Before he’s potty trained, the average baby will go through approximately 6,000 diapers. Made from wood (cellulose-based inner part), chemicals (absorbent gel) and oil-based materials (protective outer layer), disposable diapers are a concern for many parents. Both their effect on children’s health and the environmental impact have been brought into question.
Disposable diapers are said to contain a trace amount of a chemical called dioxin, a toxic by-product formed during the paper bleaching process. A report by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has linked dioxin exposure to cancer; however, it is still legal in products sold in this country. Diapers also contain the notably harsh chemicals Tributyltin and sodium polyacrylate.
Besides potentially affecting health, disposable diapers affect the environment. About 10 years ago, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimated that diapers made up 3.4 million tons of waste, with over 90% of all single-use diapers being dumped in a landfill. Although no one knows exactly how long a diaper takes to decompose, it’s estimated to be more than 200 years.
Today, many parents are choosing to use cloth diapers on their babies, or they’re turning to environmentally friendly disposables. Made from wood pulp processed without chlorine-containing chemicals, and featuring a non-toxic and hypoallergenic super-absorbent polymer, these diapers give parents peace of mind. And with stretchy-leg gathers and soft, cloth-like comfort, baby’s happy too.