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If you're on the search for the best organic diapers, I've got you covered! In this post, I'll help you understand the labels and language associated with diaper packaging, so that you can choose the best chemical-free, non-toxic diaper for your baby that is also eco-friendly!When you're a new parent, you want to give your baby the best of everything! That likely includes choosing diapers that are not harmful to their delicate skin. Maybe you've considered cloth diapers, or even given them a try, but the constant washing, drying, and blowout messes became too much to handle.
That's ok! I've got you covered!
Whether you're looking for an organic diaper that isn't harmful to your baby, or one that minimizes harm to the earth, it is possible to find disposable diapers that does both, and avoids leaks and blowouts!
When I had my first baby I was convinced that I was going to use cloth diapers. I looked into many cloth diaper options, and settled on one that would be able to grow with my baby. They also looked easy enough to clean!
I thought it was a great option for both my baby and the earth. Just think of all the diapers I'd be saving from the landfill. Plus, all the money I'd be saving by not having to buy diapers!
Then reality set in! The constant changing, washing, drying, felt like a never ending job - and I found out that even the services that launder cloth diapers for parents aren't exactly carbon-neutral.
That's when I started to investigate organic diapers. If I was going to go the disposable route I wanted to find a diaper that was gentle on my baby, and had limited harm to the earth.
It turns out the two go hand in hand. The chemicals that are potentially harmful to your baby that are found in diapers, are also harmful to earth.
Did you know that diapers account for 3.5 million tons of waste annually according to the EPA? Not only that but diapers introduce pathogens into our environment that can contaminate our drinking water.
The challenge is that diapers are not closely regulated. Therefore, the ingredients used to make them can vary greatly depending on the brand you buy.
What Are Organic Diapers?
Diapers that are labeled organic must have at least 95% organic certified fibers, and those that are labeled "made with organic" must have at least 40% organic certified fibers. This is certified by the the Global Organic Textile Standard or GOTS.
But that's not all that should be considered when finding the best diaper for your baby. You also want to consider the materials and chemicals used.
When I refer to organic diapers I am referring to those that are made without harmful chemicals. There are many different diaper brands that use eco-friendly ingredients, organic cotton, bamboo, and other organic ingredients, but because they are not 95% organic fibers, they cannot use the word on their packaging.
When I refer to organic diapers, they are ones that do not use harmful ingredients, and are healthier for both your baby and the earth.
Why Choose Organic Diapers?
- They are chemical-free, and gentler on your baby.
- They are kinder to the earth.
- Many brands are biodegradable.
- Naturally hypoallergenic.
- Ideal for babies with sensitive skin.
What Should I Look For In An Eco-Friendly Diaper?
If you want to be sure your baby's diaper doesn't take 500 years to biodegrade in the landfill, then you will want to consider eco-friendly diapers. These types of diapers use plant-based materials such as bamboo, that are biodegradable. Bamboo biodegrades 100% in soil! Bonus!
Bamboo is an eco-friendly material for a few reasons. Bamboo grows more quickly and more easily than trees. It is able to survive easily without the use of chemicals or pesticides. It is also very soft, naturally hypoallergenic, and absorbent, making it an excellent material.
Other ingredients to look for include natural inks, dyes, and adhesives. While most of the ingredients in a diaper can be safe, chemicals and irritants can be in the dyes and waist-bands.
What Chemicals Should Be Avoided In Diapers?
Whether you're using a diaper made from bamboo materials, or something else, steer clear of these chemicals frequently added to other regular brands.
Chlorine: This is used in some diaper brands to bleach the color. However, it can cause irritation, and over an extended period of time lead to other complications.
Tributyltin (TBT): There are concerns about TBT on the health of children since TBT is toxic to aquatic life.
Phthalates: This chemical is harmful to humans as it is an endocrine disruptor and possible human carcinogen. Diapers that are fragranced emit phthalates into the air that baby can breathe, while also being absorbed through the skin.
Latex: A common allergen, latex in diapers might cause a reaction in some children.
Parabens: Parabens can disrupt the immune system, as well as growth in the first few years of life. Luckily, most brands do not contain parabens.
What Are The Best Non-Toxic Eco-Friendly Diapers?
Organic Diaper FAQs
Conclusion: Best Organic Diapers
When you're on the search for the best diaper, there's a lot to consider.
- Will this diaper prevent leaks and blowouts?
- Is this diaper safe on my baby's skin?
- Will this diaper have long term harmful health implications?
- How does this diaper effect our environment?
The bottom line, is you want the best for your baby, and you want a prosperous environment for them in the future. Using an eco-friendly diaper that is free of harmful chemicals, and is also soft, comfortable, and fuss free, is the best bet for you and your child!
