Are Cloth Diapers Really More Sustainable Than Disposable Diapers?

Photo by @isabelplett

Today, we are discussing a topic that is particularly close to our hearts: sustainability in the choice of diapers. If you are expecting a child or are already fortunate enough to be a parent, you will know that diapers are an indispensable part of everyday life with your baby. Have you ever wondered what impact the choice of diapers can have on the environment and the future of your child?

In modern baby care, where sustainability is becoming increasingly important, we must confront this question. As modern parents, we want not only the best for our children but also to make a positive contribution to the environment. The diaper you choose for your baby reflects not only how important comfort and practicality are to you but also your responsibility for the world your child grows up in. It is a decision with far-reaching implications and shows your willingness to think outside the box.

What makes cloth diapers sustainable? Cloth diapers are sustainable because they are reusable and significantly reduce waste production. They are made from natural or recycled materials, which are more environmentally friendly than the plastics and chemicals used in disposable diapers. Additionally, their use decreases the demand for raw materials and energy needed for the production and disposal of disposable diapers.

At Judes, we understand that as a parent, you face important decisions daily that affect not only your child but also our planet. Therefore, we want to offer you not only information but also support. We believe that a conscious approach to resources and the choice of sustainable products can make a big difference - both for your family and the environment.

Choosing sustainable diapers is a step toward securing a livable future for your child. We want to help you understand the various aspects of this decision and show you how you can make a positive contribution by choosing the right diapers. In this article, you will find answers to the following questions:

• What is the share of disposable diapers in our waste?
• What are disposable diapers made of?
• What other problems do disposable diapers bring?
• What is in cloth diapers or Judes?
• Why are cloth diapers better than eco-diapers?
• Are cloth diapers more sustainable than disposable diapers despite washing?

The Environmental Footprint of Disposable Diapers

It is almost unimaginable, but each child uses approximately 5,000 disposable diapers during their diapering years, which amounts to about one ton of diaper waste. In Germany alone, disposable diapers account for 10 - 15% of the total residual waste. That is about 154,680 tons of diaper waste produced annually by all the children in Germany. Across the entire EU, an estimated 33 billion disposable diapers are used each year, leading to an incredible 6.7 million tons of waste. These figures illustrate the significant share of disposable diapers in our waste production and the burden they represent for our environment.

Disposal of Disposable Diapers: A Complex Problem

However, the sheer volume of waste generated is not the only issue, as disposable diapers cause more than just overflowing trash bins. More concerning is where the diapers end up afterward.

Once the diapers have been discarded as residual waste, they take various paths: either ending up in landfills or incineration plants. The waste is mixed there to be burned more efficiently. However, this process not only generates electricity and heat, but also produces CO₂ and toxic fumes. Even through this process, disposable diapers and the chemicals they contain cannot be entirely incinerated. The residues, along with filtered materials, are treated as hazardous waste and placed in final repositories. The toxic mass is stored in former mines, where it continues to harm the environment, as there is a risk that toxins may enter the groundwater. You can learn more about this topic in our article “The Unbelievable Truth About Disposable Diapers”.

Export and Illegal Disposal of Waste

Our waste problem is not limited to Germany. Through vacations and illegal exports, our waste also reaches abroad. In countries outside the EU, disposal standards are often lower. There, German disposable diapers and other waste are disposed of in less advanced landfills. This results in a direct burden on the environment, the wildlife, and the people in these regions.

Disposable Diapers and the Ocean

Disposable diapers are also part of the global problem of plastic pollution in the seas. They take about 450 years to decompose, during which they break down into microplastics that are ingested by marine animals and ultimately enter our food chain. In addition to being directly disposed of in the ocean, rivers and floods contribute to diaper residues from residual waste entering our oceans. An estimated 8 to 13 million tons of plastic waste end up in our seas each year. Disposable diapers contribute to this urgent environmental issue.

Photo by Naja Bertolt Jensen on Unsplash

The Costs of Disposal

The disposal of disposable diapers is not only harmful to the environment but also costly. Ultimately, the costs for collection, transport, and incineration or landfill storage are covered by tax revenue, meaning that the entire society pays for the disposal of these products.

Why Recycling is Not an Option

Recycling disposable diapers is not possible due to their composition and the feces they contain. The materials in disposable diapers are complex and intricately combined, making recycling virtually impossible.

These facts show that the choice of diapers is more than a matter of comfort and convenience. It is about the responsibility towards our environment and future generations. The decision for or against disposable diapers has far-reaching impacts on the Earth and our society.

The Hidden Problems of Disposable Diapers: Environmental and Health Aspects

The composition of disposable diapers is complex and raises numerous concerns from both environmental and health perspectives. Do you know what disposable diapers are made of? We will show you:

• Plastic: The majority of a disposable diaper is made up of plastics derived from petroleum. These materials are not biodegradable and contribute to long-term environmental pollution. Additionally, plastics in diapers may contain potentially harmful additives that can irritate the skin or cause allergic reactions.
• Non-woven fabric: Non-woven fabrics in diapers can consist of both natural and synthetic fibers. While natural fibers like cotton represent a more environmentally friendly option, synthetic fibers like polyester or polypropylene are more commonly found. These materials are less breathable and can cause skin irritation.
• Pulp: The pulp in disposable diapers is typically derived from wood. The sustainability of this process highly depends on whether the wood comes from responsible forestry, which is often not transparent. The use of bleaching agents and brighteners for chemical treatment of pulp can produce undesirable byproducts, which are concerning both for the environment and for health.
• Super absorbers: The absorbent core of disposable diapers consists of super absorbers, mainly polyacrylates. These substances can absorb large amounts of liquid but contain chemicals that are potentially harmful. Residual monomers from the production of these polymers can enter the environment and harm aquatic organisms.

Health Concerns Regarding Disposable Diapers

The health concerns associated with disposable diapers are multifaceted, particularly affecting the sensitive skin of babies and toddlers:

• Chemical irritants: Disposable diapers often contain fragrances, lotions, and other additives that can cause allergies and skin irritations. These substances are often not adequately tested for their long-term effects on sensitive baby skin.
• Skin contact with super absorbers: The super absorbers used in disposable diapers, predominantly based on polyacrylates, are suspected of causing skin irritations. The skin of babies is particularly permeable and sensitive, facilitating the uptake of residual monomers from these materials. These chemical residues can trigger allergic reactions or other skin issues.
• Risks from bleaching agents and optical brighteners: In the production of the pulp used in disposable diapers, bleaching agents and optical brighteners are often employed. These chemicals can leave residues that come into direct contact with baby skin and potentially be harmful.
• Absorption of harmful substances: Some chemicals used in disposable diapers, like certain types of phthalates and dioxins, can be harmful to health. These substances are suspected of causing hormonal disorders and can have long-term health impacts.
• Overheating and fertility issues: There is evidence that wearing disposable diapers, especially for boys, can lead to overheating of the genital area. This overheating could potentially impair testicular development and long-term fertility.
• Long-term exposure: Since children wear diapers for several years, the long-term exposure to chemicals in disposable diapers is particularly concerning. This is mainly true for babies and toddlers, whose bodies are still developing and more sensitive to environmental influences.

Researchers found in disposable diapers more than 60 chemicals, including some that have been banned in Europe for over 15 years, and other substances usually found in cigarette smoke or diesel exhaust. Thus, disposable diapers are proven to contain chemicals that are likely absorbed over time through the skin or genitals, as explained by biologist Katie O’Reilly. Prolonged exposure to these chemicals increases the risk of asthma, certain cancers, and reproductive disorders.

These health concerns highlight the need to consider alternatives to traditional disposable diapers. Cloth diapers offer a way to significantly reduce exposure to harmful chemicals while ensuring the comfort and health of the delicate baby skin.

Photo by Julia Koblitz on Unsplash

Ecological Concerns: Chemicals and Sustainability

Disposable diapers contain a variety of chemicals that raise serious concerns about their sustainability. Particularly problematic are per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, also known as PFAS. These are often referred to as "forever chemicals" because they take thousands of years to degrade. PFAS are found not only in disposable diapers but also in everyday products such as furniture, cosmetics, and food packaging.

Spread of PFAS in the Environment

These chemicals escape into the environment not only during production and use but also spread far beyond. They enter the air, the seawater, and ultimately the entire natural cycle. Rainwater carries PFAS into our groundwater, from where they enter our food chain and eventually into our bodies. The ubiquity of these chemicals was recently confirmed by reports showing PFAS even in rainwater worldwide—in concentrations considered hazardous by health authorities.

Health Risks from PFAS

The health impacts of PFAS are severe. They are considered carcinogenic, impair fertility, and can weaken the immune system, negatively affecting vaccine efficacy. In children, PFAS can even delay physical and mental development. The long-term effects of these chemicals have not yet been fully explored, causing additional concern.

The presence of PFAS and other chemicals in disposable diapers is not only a health issue but also contradicts the principles of sustainability. These chemicals cause long-term environmental damage that persists over generations, affecting both ecosystems and human health. Choosing against disposable diapers and for environmentally friendly alternatives like cloth diapers thus becomes an important step towards a more sustainable and healthier future.

Cloth Diapers as a Sustainable Alternative

Cloth diapers offer an eco-friendly alternative to disposable diapers by being made from reusable materials and sustainable production. At its core, the concept of cloth diapers involves a waterproof outer shell and an absorbent core that quickly absorbs urine while being gentle on the skin. The choice of materials is crucial for their environmental compatibility and functionality.

Many cloth diapers, including those from Judes, use organic cotton for the absorbent part. Organic cotton is a renewable resource that is sustainably sourced, unlike petroleum, the main component of plastic. It has the advantage of being breathable, absorbent, and skin-friendly. Additionally, cotton absorbs CO₂ during its growth process, contributing positively to climate protection.

Judes Cloth Diapers: Composition and Benefits

Judes cloth diapers are a two-part system, consisting of an inner diaper and a separate outer cover. The inner diaper is made of organic cotton, while the outer cover is made of 100% recycled PUL. With infinitely adjustable Velcro fasteners, the diaper can be optimally adjusted to the shape of your child's body. This approach minimizes the use of new plastic materials and promotes the reuse of existing resources.

Judes covers contain an internal polyurethane membrane that ensures waterproofing and is protected by an additional layer. This extends the life of the diaper and reduces the need for new purchases. The Poo Paper, a diaper liner that catches bowel movements, is made of paper at Judes, which represents a more environmentally friendly option than plastic-based liners.

Another important advantage of Judes cloth diapers is the promotion of toilet training. The breathable properties of organic cotton help children develop a better sense of wetness and therefore learn to be dry earlier. Additionally, the overheating of testicles in boys, a potential problem with the use of disposable diapers, is reduced by the more breathable materials of cloth diapers.

I have personally experienced—and was amazed—that children with cloth diapers are actually ready to part with their diapers earlier. Both of my children clearly showed at 14 months that they no longer wanted to wear a diaper. They were able to assess their physical needs and processes incredibly well, resulting in very few accidents thereafter. Many children in our circle of friends who were diapered with disposable diapers, however, continued to wear them until the third or even fourth year of life.

Photo by @kerstinbrigitteposch

Sustainability and Durability

The sustainability of cloth diapers like Judes lies not only in the use of organic cotton and recycled polyester but also in their durability. The robust design and high-quality materials ensure that the diapers can be reused over a long period, even for multiple children. This significantly reduces the environmental impact of diaper production and disposal.

I have also had positive experiences here: Our cloth diapers were worn by two children and are still in perfect condition. They are now being resold at more than a fair price and will accompany the next child through the diapering years.

Cloth diapers like those from Judes offer an environmentally and health-friendly alternative to disposable diapers. By using sustainable materials, reducing plastics, and promoting reuse, they help reduce environmental impact while simultaneously offering benefits for children's health and development.

The choice of cloth diapers is therefore more than a decision for your child's comfort and health—it is a decision that contributes to the protection of our environment and the promotion of a more sustainable future.

Cloth Diapers vs. Eco Diapers: A Comparison

Eco diapers are often promoted as a better alternative to traditional disposable diapers because they seem more environmentally friendly at first glance. They generally contain biodegradable components and avoid some of the most harmful chemicals found in regular disposable diapers. But how sustainable are they really?

Despite their name, eco diapers are not fully compostable. Many components, such as the super absorber and plastic parts, are not biodegradable. This means that even eco diapers ultimately end up in landfills or incineration plants, and thus do not significantly reduce the waste production problem.

Some eco diapers also use bioplastics, which, while an alternative to petroleum-based plastics, can still be problematic. They can contain toxic chemicals, the effects of which on humans and the environment are not sufficiently researched.

The Advantages of Cloth Diapers Over Eco Diapers

Cloth diapers offer several clear advantages even compared to eco diapers:

1. Reusability: Cloth diapers can be reused over a long period of time. This reduces not only waste but also the need to constantly buy new diapers.
2. Fewer Chemicals: Compared to eco diapers, which may contain chemical super absorbers, cloth diapers offer a chemical-free option. Judes' cloth diapers have an absorbent core made from organic cotton and do not use harmful chemicals.
3. Health Benefits: Since cloth diapers contain fewer chemicals and are more breathable, they reduce the risk of skin irritations and allergic reactions. This is particularly important for the sensitive skin of babies.
4. Cost Savings in the Long Run: Although the initial cost of cloth diapers may be higher, they are a cost-effective solution in the long term. As they are reusable, there are no ongoing costs for purchasing new diapers, as is the case with disposable and eco diapers.
5. Sustainability: Due to their durability and reusability, cloth diapers significantly contribute to reducing environmental impact. They decrease waste and the need for resources for the constant production of new diapers.

While eco diapers are certainly a better choice than conventional disposable diapers, cloth diapers offer an even greater advantage in terms of environmental compatibility and health. They are a long-term sustainable solution that protects the environment and promotes children's well-being.

Photo by @kerstinbrigitteposch

Sustainability in the Washing Process of Cloth Diapers

The washing of cloth diapers is an essential component of their sustainability. It is not uncommon for parents to wonder whether cloth diapers are the more sustainable option despite the constant washing.

The water consumption in the production of disposable diapers is significant, with the production of wood chips alone, from which the pulp is obtained, requiring 179 liters/kg of water. In contrast, the water consumption for washing cloth diapers is significantly lower with modern washing machines in energy efficiency class A. Studies by the Environment Agency have shown that the water consumption for cloth diapers per wash load is around 53 liters. This is significantly less than the water consumption for producing the same amount of disposable diapers.

Water Consumption in the Production of Judes

Do you want to know about the water consumption in the production of Judes? According to Vogue, organic cotton has a standard "water consumption" of 243 liters/kg. A Judes inner diaper weighs 100 g, which means it uses about 24.3 liters per diaper.

We consciously put "water consumption" in quotation marks because it involves rainwater that is not sourced from groundwater. In contrast, the production of disposable diapers uses groundwater or treated water. This results in higher energy expenditure for obtaining water for disposable diaper production. In terms of water consumption, cloth diapers clearly have the advantage.

Tips for Eco-Friendly Washing of Cloth Diapers

1. Full Wash Loads: To minimize water consumption, cloth diapers should be washed in full loads. Optimally using the washing machine increases efficiency and reduces overall water consumption. After the pre-wash, you can add regular laundry and wash them together with the diapers.
2. Washing Temperature: A washing temperature of 60°C is recommended. This provides a good balance between hygienic cleaning and energy efficiency.
3. Eco Detergents: Using sustainable detergents is important. Liquid detergents containing microplastics should be avoided. Powder detergents in plastic-free packaging or special detergents for cloth diapers, such as Judes Family Care, are more environmentally friendly alternatives.
4. Air Drying: Air drying is the most energy-efficient method to dry cloth diapers. In summer, they can dry quickly outside, and even when dried indoors, they are usually ready to use quickly. If you need them quickly, Judes can also be easily dried in a dryer.
5. Energy Efficiency of Washing Machine and Dryer: Modern washing machines and dryers with high energy efficiency ratings significantly reduce energy consumption.

If washed every four days, you can estimate around 91 washes per year. Since children with cloth diapers often become diaper-free earlier, the diapering period is shorter than with disposable diapers. In this example, however, we assume diapering lasts for three years: That results in 273 wash loads. Thus, washing Judes uses 14,000 liters of water. Since you can add household laundry to the Judes diaper wash, this can further improve the water balance.

Energy and CO₂ Balance of Cloth Diapers

The overall balance of energy consumption and CO₂ emissions when using cloth diapers is significantly better than with disposable diapers. When used and cared for properly, cloth diapers have a significantly lower environmental impact. Additionally, consumers can further reduce the carbon footprint of their laundry by choosing renewable energy.

According to the Umweltbundesamt, generating 1 kWh of electricity requires 485 g of CO₂ equivalents (as of 2021). This includes all types of electricity (renewable and non-renewable). What are CO₂ equivalents? Besides CO₂, other gases considered in CO₂ equivalents contribute to the greenhouse effect.

Since with the Judes All-in Set, washing is only needed every four days, we base our calculation on the following:

Washing every four days for three years results in 274 washes. 274 washes require 274 kWh of electricity and consume approximately 133 kg CO₂ equivalents.

In comparison, disposable diapers consume according to the study by the Environment Agency 550 kg CO₂ equivalents per child. The share of renewable energy in Germany is about 41% according to the Umweltbundesamt (as of 2021). The more people use renewable energy, the better the average CO₂ balance when washing. The CO₂ balance of cloth diapers is already better than that of disposable diapers on average.

Although washing cloth diapers uses water and energy, it is significantly more sustainable compared to the production and disposal of disposable diapers. Through conscious washing and drying, consumers can further reduce the ecological footprint of their cloth diapers. Cloth diapers are thus a significantly more sustainable option, contributing not only to waste reduction but also significantly reducing the consumption of natural resources.

Switching to cloth diapers has significant positive impacts on the environment. By reducing water consumption in production, avoiding disposable waste, and reducing energy consumption in washing and drying, cloth diapers offer an eco-conscious alternative that benefits both current and future generations.

Conclusion: Cloth Diapers are Undoubtedly More Sustainable than Disposable Diapers

After delving into the topic, I would like to summarize the key insights for you. The research and analysis clearly show that cloth diapers are more sustainable in many ways than disposable diapers.

The Problem with Disposable Diapers:

Disposable diapers not only pose a significant waste problem but are also concerning from an ecological and health perspective. These products contain numerous chemicals that can harm the sensitive skin of our babies and have long-term effects on their health and development. These range from skin irritations to more serious issues like reproductive disorders.

The Environmental Impact of Disposable Diapers:

Throughout their entire life cycle, disposable diapers cause considerable environmental damage. They contribute to enormous waste production and have negative effects on our environment through the materials used and production processes. Even eco-friendly disposable diapers cannot be considered a fully environmentally friendly alternative, although they are a step in the right direction.

The Advantages of Cloth Diapers:

In contrast, cloth diapers offer an effective and sustainable solution. They not only significantly reduce waste but also avoid the intensive use of plastics and harmful chemicals. By using sustainable materials like organic cotton and recycled polyester, as well as their reusability, cloth diapers help conserve natural resources.

Sustainability in the Washing Process:

Even washing and drying are more environmentally friendly with cloth diapers. Modern washing machines and conscious washing practices can minimize water and energy consumption. The ability to wash cloth diapers at lower temperatures and air dry them further reduces the ecological footprint.

Health Benefits:

Cloth diapers also offer health benefits for our children. They are gentle on the skin and reduce the risk of skin irritations and allergic reactions. Their breathability and prevention of overheating contribute to better wearing comfort and healthier development for children.

It's clear that cloth diapers are an environmentally conscious and healthy choice for parents who want the best for their children and planet Earth. They are a sensible alternative that helps us reduce our ecological footprint while protecting our children's health. While switching to cloth diapers may require an adjustment initially, the long-term benefits for our environment and health are undeniable. They are an important step towards a more eco-friendly and healthier future for our children and our planet.

Judes parents are also convinced of how easy sustainable diapering can be:

"I really enjoy diapering my now 3-month-old child with Judes. They hold well, are easy to handle. You can save so much waste, and they are also pretty!"
(Pia Haid)

"Judes are super easy to handle. Both putting on the diapers and washing and drying them is totally uncomplicated. Judes have never leaked for us. Also, the diaper package is not so huge and almost comparable to disposable diapers. Additionally, you save an incredible amount of waste and time. And the best part, the designs are truly beautiful"
(Anonymous)

Judes make the transition particularly easy for you. The two-part system is put on just like a disposable diaper and yet makes an enormous difference for your child and our environment.