Did you know that in the U.S. alone, 50 million disposable diapers are used a day. A DAY! Disposable diapers take 200-500 years to decompose and are the 3rd largest contributor to landfill waste. It takes 3.5 times more energy to make disposable diapers than it does to use reusable ones. Ugh! No worries though, there are green alternatives out there, here are some to get you started.
#1: Reusable Diapers:
If you can, choose organic cotton, bamboo or hemp reusable diapers. You can either wash them yourself at home (this is the least expensive green diaper option in the long run) or choose a diaper service that will pick up the soiled diapers and leave you with fresh ones. Bamboo and hemp are naturally antibacterial and hypoallergenic and bamboo absorbs 60% more moisture than cotton and dries twice as fast. Hemp improves in absorbency and softens after washing.
#2: Biodegradable Diapers:
You can also choose a biodegradable diaper. However, these diapers are only compostable in an earthworm bin. You could also try a flushable diaper such as . These cloth diapers have a special insert that is both biodegradable and you can flush them down the potty.
Are you looking for a great alternative to those wasteful baby wipes? Here is a natural recipe for a great baby bum cleanser that will eliminate your need for baby wipes.
What you will need:
- 2 organic chamomile tea bags
- 1 tbsp hemp oil
- reusable cloths
Directions:
Steep 2 organic chamomile tea bags for 15 minutes, add 1 tbsp hemp oil and whisk well. Add to a clean reusable spray pump bottle. Shake well. At diaper change time, spritz cleanser onto a clean washable cloth and clean baby’s bottom. Keep refrigerated when not in use.
What type of diaper do you use on your baby? Would you try homemade baby wipes?
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