Cloth Diapers vs. Disposable Diapers: The Cost, Health, and Environmental Impact

Many parents switch to cloth diapers to save money, reduce waste, and avoid harsh chemicals found in disposables.

On average, using disposables can cost $2,000–$3,000 per child, while a full stash of cloth diapers costs $300–$800, depending on the brand and type. Cloth diapers also eliminate exposure to chemicals like dioxins and fragrances, making them a safer choice for sensitive skin. Environmentally, cloth diapers prevent thousands of disposable diapers from ending up in landfills, where they take hundreds of years to break down. While cloth requires washing, the long-term benefits in cost savings, health, and sustainability make it a worthwhile investment for many families.