When it comes to diapering your little one, cloth diapers cost is a significant consideration for many parents.
Today, many parents are looking for ways of saving money when it comes to baby expenses, therefore, they begin looking and wondering if cloth diapers can ACTUALLY save money.
While disposable diapers have long been the go-to option, cloth diapering has gained popularity due to its potential cost savings.
In this article, we will delve into the economics of cloth diapering, providing price estimates of cloth diapers and materials, and comparing them to the cost of disposable diapers.
READ MORE: DIFFERENT TYPES OF CLOTH DIAPER INSERTS: COTTON, HEMP, BAMBOO, AND MICROFIBER
Cloth Diaper Cost and Price Estimates
Cloth diapers come in various styles and materials, each with its own price range.
Here are some price estimates to give you an idea of the investment required:
1. Prefold Diapers
Prefold diapers, which require folding and fastening, are the most affordable option. A pack of six prefold diapers can cost around $20, depending on the brand and quality. Prefolds are also paired with cover diapers, which are about $30 for a pack of 7 covers, which are reusable and don’t have to be washed with every change.
2. Pocket Diapers
Pocket diapers consist of a waterproof outer layer and a pocket for inserting absorbent inserts. These diapers typically range from $5 to $10 per diaper, depending on the brand and features.
Additional costs for inserts if you want extra absorbancy, which you can choose from cotton, hemp, microfiber, cotton/hemp blend, and bamboo. Typically, pocket diapers come with microfiber inserts, which typically do not offer enough absorbency for a baby past 6 months of age.
Unlike cover diapers, pocket diapers do need to be washed with every change.
READ MORE: Pocket Diapers vs Cover Diapers: Pros and Cons
3. Flat Diapers
Flats are either a square or rectangular-shaped sheet of fabric, typically cotton. Flats are folded to the preference of the parent and typically paired with an insert for extra absorbency. Flats can be as inexpensive as $5 per pack of 10. Flat are also paired with a cover diaper. Flat can be made of muslin blankets, old cotton T-Shirts, Flour Sack Towels.
4. Accessories
In addition to diapers, you may need accessories such as wet bags, inserts, liners, and fasteners. These can add an extra cost of around $50 to $100, depending on the quantity and brand.
READ MORE: Everything You Need to Know About Cloth Diapering a Newborn
Cloth Diapers vs Disposable Diapers
While the upfront cost of cloth diapers may seem higher than disposable diapers, it’s essential to consider the long-term savings. Let’s compare the costs of cloth diapers and disposable diapers over a two-year period:
Cloth Diapers
Assuming an average of 8-10 diaper changes per day, you may need around 24-30 cloth diapers. Considering the price estimates mentioned earlier, the total cost for cloth diapers and accessories would range from $400 to $800.
The cheapest way you can go about cloth diapers is to buy a pack of 7 of cloth diaper covers and Flour Sack Towels to use as inserts.
READ MORE: How to Use Cloth Diaper Covers in 5 Different Ways
This combo can cost about $80. Even then, you could use old cotton T-Shirts as inserts, and further reduce the cost and only invest in the cloth diaper covers, which are about $30 for a pack of 7 to pair with the old cotton T-Shirts.
It’s worth noting that cloth diapers can be reused for subsequent children, further increasing your savings. Additionally, cloth diapers have a higher resale value compared to disposable diapers, allowing you to recoup some of your initial investment.
Disposable Diapers
The cost of disposable diapers varies depending on brand, size, and quantity. On average, you can expect to spend around $70 to $80 per month, totaling approximately $1,680 to $1,920 per year. Over two years, this amounts to $3,360 to $3,840.
By choosing cloth diapers, you could potentially save anywhere from $2,560 to $3,440 over a two-year period compared to disposable diapers.
OVERALL COMPARISON – Cloth Diapers vs Disposable Diapers
| Cloth Diapers | Disposable Diapers | |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Cost (Month #1) | $100-$500 USD | $80 USD |
| Cost Per Month | $10-15 USD (Only the cost of the added water use) | $80 USD |
| Cost Per Year | $220-$700 (Only the cost of water use and initial cost) | $1,700 USD |
| Number of Diapers Needed Per Month | 24-30 cloth diapers (no need to repurchase after the first month) | ~200 |
| Number of Diapers Needed Per Year | 24-30 cloth diapers (no need to repurchase after the first month) | ~2,800 |
Can I Save Money With Cloth Diapers? Actual Cloth Diapers Cost
Overall, cloth diapering offers a cost-effective alternative to disposable diapers. While the upfront investment may be higher, the long-term savings are significant.
With price estimates ranging from $400 to $800 for cloth diapers and accessories, compared to $3,360 to $3,840 for disposable diapers over a two-year period, cloth diapering can save you thousands of dollars.
Moreover, the ability to reuse cloth diapers and their higher resale value make them an economically wise choice. By opting for cloth diapers, you not only save money but also contribute to a more sustainable and eco-friendly diapering option for your little one.
Other Cloth Diapering Posts:
- How to Store Dirty Cloth Diapers + 6 Storage Ideas
- The Best Cloth Diaper Storage Ideas for Small Spaces
- Benefits of Line-Drying Cloth Diapers
- Everything You Need to Know About Cloth Diapering a Newborn
Other Parenting Posts:
- Nursing Cart Essentials
- Fixing Postpartum Hormone Imbalance After Childbirth & Breastfeeding
- Gifts for New Moms for Every Occasion
- Baby Registry Must Haves (Free Checklist Printable)
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