By Owen PalmerCloth diapering is a choice many parents consider, whether for environmental reasons or personal preference. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) notes that cloth diapers are less absorbent than disposables and typically need to be changed more often, and they usually require a stay-dry cover made of plastic, cotton, or terry cloth. Understanding these basics can help you decide if cloth is right for your family and how to use cloth diapers safely at home.
What the American Academy of Pediatrics Says About Cloth Diapers
The AAP explains that cloth diapers are supposedly more comfortable than disposables, though it acknowledges that proving such a claim is difficult. Proponents of cloth diapering often argue that babies who wear cloth are five times less likely to develop diaper rashes. However, the AAP points out that one commonly recommended approach to treating diaper rashes is for cloth diaper users to switch to disposable diapers. So the rash claim is contested, and cloth is no sure way to avoid rashes.
Because cloth diapers are not as absorbent as disposables, they need to be changed more frequently. The AAP also notes that cloth diapers must be worn with an overlying stay-dry cover, which can be made from plastic, cotton, or terry cloth. If you are setting up a safe changing station, keep in mind that you will need a supply of covers and a convenient place to store them.
When it comes to the environment, the AAP reports that the full life cycle of both cloth and disposable diapers has an impact. Studies suggest that disposable diapers use more raw materials and create more solid waste, while cloth diapers consume significantly more water and produce more waterborne wastes. The AAP concludes that declaring environmental superiority is still “a wash.” Cloth diapers made from bamboo are sometimes pointed to as a more eco-friendly alternative to cotton, and the AAP notes that people in the disposable camp point out that washing cloth diapers in small, half-full loads or using a dryer instead of line drying can increase their environmental footprint.
Safe Diaper Changing Steps for Cloth Diapers
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides detailed steps for changing diapers at home to prevent the spread of germs. The CDC emphasizes keeping a hand on the child for safety at all times. After placing the child on a clean diapering surface and unfastening the diaper, clean the diaper area with fresh baby wipes, always wiping from front to back. Keep the dirty diaper and any soiled clothing away from surfaces that cannot be easily cleaned.
For cloth diapers, the CDC says to place used disposable baby wipes in a plastic-lined, lidded trash can, or place cloth wipes in a cloth diaper pail. If the child has pooped, fold the diaper closed and set it aside out of the child’s reach. Later, discard the poop in a toilet, taking care not to touch any other surfaces. Then place the dirty diaper in the trash can or cloth diaper pail. If the child has not pooped, place the dirty diaper directly in the cloth diaper pail. Our diaper pail guide covers the bin side of the setup.
After replacing the diaper and dressing the child, wash the child’s hands with soap and water. Then clean the diapering surface. If it is waterproof, wipe up any visible soil with damp paper towels or a baby wipe, then scrub with a disinfectant spray or wipe and allow the surface to air dry. If the surface has a fabric cover, remove the soiled cover and replace it with a fresh one. Finally, wash your own hands thoroughly with soap and water. The CDC’s childcare setting guidelines add that the entire surface should be wetted with disinfectant, and you should always read and follow the directions on the disinfecting product.
Cloth vs. Disposable at a Glance
The table below summarizes key points from the AAP and CDC about cloth and disposable diapers.
| Topic | Cloth Diapers | Disposable Diapers |
|---|---|---|
| Absorbency | Not as absorbent (AAP) | Very absorbent; may mean less frequent changing but harder to monitor urine output (AAP) |
| Diaper rash | Proponents claim 5× lower risk; however, AAP notes switching to disposables is a common rash treatment approach | Some cloth advocates argue higher rash incidence; AAP says switching to disposables is sometimes recommended for treating rashes |
| Changing frequency | Needs to be changed more frequently (AAP) | May allow less frequent changing due to high absorbency (AAP) |
| Covers | Usually needs a stay-dry cover (plastic, cotton, or terry cloth) (AAP) | No separate cover needed |
| Environmental impact | Uses more water and produces more waterborne wastes; washing in small loads or using a dryer increases impact (AAP) | Uses more raw materials and creates more solid waste; not biodegradable (AAP) |
| Hygiene steps (CDC) | Place cloth wipes in a diaper pail; discard poop in the toilet, then place diaper in pail or trash; disinfect changing surface; wash hands | Place used wipes and diaper in a plastic-lined, lidded trash can; disinfect surface; wash hands |
Frequently asked questions
Do cloth diapers really cause fewer rashes?
The AAP reports that cloth diaper proponents claim babies who wear cloth are five times less likely to develop diaper rash. However, the same AAP article notes that a common rash treatment is to switch from cloth to disposable diapers. This means the relationship between diaper type and rash is not straightforward. If your baby develops a rash, talk to your pediatrician about the best approach for your child’s skin.
What are the CDC steps for changing a cloth diaper at home?
The CDC’s home diapering steps for cloth diapers include: keep a hand on the child, clean the diaper area with wipes from front to back, place disposable wipes in a lined trash can or cloth wipes in a diaper pail, and if the child has pooped, fold the diaper closed and later discard the poop in the toilet. Place the dirty diaper in the pail or trash, wash the child’s hands, disinfect the changing surface (scrub with disinfectant and air dry, or replace a fabric cover), and wash your own hands thoroughly.
Is cloth diapering more eco-friendly than disposables?
According to the AAP, studies that look at the full life cycle of diapers show that cloth diapers use more water and create more waterborne wastes, while disposables use more raw materials and generate more solid waste. The AAP concludes that there is no clear environmental winner. Bamboo-based cloth diapers are sometimes highlighted as a more eco-friendly material choice, but the washing method (load size, line drying vs. machine drying) also plays a big role in the overall environmental impact.
For more guidance on diapering gear, including pails, changing pads, and portable options, visit our Diapering hub. You may also find our baby gear checklist by stage and portable changing pad guide helpful as you prepare for life with a new baby.
Sources
- Diapers: Disposable or Cloth? (HealthyChildren.org, AAP)
- Healthy Habits: Diaper Changing at Home (CDC)
- Diaper Changing Steps for Childcare Settings (CDC)
About Owen Palmer
Owen Palmer is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our baby gear guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.
