Cloth diapering with a service just works

So it’s been a couple of months since my last post, the best laid plans for blogging were set aside when the girls arrived a month early :) They’re now almost 10 weeks and we’re settling into a nice routine of feedings, diaper changes & explore/ play. Prior to their arrival I posted an entry about using cloth diapers – I really wasn’t sure what I’d be getting into with juggling the diapers and two girls. 10 weeks later & I have no regrets.
We use a service, Comfy Cotton, and although we go through about 140 diapers a week, the cost alone makes it an attractive option at about $25/wk… with the cost of disposables we would have been averaging about $70/wk. The service picks up our soiled diapers weekly & delivers a fresh bunch – we have sealed pails (one upstairs, one downstairs) with carbon filters and there is nary an odor.
Outside of the convenience the best part is how clean the girls are – no diaper rash to be found on either of them, and they let us know immediately when they’ve soiled… will make potty training much easier when that time comes. They aren’t sealed into a plastic bag, they’re next to natural cotton washed without harsh chemicals.
Of course there’s also the reduced environmental impact, regardless of what the disposable manufacturers are doing to make the diapers more eco-friendly, the manufacturing and distribution process is still a big footprint and disposables don’t degrade quickly (if at all).
We do still have disposables on hand and in their diaper bag for when we head out, but overall choosing to use cloth has been the right choice. Not sure how things will work out once they’re on the move and crawling around, but Kev & I are going to give it our best shot to keep them using cloth.
Do you use cloth diapers? Do you use a service or launder at home? Would love to hear your thoughts!
[photo credit: Daniel Hoye via Flickr]
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Posted: April 7th, 2009 under sustainable living, toronto, urban living.
Comments
Comment from Mish
Time May 6, 2009 at 11:45 am
Did you try purchasing your own cloth diapers? I am about to give birth and think I will try this route first, but wanted to know if you tried it and it was just a big inconvenience?
Comment from tamera
Time May 6, 2009 at 12:52 pm
Hey Mish,
I didn’t, I figured having to deal with laundering the stinky diapers for 2 would not last with me for long… enough you’re seriously sleep deprived & hungry all the time, no need to have to do that much additional work in my view!
Comment from Mish
Time May 7, 2009 at 11:17 am
I figured so. I am thinking how much work it will be for 1! thanks.
Comment from Jacquelyn
Time August 18, 2009 at 1:18 pm
Very helpful – I think we’re going to go this route as well and I’d been wondering about the cost! Good post. Update more! Haha.
