Babies come with a big luggage of love, toys and, of course, diapers. They are a must-have in a baby’s first years. The big question is which are the healthiest disposable diapers to use?
You want the best for your baby and you want to protect his health. Irritations and allergies have no place in the discussion.
What if I told you that conventional diapers contain several chemicals which can be harmful to your baby’s health?
Not all of them have an immediate effect. Some may take time until you will see visible effects on your baby.
Now that I’ve mentioned the chemicals used in diapers, you may be wondering whether the products you find in stores are safe for your baby.
While I cannot say which is good and which is not, I can tell you more about the chemicals you may want to stay away from.
What chemicals are used in disposable diapers?
Here are some of the most common chemicals found in disposable diapers.
Sodium Polyacrylate (SAP)
Have you ever wondered what makes a diaper really absorbent? Well, the answer stands in the Sodium Polyacrylate.
The chemical is added to the inner pad and it gives the diaper the power to absorb up to 100 times its weight in liquid such as water.
So far, so good. The problem with Sodium Polyacrylate is that it absorbs all the natural moisture and dries the baby’s skin.
We’re not referring here to urine, but to the skin’s natural moisture.
It creates the perfect environment for irritations and rashes.
The chemical can stick to your little one’s genitals. You can find them in small gelatinous crystals. It’s also linked to:
- fever
- vomiting
- staph infections
Dioxins
Diapers are generally bleached with chlorine. This process results in dioxins in the diapers.
They are known as one of the most dangerous and most toxic carcinogens.
Although they are not found in large quantities, even in small amounts they represent a danger to your baby’s health.
Phthalates
Phthalates are plastic softeners which can also be found in diapers.
They are known for being endocrine disruptors, meaning they mimic human hormones and can give the body wrong signals.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
Diapers can release VOCs.
Here are a few examples of VOCs:
- xylene
- ethylbenzene
- toluene
VOCs have been linked to immunity problems, eye irritations, and neurological issues.
How do diapers affect the environment?
Do you know how many diapers are used annually? Just in the US, babies use around 27.4 billion disposable diapers per year.
Now think about the entire world and the fact that most disposable diapers are made from plastic.
During a two-year period, a baby creates 2000 pounds of garbage through the diapers he or she wears. In other words, a ton of garbage.
The decomposing process takes at least 500 years. With billions of used diapers being thrown away every year, we are constantly filling the environment with toxic waste. Literally.
Disposable diapers occupy the third place as the largest consumer item found in landfills.
If this continues in the same direction, the soil, waters, and air will be greatly polluted by toxic chemicals found in plastic (material) and diapers (as the ones we’ve mentioned previously).
The fauna and flora will be put in danger because of the toxins present in the environment.
Healthiest disposable diapers: how do you find them?
With all the chemicals and environmental damages we’ve mentioned, it may seem really difficult to find a product which is healthy and safe for the environment.
Don’t worry, there are solutions. I’m going to tell you more about how to find the healthiest disposable diapers.
Here are a few characteristics you should look for:
- chlorine-free
- dye-free
- perfume-free
- latex-free
- biodegradable or compostable
You may find products which fit all or some of the characteristics. It’s up to you to choose the one which suits your needs.
There is a great chance you will find many chlorine-free disposable diapers. They are one of the healthiest disposable diapers.
These products have not been bleached, meaning they do not contain dioxin.
If you’re wondering about the quality of the product, let me tell you that some of the healthiest disposable diapers are as good or even better than conventional products.
They have an excellent absorbency performance, do not leak, fit your baby, and are comfortable.
They may be a little more expensive as compared to conventional diapers, but you are paying a small price for taking care of your baby and of nature.
Cloth diapers: another option in for healthy diapers
Cloth diapers are another healthy option for your baby.
Although new diaper products have been developed over time, cloth diapers still remain a great choice for parents.
A good cloth diaper can be used up to 100 or even 200 times. Nowadays’ safe products are made of organic cotton and are not bleached.
You need to pay attention to the product information when buying a cloth diaper.
If you believe cloth diapers are not for you, go for the healthiest disposable diapers.