision to use disposables versus reusables is entirely a personal one. There are benefits and there are drawbacks for both, but we see many families choosing disposables over reusables, and there are many reasons for this choice.”
According to the doctor, reusable diapers have changed significantly over the years. Formerly made of terry cloth, and square or rectangular in shape — requiring a special folding technique and fastening with the use of safety pins — they are now seamlessly applicable items that closely resemble their disposable counterparts. These changes, however, have not been able to surpass the convenience of disposables.
Below, Dr Griffith has compiled a list of advantages and disadvantages of both types of diapers to save you the hassle of going through scores of research pages or falling victim to baseless myths.
Advantages of using cloth diapers:
•Cloth diapers are easy to use and they are reusable. You just need soap and water to make them clean again.
•Many come with eco-friendly, flushable liners that are easily replaced.
•They are environmentally friendly. The materials used include cotton, hemp, bamboo and some are biodegradable.
•They are cost- effective in the long term. They may be a little pricey at the outset, but value for money is realised with repeated use. They can also be used for other infants; for example, siblings.
•They are readily available, and so you are less likely to run out once you keep them clean.
•The current designs are easy to use. They have improved padding, closure mechanisms, and waterproof portions to prevent leakage in comparison to previous designs.
The drawbacks:
•They require clean running water
•They will take some time to wash and hang dry.
•They may not be permitted in the daycare setting.
•Associated costs for laundering such as soap, water, electricity.
For disposable diapers, convenience is noted as the most common reason parents choose them, especially those who work outside the home. Other advantages include:
•They are more absorbent than reusable diapers.
•You don’t need to change the baby as often as with nappies.
•Anecdotally, they are associated with lower cases of diaper rash as a result of extended exposure of the infant’s skin to urine.
The drawbacks:
•They are not biodegradable
•If incorrectly disposed of, waste can contaminate water supplies
•There have been questions as to the chemicals used in the production of disposable diapers and their long-term effects, not only on the environment but also on the wearer.
Dr Griffith notes that parents have opted to use diapers alternately — reusable diapers at home and disposables when outside the home so as to take advantage of the benefits of each while limiting the drawbacks.
“It must be borne in mind that regardless of the choice made, the basic rules of proper hygiene still apply and must be adhered to, especially hand washing with soap before and after changing any diaper. Diapers should be checked often so as to prevent rashes or extended periods of contact with urine,” Dr Griffith advised.
