By Rachel Hudson
Many manufacturers now claim to make non-toxic, organic diapers for the baby. However, some brands don’t always provide clear information. So what actually is an organic and non-toxic diaper and nappy, and how do you buy the right product for your baby?
The Best Organic and Non-Toxic Diapers for Your Baby
Of course the well-being of your baby is a priority! So you may have decided to avoid any toxic diaper or nappy brand. Plus, if you are concerned about our environment, so you may want to consider eco-friendly diapers made from organic materials.
But finding a diaper or nappy that is both organic and non-toxic can be an uphill task until you understand what “non-toxic” and “organic” strictly mean.
So, let’s dig in to find out what an organic and non toxic diaper or nappy really is.
An organic diaper or nappy for a baby is made from plant-based (read: natural), eco-friendly materials such as bamboo fibers. Bamboo is mostly preferred for diapers because it is strong, silky, absorbent, and sustainable.
Its fibers are also soft hypoallergenic, suiting it for sensitive skin. Bamboo is a fast-growing tree that needs no chemicals to thrive, so it is eco-friendly all the way. When a bamboo diaper or nappy is disposed of, it wholly biodegrades without polluting the soil.
That is what is expected of all organic products. Not all organic diapers or nappies are 100% biodegradable, but they are better than an average disposable diaper or nappy that can sit in a landfill for over 500 years. During these 500 years, the diaper releases toxic gasses, one of which is methane. These end up in our drinking water.
Organic diapers and nappies usually carry no chemicals that may harm your baby’s sensitive skin. But watch out: it is possible to find a diaper or nappy made primarily from organic, harmless materials still having harmful chemicals hidden in the dyes, inks, and adhesives used.
What Are The Best Organic Diapers and Nappies?
The best organic diaper or nappy for the baby should not contain more than 85% of certain chemicals and substances. If you want a diaper or nappy that is 100% eco-friendly, ensure it has none of these:
· Chlorine
· Latex
· Fragrance
· Lotion
· Phthalate
· Paraben
· Dye
· Tributyltin (TBT)
A material like latex can trigger allergic reactions in some babies with susceptible skins. Fragrance and lotion can cause asthma and hormonal complications. Chlorine, used to clean or bleach the nappies, is known to irritate the baby’s skin. You should avoid any organic diaper or nappy for a baby that is composed of any of these if you want a genuinely organic diaper or nappy.
A real organic diaper or nappy can be expensive, but it carries with it lots of benefits for your baby and the environment. Plus, they come in different designs and many parents love collecting different styles and patterns for their eco friendly babies. There is even a choice of the best swim diaper that your baby can wear while in water.
Which Are The Biodegradable Diapers and Nappies You Can Use?
The following are the top biodegradable nappies you can use if you want to show your love for the environment:
Compostable Diapers and Nappies
A compostable nappy breaks down fast; hence it is highly biodegradable. You use it once, and then have it composted.
Reusable Cloth Diapers and Nappies
These are the diapers and nappies you can use and reuse, thus delaying their time in the landfill. It would be best if you used reusable nappies when you are at home.
They consume a lot of water to clean, but they are eco-friendly when you finally dump them after long service life.
Eco-Friendly Disposable Diapers and Nappies
These are disposable yet eco-friendly nappies or diapers made from organic materials.
Non-Toxic Diapers and Nappies
Non-toxic diapers and nappies are free of harmful chemicals, as we have seen. Your baby’s skin is tender and thin, so toxic chemicals can easily and quickly filter through. These chemicals can interfere with their physical and mental development, depending on the severity.
A chemical such as Phthalate has been shown to cause not just asthma but can also alter your baby’s physical development.
What Is the Best Diaper or Nappy Rash Treatment?
The best diaper rash treatment is baby powder. However, you can also use a cream with petroleum jelly or zinc oxide. Always rub it on the baby’s dry bottom before you put on a clean nappy.
At the same time, ensure you choose certified organic diapers for diaper rash prevention so that your baby doesn’t suffer from diaper or nappy rash. At the same time, it helps to learn how to treat a diaper or nappy rash naturally.
If you’re thinking about making the switch don’t feel overwhelmed, start small and remember that every little bit counts! Research before deciding which diaper or nappy is genuinely non-toxic and organic. Some companies throw in misleading labels such as “natural” and “non-toxic” even on diapers that are not. In this age of online customer reviews, you should go through what customers say about a particular organic nappy for a baby before committing yourself to it.
You can also check for third-party certifications by independent consumer or environmental organizations. Stick to the organic nappy brands that have been approved as genuinely organic and non-toxic by the experts, not the manufacturers.
What are your thoughts on organic and non-toxic diapers? Are there genuinely non-toxic diapers in the market?
Author’s Bio: Rachel Hudson is a freelance content writer who writes extensively about lifestyle and parenting. Some time back, Rachel worked as a certified marriage counselor and fitness trainer. She is also the author of various health and scientific papers.
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