One of the first major decisions you'll have to make as a parent
is what kind of diapers you want to buy. Diapers are a major expense for new
parents as they'll literally spend thousands of dollars in the first year to
keep their baby's bottom clean. In general, what you decide on will depend on
your budget, lifestyle, and comfort level, but here are some factors to
consider:
Cloth
vs. Disposable: In truth, some families have strong feelings one way or the
other. Cloth diapers are typically less expensive in the long run and can be
used on multiple babies. However, they are messy and their use could increase
the risk of rash. Disposables have a protective gel that wicks moisture and
neutralizes the acidity of the urine. And yes, quick cleanup is a major
positive as well.
Will
You Being Using a Daycare Service? If so, Consumer
Reports suggests that you stick with disposables because most day care centers
require babies to be outfitted with newborn diapers that are
disposable. If you travel a lot with your baby, disposables are logistically
more convenient too.
Where
to Buy Your Diapers: Whether you decide to purchase cloth diapers or disposable
diapers, consider where you buy them. You can typically find disposable diapers
online that are cheaper than those you would find at the grocery store. For
families who are concerned about their budget, shopping online may be an easy
way to offset the costs of disposables.
