Are Diapers Biodegradable?
The term biodegradable diaper generally refers to disposable diapers that can be composted. If diapers were biodegradable, it is estimated they will begin to biodegrade after a few hundred years. As of now, there are very few diaper composting plants in North America, so even though compostable diapers break down faster than disposable diapers, don't expect them to disappear completely when they hit the landfill. Traditional diapers typically contain petroleum, polyester, stearyl alcohol, thermoplastic polymer, polyacrylic acid, fragrance, and many more kinds of materials. Some of these materials, such as plastic and petroleum, end up breaking down extremely slowly.
Sustainable or Natural Diapers are free of some common chemicals found in traditional diapers and generally have less of a harmful impact on the environment. Sustainable does not equal compostable, keep that in mind. They’re generally made from some plant-based materials—the percentage of which can vary wildly brand-by-brand.
Here Are The Chemical Compounds Present In Traditional Diapers That You Should Be Avoided:
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Tributyltin (TBT)
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Synthetic dyes and perfumes
Diapers use synthetic dyes, most common for the cute colored prints they have on the outside and for the colored straps and strips that inform you whether the baby needs to be changed (wetness indicators). Some brands also use perfumes to mask the odor of a soiled diaper.
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Dioxins
Dioxins are persistent organic pollutants. Diaper bleaching produces them as a by-product. Dioxins are carcinogenic and have been linked to long-term health problems. According to The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), dioxins are highly toxic.
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Phthalates (Give H3)
Adhesives, dyes, and perfumes in diapers contain phthalates, too, which are preferred for softening plastics. You can have an adverse reaction to phthalates at any age, but it's more likely to occur in children and unborn babies.
Are Cloth Diapers Better Than Disposable Diapers?
You're an eco-conscious parent who wants to reduce the impact of diapering on the environment. Perhaps you should choose cloth diapers instead of disposable diapers?
It is certainly a hot debate over cloth diapers and disposable diapers and which choice is inherently greener. Cloth diaper users advocates cite the astronomical impact on landfills of disposable diapers, a fact that cannot be denied. Additionally, they advocate cloth because of its lower costs over the long term and the natural materials it consists of.
The users of disposable diapers, however, cites energy usage and water costs, as well as cotton production and its environmental impact, among other reasons for claiming cloth diapering is less eco-friendly than one might think. Growing and harvesting cotton (along with washing and caring for cloth diapers) has a significant water impact, and cotton, in general, has a high carbon footprint.
Is it a good idea to switch to an Eco-Friendly Natural Diaper?
More and more research studies have shown going green is always best and comes with many benefits to our planet and children. We believe it should be a standard for all products and no exception when it comes to baby products, especially those in such close contact with the skin and used daily. Parents who are concerned about the environment should look into eco-friendly diaper options. Natural and eco-friendly diapers stay away from plastic ingredients and chemicals which cause irritation and skin reactions, especially in babies with very sensitive skin. The comfort and well-being of our children are of the most importance. There are options to make better choices for them and keep our planet healthy.
Natural diapers are usually hypoallergenic, this is achieved by not containing chemicals, dyes, chlorine, fragrances, and plastic substances, such as phthalates and latex.
Experts recommend shopping for non-toxic natural diaper products that are chlorine-free. Chlorine is usually used to bleach diapers. Parents should be aware of the potential short- and long-term health impacts that can come about due to using products with chlorine.
If you have not checked out our Clear+Dry™ Natural Disposable Diapers yet, we’d like to invite you to give us a try! We have a free shipping diaper sampling program, don’t settle for a generic brand that doesn't put babies’ well-being first. Parents rave about our diapers' softness, absorbency, RashShield™ certification, as well as the convenience of wetness indicators. Unlike traditional diapers that often have a thick, bulky design, Parasol natural diapers have an ultra-thin core, giving them a much lighter feel and helping to reduce the diapers’ carbon footprint and added comfort to your child as they play, nap and adventure. Our breathable design and special RashShield™ fabrics help prevent diaper rash and the ingredients list is free of things like chlorine, alcohol, dyes, fragrances, and latex.
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