Diapers are non-negotiable when it comes to your baby. Whether it’s your first, second or third child, it can be quite challenging to choose the perfect diaper for your little one. There are so many options out there these days. You can even opt for reusable cloth diapers, which we also have an article about.
For the sake of convenience though, many parents go for disposable ones. Unfortunately, there are lots of products out there that contain toxic or harmful chemicals – which is the last thing you want your child to be in constant contact with. Thankfully, there are many organic diaper choices for parents who want the convenience of a disposable diaper without the risk of exposing their baby to toxic ingredients.
- Important Factors to Consider When Buying Organic Diapers
- Top 10 Best Organic Diapers 2023
- 1. Best Overall Organic Diaper: Huggies Special Delivery Hypoallergenic Diapers
- 2. Pampers Pure Protection Diapers
- 3. The Honest Company Club Box Diapers
- 4. Best Premium Organic Diaper: Andy Pandy Biodegradable Bamboo Diapers
- 5. Best Budget Organic Diapers: Luvs Ultra Leakguards
- 6. Mama Bear Best Fit Diapers
- 7. Mama Bear Gentle Touch Diapers
- 8. Bambo Nature Eco-Friendly Baby Diapers
- 9. Cuties Baby Diapers
- 10. Earth’s Best TenderCare Diapers
- Guide to Buying the Best Organic Diaper
- Organic Diapers FAQ
- Why Should I Get Organic Diapers?
- Is the Gel in Diapers Toxic?
- Which Diapers Are Chemical Free?
- Which Organic Diapers Are Eco-Friendly?
- What Brand of Diapers Do Hospitals Use?
- Are There Any Biodegradable Diapers?
- Will My Baby Be Completely Safe From Irritations and Diaper Rash?
- When Should I Change my Baby’s Diapers?
- Final Thoughts
Important Factors to Consider When Buying Organic Diapers
The term “organic diaper” should not be taken at face value. Some diaper choices are definitely eco-friendly and/or made with natural ingredients like cotton that will biodegrade more easily than normal diapers. However, organic diapers are not 100% organic. Even the best standard diapers are made with synthetic materials and harsh ingredients that may be harmful when in contact with your baby’s sensitive skin. Compared to that, disposable organic diapers are not only gentler and safer for your baby’s skin, but they are also a more eco-friendly choice.
General Guidelines for Purchasing Organic Diapers
A good disposable organic diaper won’t have any harmful effects on most babies. They will also reduce the use of, or refrain from, using ingredients that could potentially pose any health or environmental risks. So instead of ingredients like bleached latex or chlorine, they will instead use ingredients like soft bamboo and natural dyes in their diapers.
Ingredients to Look for in Organic Diapers
Bamboo
Bamboo fibers are one of the main materials used in most organic diapers, as they are extremely eco-friendly, sustainable and durable. They also grow quickly and don’t need harmful chemicals to survive when farmed. Bamboo feels soft on the skin, is naturally hypoallergenic and very absorbent. All-in-all, it’s an excellent material for sensitive baby skin!
Natural Ink, Dye and Adhesives
Companies can easily sneak harmful chemicals into diapers through the inks, dyes and or adhesives they use. One major thing to look out for in your organic diaper is the label “TCF” (Totally Chlorine Free) as any chlorine ingredients in a diaper can be harsh when in close contact with skin. It is also helpful to make sure that your organic diapers are free from fragrances, perfumes, added lotions or latex, especially if your baby’s skin is particularly sensitive.
If you think organic diapers are the choice for you, then here are the top ten that are out there on the market today. For more information, we cover the benefits of organic diapers, and how they compare with alternatives, in our full guide after the list.
Top 10 Best Organic Diapers 2023
1. Best Overall Organic Diaper: Huggies Special Delivery Hypoallergenic Diapers
Editor’s Rating:
General Feel
The outer layer is soft in feel and extremely breathable and gentle on sensitive skin. This will also ensure good airflow that will keep your child’s skin dry and less prone to diaper rash.
Leaks and Spills
The Leak-Lock system in these diapers works for up to 12 hours and has a wetness indicator that changes color when your baby’s diaper is wet. This feature is great because it signals the exact moment when it’s time for a diaper change. However, they can be prone to leaking if you do not change the diapers on time. There is a panel feature in the back of the diapers to help prevent the dreaded “poo explosion.”
Printed Design
You’ll also appreciate not having to look at the same character all day long with each change: these diapers are designed with a variety of adorable original prints.
Organic Features
Huggies Special Delivery diapers are dermatologist tested and proven to be hypoallergenic. That’s because they’re made with plant-based materials like sugar cane and fluff pulp. They are fragrance-free, paraben-free, lotion-free and free of elemental chlorine bleach. However, despite these organic features, these diapers are not biodegradable.
Available Sizes
You can buy Huggies Special Delivery Diapers for newborns, and they also range from sizes 1 to 6. They will fit newborn babies up to 10 lbs and babies from 14 lbs up to 35+ lbs.
Pros
- 12-hour Leak-Lock system with wetness indicator
- Soft and breathable outer layer that’s gentle on sensitive skin
- Dermatologist tested and hypoallergenic proven
Cons
- Can be prone to leaking
2. Pampers Pure Protection Diapers
Editor’s Rating:
General Feel
The soft feel from these diaper’s plant-based materials help keep your baby’s skin free of irritation and rashes. However, if your baby has particularly sensitive skin, you may still find that they experience diaper rash. In this case, you may want to consider another brand.
Leaks and Spills
The fit of these diapers helps to keep any diaper explosions from happening. You can also count on up to 12 hours of leak protection with Pampers Pure Protection diapers. Couple that with a wetness indicator, and you can be sure that your baby stays comfortable and dry throughout the day.
Organic Features
Pampers Pure Protection diapers are free of fragrances, parabens and lotions. They are also made without chlorine bleaching and are free of all 26 EU-mandated allergens. Soft plant-based fibers, cotton, sustainably sourced fluff/wood pulp and other eco-conscious materials are used to make them gentle on your baby’s skin and hypoallergenic. If that’s not enough, Pampers also uses 100% certified renewable electricity to produce these diapers.
Available Sizes
You can purchase Pampers Pure Protection diapers in sizes 1-6. The recommended weight range is 8-14 pounds.
Pros
- Plant-based materials keep your baby’s skin from irritations and rashes
- Free of parabens, lotions, fragrances and all 26 EU allergens
- Produced with 100% renewable electricity
Cons
- Not ideal for babies with extremely sensitive skin
3. The Honest Company Club Box Diapers
Editor’s Rating:
General Feel
You can count on a box filled with super soft and gentle disposable diapers. Because the liner is made from sodium polyacrylate, it is extremely gentle and quickly wicks moisture away, keeping your baby dry and happy. The side panels and legs are made with a natural polymer spandex, ensuring that they are soft and stretchy with a comfortable waistband.
The only issue you may run into with these diapers is the inks used on them. If your baby has particularly sensitive skin, please be sure to test these out before buying them in bulk to ensure they are not sensitive to the ink.
Leaks and Spills
Honest Company diapers are designed with a multilayer technology that can lock away moisture effectively. They can hold up to 17 times its weight in fluid, which provides great leakage protection for your baby. This means that the diaper wetness won’t reach up to the outer surface of the diapers like many other brands tend to do.
Even though these diapers don’t have color-changing stripes on them to signal how wet the diapers are, you can be sure that there will be no leaks, whether your baby is on the move or asleep in their crib. They also don’t smell as bad as other brands do when they get wet. However, they may not stand up as strongly to heavier bowel movements.
Printed Design
Each 80-pack comes in three adorable patterns: Pandas and Safari, Rose Blossom and Sliced Fruit and Teal Tribal and Space Travel.
Organic Features
These diapers are dermatologist tested and made with a base core of sustainably harvested fluff pulp and other plant-derived materials, making them hypoallergenic. They contain no latex, fragrances or lotions, and they are free from chlorine processing. If that isn’t enough, they are also cruelty-free.
Available Sizes
You can purchase these diapers in a size range of 1-6. There is even a chart on the product page you can reference to find the right size for your baby based on their weight. It is important to note that these diapers run on the smaller side. Be sure to test out two different sizes if your child is on the smaller or larger end of the weight range for the diapers you’re considering purchasing.
Pros
- Extremely gentle on the skin with excellent moisture-wicking capabilities
- Holds up to 17 times its weight in fluid
- Available in three different patterns
- Doesn’t retain a strong bad smell when wet
Cons
- May not stand up to larger bowel movements
- Sizes may run small
Editor’s Rating:
General Feel
These disposable bamboo diapers are super soft, hypoallergenic, antibacterial and comfortable against your baby’s skin. The hypoallergenic and antibacterial aspects of these diapers work to prevent irritation and chafing. Additionally, the plus or deluxe Andy Pandy diapers have an aloe liner that will keep your baby’s skin hydrated and itch-free.
The breathable back sheet is made of 100% perforated bamboo fiber, and the flexible side panels mean they will fit your baby better and be comfortable for even the most active babies. You won’t have to spend as much money purchasing creams and ointments to keep your baby’s skin feeling and looking good.
Leaks and Spills
Andy Pandy diapers have moisture-wicking and thermal regulating bamboo material that keeps your baby’s skin from developing irritations and rashes. They also don’t have that extreme smell that lingers like on the nose like other brands. These diapers can stand up well to leaks and blowouts with their 3-D form-fitting design and built-in leakage barrier.
However, they do not last as long as other brands. There is a wetness indicator line that will turn bluish-green when it’s time to change into a new diaper. They can handle moisture for up to 6 hours during the day and possibly up to 10 hours overnight. This may mean that you may have to change your baby’s diaper more often.
Printed Design
These diapers come in a plain white design with a yellow wetness indicator stripe that turns blue-ish green when it’s time to change the diaper.
Organic Features
Andy Pandy diapers are eco-friendly and made with 100% non-woven bamboo fiber that effectively regulates temperature, wicks away moisture easily and keeps your baby’s skin dry and comfortable in hot or cold weather. No harmful chemicals, pesticides or fertilizers are used to treat the bamboo, ensuring that they are hypoallergenic and antibacterial. Andy Pandy Diapers are made with TCF (Totally Chlorine Free) fluff pulp and uses a light mist of aloe on the inner layer of the diapers to provide nourishment to your baby’s skin.
Available Sizes
You can purchase Andy Pandy diapers in five different sizes: Small (94 pack), Medium (80 pack), Large (70 pack), X-Large (62 pack) and Newborn (50 pack). If you are unsure about what size is right for your baby, there is a sizing chart provided on the product page based on your child’s weight. Don’t worry if you’re still unsure when referencing the size chart: you can request a sample diaper to be sure that you choose the right fit for your baby.
Extras
The Andy Pandy company sponsors St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. When you purchase their diapers, you are also contributing to the hospital. Not only that, but if you are not happy with your purchase, you will be provided with a full money back refund, no questions asked.
Pros
- Aloe liner keeps your baby’s skin hydrated and free of itchiness
- Comfortable to wear in hot or cold temperatures with thermal regulating bamboo
- Stands up well to leaks and blowouts
- Can have a sample diaper sent to you to ensure you choose the right fit
- Full money back refund if you’re not satisfied
Cons
- Moisture-wicking feature does not last as long as other brands (up to 6 hours)
5. Best Budget Organic Diapers: Luvs Ultra Leakguards
Editor’s Rating:
General Feel
Luvs Ultra Leakguard diapers are wonderfully soft and comfortable on your baby’s skin. They are designed with larger, re-fastenable tabs to ensure a secure fit. Not only that, but they are also less bulky than other brands of pampers. You can count on your baby being safer from developing rashes or cuts when wearing these.
Leaks and Spills
These diapers are designed with “Nightlock Technology” that can lock away wetness for up to 12 hours during the day and overnight. No need to worry about having to change your baby in the middle of the night. They can absorb 20 times its weight in fluid with its triple leakguard feature.
There is a wetness indicator on them that will turn blue when you need to change your baby’s diaper. However, even without the wetness indicator, it will be easy to tell when these diapers need changing as they blow up like a balloon to signal that they are full.
Printed Design
There are cute animal designs of monkeys, pandas or giraffes on the Luvs Ultra Leakguard diapers.
Organic Features
Luvs Ultra Leakguard diapers are made with petrolatum, stearyl alcohol and aloe barbadensis leaf extract. The ingredients used to make these diapers have a strong smell, which may be too much for some people. Additionally, if you notice any gel-like material on your baby’s skin when wearing these diapers, do not worry. This comes from the diaper’s padding and can be easily removed by wiping your baby down with a soft, dry cloth.
Available Sizes
Sizes range from 1-6. The weight recommendation ranges from 8 to 14 pounds. There is a size chart provided on the product page for you to reference to find the right size for your baby based on their weight. The large, re-fastenable tabs also ensure a secure fit for your baby.
Extras
If you are not happy with your purchase, Luvs will refund you in full via a prepaid card. All you need to do is send the original receipt and UPC to the company within 45 days of purchasing your diapers. You are limited to one refund per household or name. There is an expiration date printed on the box, but please be aware that this is for the rewards program, not for the product.
Pros
- Have larger, re-fastenable tabs for a more secure fit
- Nightlock technology will lock away wetness for up to 12 hours
- Can hold 20 times its weight in fluids
- Refund is provided if you are not happy with the diapers
Cons
- Gel-like material may leak out from the diapers onto your baby’s skin
6. Mama Bear Best Fit Diapers
Editor’s Rating:
General Feel
Although they are stiffer in feel, Mama Bear diapers are really soft and gentle on your baby’s skin. The forming elastic waist and leg bands stretch in just the right way to secure the diapers to your baby without being uncomfortable to wear.
Because of the excellent absorbency and chemical-free makeup of these diapers, you can be sure that even the most sensitive baby skin will be free of rashes and irritations. The blue dye printed on the diapers may rub off on your baby’s skin if you use creams during diaper changes.
Leaks and Spills
The stretchy sides and high-stretch, pocketed-back waistband secures the diaper’s fit to your baby and provides up to 12 hours of leak protection. The quilted liner draws wetness away from your baby’s skin. This makes them perfect for day and overnight wear. The flexible leg cuffs and snug-but-moveable waistband means that you will avoid the dreaded blowout.
Don’t be put off by the gel and strange-looking absorbent beads inside of the diaper. These are hypoallergenic, plant-based gels that some brands feature in their diaper design. There is a wetness indicator that shows up on the diapers when it’s time to change. A yellow stripe means that they are dry while a blue stripe means they are wet.
Printed Design
These diapers come in two different prints. One of those prints is a plain white that looks clean and matches well with virtually anything your baby wears.
Organic Features
Mama Bear diapers are hypoallergenic and free of fragrances, elemental chlorine and rubber latex. However, it is important to note that though elemental chlorine is not used to produce these diapers, they are not completely free of chlorine. Though they do not quickly biodegrade and they cannot be quickly composted, they are one of the “cleanest” regular brands of diapers on the market.
Available Sizes
Sizes range from Newborn to 6. Four packs of thirty-one diapers come in a box. There is a size chart on the product page for you to find the right size for your baby based on their weight. The chart even provides an average number of diapers your child may go through depending on their size so that you can make the most economical purchase.
The ideal weight for these diapers range from 8 to 35+ pounds, and the Newborn size can fit a baby that weighs up to 10 pounds. They do run a bit small, so it is recommended that you try a size up just in case. They also do not have a size indicator on the diapers, so be sure to organize your diapers clearly to avoid using the wrong ones when it’s time for a diaper change.
Extras
If you are not happy with your purchase, the Mama Bear diaper company will refund your purchase in full without the need to return the product. Also, if you happen to subscribe to the automatic delivery system with Mama Bear, you can save 15% on your purchase. Even more, if you have the Amazon store card, you will save another 5% on your purchase!
Pros
- Up to 12 hours of protection from leaks
- Flexible leg cuffs and waistband prevents blowouts
- Size chart provides an average number of diapers you’ll use in a day
- Full refund, no questions asked if you’re not satisfied with the product
Cons
- Blue dye may rub off on your baby’s skin if you regularly use creams
- Sizes run on the small side
7. Mama Bear Gentle Touch Diapers
Editor’s Rating:
General Feel
The outer cover of Mama Bear Gentle Touch diapers helps to keep your baby’s skin dry and healthy. The design is thin and flexible with soft, stretchy sides for a secure fit that will move effectively with active babies. Despite feeling plasticky on the outside, they maintain a soft, comfortable feel on the inside. Like other brands, they will hang low and clump when they are wet. If you have a child that has extremely sensitive skin, these diapers may not be the right choice for you as they can cause some minor irritations.
Leaks and Spills
These diapers are designed with excellent leakage protection both day and night. There is a wetness indicator that shows up on the diapers when it’s time to change them out. You will know when it’s time for a change when the yellow line turns blue. The inner lining contains safe, absorbent particles that will turn into a gel-like material when they get wet. Don’t worry if this gel gets on your baby’s skin; just remove it with a baby wipe or damp cloth.
Printed Design
Each pack of Mama Bear Gentle Touch diapers has a combination of star and polka dot designs at the top of the front of the diaper with the Mama Bear logo on the waistband. Most of the diaper is plain white.
Organic Features
These diapers are hypoallergenic and dermatologist tested. They are also free from chlorine bleaching, perfumes, parabens and phthalates. If that’s not enough, Mama Bear Gentle Touch diapers are also cruelty-free (meaning that they are never tested on animals), and they are produced in a zero waste to landfill facility.
Available Sizes
Sizes range from Newborn to 7. There is a size chart provided on the product page to help you figure out the perfect size for your child. Ideal weights range from 8 pounds up to 41+ pounds, and the Newborn size can fit babies that weigh up to 10 pounds. There is also an umbilical cord cut-out designed into the Newborn size that will help protect your baby’s belly button.
Extras
If you are not satisfied with your diapers for any reason, you can receive a full refund within a year of purchase. Just call their customer service number (1-877-485-0385) to do so.
Pros
- Thin and flexible design is soft in feel and moves easily with your baby
- Inner lining has safe and absorbent particles for great leakage protection
- Umbilical cord cut-out design protects your baby’s belly button
- Can receive a full refund within a year of purchasing their diapers
Cons
- Gel inlining may leak onto your baby
- May irritate extremely sensitive skin
8. Bambo Nature Eco-Friendly Baby Diapers
Editor’s Rating:
General Feel
Bambo Nature Eco-Friendly diapers are ultra-plush in feel because they are made with thick and soft bamboo fibers. They are also extremely breathable and designed to support excellent airflow that will keep your baby dry and comfortable. This means that you won’t have to worry as much about rashes. The elastic ruffles are soft and stretchy which ensures a snug and comfortable fit for your baby. This means less chafing and marks left on your baby’s skin.
Leaks and Spills
The three-layer design on the interior of these diapers makes them highly absorbent which works well for both day and night. This moisture-wicking capability also helps protect your baby from diaper rashes. One diaper can easily absorb 2-3 large pees. The snug and comfortable fit and resealable Velcro tabs also ensure that there will be less leaks and blowouts during the day. However, they may not stand up well to particularly large bowel movements.
Organic Features
These diapers are manufactured with sustainable processes and are free of harmful chemicals, dyes and perfumes. Additionally, they are certified to be free of all known allergens or substances that are classified as locally irritating, sensitizing, carcinogenic or mutagenic. This greatly minimizes the risk of allergies and diaper rashes.
Please be aware that they are not biodegradable though, but they can be composted if you take them to a special facility. If you’re a bit skeptical, feel free to visit the Abena/Bambo website for more information: they are extremely transparent about their practices!
Available Sizes
You can purchase these diapers in sizes 1 to 6. Though size one can be used for newborns, please be aware that they run big. Ideal weights range from 4 to 66 pounds. There is a size chart available on the product page to choose the right diaper for your baby. With these diapers, you may need to attach the tabs as far as they can go to the front, center panel of the diaper to ensure that they fit tight enough if you have a baby that is leaner.
Pros
- Extremely breathable with excellent airflow
- Snug fit and Velcro tabs prevents from leaks and blowouts
- Certified to be free of all known allergens
- Extremely transparent with their practices
Cons
- Sizes run a big compared to other brands
9. Cuties Baby Diapers
Editor’s Rating:
General Feel
Cuties Baby Diapers are designed with stretchable side panels that can easily move with your baby’s body while maintaining a snug fit. This will ensure that the ultra-absorbent core effectively locks in wetness and protects your baby from leaks in the day and night. The diapers are also super soft and feel, ensuring that your baby’s sensitive skin is comfortable. Unlike other brands, these diapers don’t have the gel in the interior that helps draw moisture away from your baby’s skin, but they do work just as effectively. If you have a child with particularly sensitive skin, these diapers may still cause slight irritations.
Leaks and Spills
The core of these diapers lock in moisture effectively despite not having the gel-like substance in its interior that other brands do. You can be confident with Cuties Baby Diapers with its 12-hour leakage protection, even during overnight wears. Cuties diapers are also free of any strong smells, which may be ideal for people with sensitive noses.
Organic Features
These diapers are made with cottony soft materials that are free of latex, fragrance, dyes and chlorine. The inner liner is hypoallergenic and enriched with aloe, natural botanicals and vitamin E which will keep your baby’s skin hydrated.
Ingredients in these diapers include elemental chlorine-free wood fluff pulp, sodium polyacrylate in the absorbent pad and polyethylene/polypropylene in the core wrap, outer liners, leg cuff, moisture barrier and fastening system. A polymer-based elastic film is also used in the fastening system, waistband and leg elastics.
Available Sizes
Sizes range from 2-6. You can also buy these diapers for newborns.
Extras
Customer service is ready and available to answer your questions and hear any comments you have about their diapers. You can call them toll-free (1-800-262-0042) anytime between 10am-4pm EST.
Pros
- Stretchable side panels protect from leaks and move easily with your baby
- Lock in moisture for up to 12 hours
- Hypoallergenic interior enriched with aloe, vitamin E and natural botanicals
Cons
- May still cause skin irritations for particularly sensitive skin
10. Earth’s Best TenderCare Diapers
Editor’s Rating:
General Feel
Earth’s Best diapers have stretchy panels that help them fit securely on your baby. The accompanying moisture barrier cuff and breathable sides also provide further protection from leaks while also keeping your baby comfortable and dry. They are a little boxy in fit and are best for thicker, bigger babies. The chemical-free absorbency in these diapers will keep your baby safe from skin irritations and rashes.
Leaks and Spills
Though there is not a wetness indicator on these diapers, it is easy to tell when it’s time for a diaper change. You can poke through your baby’s clothes to get an idea of wetness or wait for your baby to tell you. The moisture barrier cuff and stretchy panels helps to prevent leaks and blowouts from happening. These diapers will give off a strong smell when your baby is wet.
Printed Design
These diapers come in plain white which is great for matching with anything your baby wears. There is an expiration date on the box, but this is for the rewards program, not for the diapers.
Organic Features
Earth’s Best TenderCare diapers are free of chlorine, latex, dye and fragrance, making them gentler on sensitive baby skin. Though they may smell more when they get wet and need changing, these diapers are virtually free from that awful chemical smell diapers can sometimes have.
Available Sizes
Sizes range from 1-6, and there is a newborn size available as well. However, not all sizes are always available on the product page, so check and purchase them as soon as you can if this is your go-to brand. They do run on the small side, so test out a size below what you would normally go for if you are unsure how these will fit your baby. Also be aware that there is no size indicator on the diaper, so be sure to organize your diapers to ensure there are no mix-ups when changing your baby’s diaper.
Pros
- Moisture-barrier cuffs and breathable sides keep your baby comfortable and dry
- Great for bigger, thicker babies
- Chlorine, latex, dye and fragrance-free
- No overwhelming chemical smell
Cons
- Run small in size
- May smell more strongly when wet
- No wetness indicator
Guide to Buying the Best Organic Diaper
Normal vs. Organic Diapers
It is important to note that the term “organic diaper” should not be taken at face value. Some diaper choices are definitely eco-friendly and/or made with natural ingredients like cotton. However, these diapers are not 100% organic. So the term “organic diaper” really means that they are safer and gentler on your baby and for the earth.
Normal diapers, on the other hand, are treated with chemical ingredients that can be harsh on a baby’s skin. Babies also go through thousands of diapers, so it is important to consider that normal diapers made with synthetic materials will sit in landfills for hundreds of years and will be unable to biodegrade as safely as ones made with organic materials.
What Makes a Good Organic Diaper?
A good disposable organic diaper will not have any known harmful effects on most babies. They will also steer clear or reduce the use of any ingredients that could potentially pose a health or environmental risk. So instead of ingredients like bleached latex or chlorine, they will use soft bamboo and natural dyes.
Ingredients to Look for in Organic Diapers
Bamboo
Bamboo fibers are one of the main materials used in most organic diapers. This is because bamboo is extremely eco-friendly, sustainable and durable. It grows quickly and does not need harmful chemicals to survive. In addition to this, bamboo feels soft on the skin, is naturally hypoallergenic and very absorbent. All very great components for sensitive baby skin! Consider purchasing Bambo Nature Eco-Friendly Baby Diapers if you want a diaper that contains bamboo fibers.
Natural Ink, Dye and Adhesives
You will also need to pay attention to the ingredients used to color and hold the diapers together. This is an easy way for companies to sneak in harmful chemicals into diapers that could otherwise be considered eco-friendly. One major thing to look out for in your organic diaper is the label “TCF” (Totally Chlorine Free). Your baby’s bottom will thank you. Also be on the lookout to make sure that your organic diapers are free from fragrances, perfumes, added lotions or latex.
Avoid Chlorines and Dioxins
Disposable diapers are commonly made with wood pulp that is treated with bleach. The process to do this creates a run-off chemical called dioxins which are highly toxic, able to accumulate in your body and can compromise your immune system. The World Health Organization has a comprehensive article that details the harmful effects of dioxins.
ECF vs. TCF Production
There are two types of ways that manufacturers produce pulp for their organic diapers, ECF and TCF.
Elemental Chlorine-Free Pulp (ECF)
You may find that companies will boast about the use of ECF pulp in the production of their diapers. Though this technically means that elemental chlorine is not used, it is important to note that the pulp is bleached with chlorine dioxide, a hazardous substance. Though dioxin byproducts are reduced with these production methods, there is no conclusive evidence that the presence of dioxins is completely eliminated.
Total Chlorine-Free Pulp (TCF)
TCF processing completely eliminates the use of chlorine or chlorine derivatives. Oxygen, peroxide or ozone-based bleaching systems are used to make the process safer overall. This is because they do not produce dioxins as a byproduct. Go for TCF over ECF as much as possible when choosing the best organic diaper for you. If TCF diapers are an important factor for you, consider purchasing Andy Pandy Biodegradable Bamboo Diapers.
How to Figure Out the Right Diaper Size for Your Baby
Many product pages will provide a guide that includes the appropriate age and weight for each diaper size, so don’t worry! It shouldn’t be too difficult to find the correct diaper size for your little one, whatever their age. If you’re still feeling uncertain about which size to choose, check out this link that has loads of information on how diaper sizes work, when to switch to the next diaper size and how different diaper brand sizes compare.
Organic Diapers FAQ
Now you have an overview of organic diapers, you probably still have some questions. We will answer the most common ones here:
Why Should I Get Organic Diapers?
There are many significant environmental impacts that disposable diapers pose. One shocking fact is that they can sit in landfills for up to 500 years! You can imagine the negative effects that can have on future generations. This is why so many people are considering more organic, eco-friendly options.
Since many organic diapers are made with bamboo, it may ease your mind to know that this material is 100% biodegradable in soil and does not cause pollution. They also gentle on sensitive baby skin. Though you may have to pay a bit more for organic diapers than normal disposable ones, you may sleep a bit better at night knowing that you are not only doing something good for the earth, but you are also using a material that is safer and gentler on your child.
Is the Gel in Diapers Toxic?
Even though the polymer gel used in most diapers is considered non-toxic and harmless to humans, some parents are still concerned about its effects on their kids. This is because these gels are usually derived from petroleum and the long-term effects are still yet to be discovered. For now though, after almost 40 years of using absorbent polymer gels in diapers, there have not yet been any negative effects.
Which Diapers Are Chemical Free?
In all honesty, there is no such thing as a chemical-free diaper. The better question to ask is whether your diapers are free of harmful chemicals like chlorine and chlorine byproducts. Unlike food, diapers do not have to list all of the ingredients they use to make them, so be sure to read the labels carefully, do your research and choose an organic diaper that has the most eco-friendly and safe composition of ingredients. Our list contains the best ones available right now, so you can be assured you’re getting a great organic diaper.
Which Organic Diapers Are Eco-Friendly?
There are many brands that will label themselves as organic, natural or green. When choosing diapers that are eco-friendly, make sure that they are free of dyes and chemicals like chlorine, fragrance and/or latex.
Also look out for diapers that are made with natural materials like bamboo or cotton as these will be more efficiently biodegradable than diapers made with synthetic materials.
Some great options for diapers that are free of harmful chemicals are Huggies Special Delivery Hypoallergenic Diapers and Mama Bear Best Fit Diapers.
What Brand of Diapers Do Hospitals Use?
Most hospitals will use Pampers Swaddlers or Huggies Little Snugglers. They are both popular brands that are widely used for newborns. You may even find yourself in a hospital that uses cloth diapers, though that is rare. If you want your baby to start from birth in organic diapers, you will need to bring your own and let the nursing staff know that you would prefer to use only those types of diapers on your child.
Are There Any Biodegradable Diapers?
How biodegradable diapers are depends entirely on the brand. You can count on organic diapers to be more biodegradable than standard disposable ones. Organic diapers that are compostable will be the best at breaking down. Bambo Nature Eco-Friendly Baby Diapers can be composted if this is important to you.
Will My Baby Be Completely Safe From Irritations and Diaper Rash?
Organic diapers won’t guarantee that your baby will be safe from diaper rash and skin irritations. There are some additional precautions you can take to protect your baby’s sensitive skin. You can use Sudocrem to help prevent or treat diaper rash; the zinc oxide in the cream is key. It is also important that you make sure to air dry your baby’s bottom before putting on a new diaper. If you need any more tips for how to prevent or treat diaper rash, This is a great article that covers this topic comprehensively.
When Should I Change my Baby’s Diapers?
You can’t always count on your baby letting you know when their diaper needs changing. If this is your first baby, don’t worry about having to know everything! Here are some suggestions on times when you might need to change your baby’s diaper:
- Right before or after each feeding
- Right before bedtime
- When your baby wakes up
- Before you go out with your baby
You may also want to purchase a diaper that has a wetness indicator to make it as easy as possible to figure out when to change your baby. If this is important to you, consider purchasing Pampers Pure Protection Diapers or Luvs Ultra Leakguards Baby Diapers.
Final Thoughts
It is natural for parents to want the best for their baby, and diapers will be a regular item in your baby’s life, and yours! They are in constant contact with your child’s skin, so you’ll want to make sure to buy the best diapers that will keep your baby clean, comfortable and safe. Organic diapers are a great choice for any parent who cares about the environment as much as they care about their child. Now that you know more about the best organic diapers out there for you, you’ll be able to find the perfect choice for you and your little one!