Introduction

Newborn babies need the utmost attention. They are not aware of when or where to pass motion. So, parents use diapers because they are easy and convenient. Diapers became popular in the 1960s. Disposable diapers became a boon to parents because it minimises the stress and struggle of cleaning up their babies.

Why Do Parents Choose Disposable Diapers?

Parents think that disposable diapers have many advantages associated with them. It can be used one time only, so there is no need for the cleaning process. Synthetic diapers can be used and disposed of after use. It is a quick and convenient process for working parents. The diapers used nowadays can absorb moisture from the skin of babies. It keeps them dry, and hence parents have opted for disposable diapers.

What Are The Disadvantages Associated With It?

Disposable diapers prove harmful to both the babies and the environment. A few of the disadvantages that are associated with disposable diapers are mentioned below:

1. Disposable diapers are costly. Since parents have to use at least three diapers daily for their babies, it is expensive. 

2. It causes more irritation to the skin. As babies have to use it for more than three hours, sometimes it leads to skin rashes because of their sensitive skin.

3. It leads to more waste. Disposable diapers cannot be recycled, and they don’t degrade easily. It takes many years to compost in a landfill, which affects the environment.

4. Disposable diapers are made up of plastics and toxic materials. The harmful substances include dioxins, synthetic dyes, toluene, petroleum etc. They are the typical allergens. The gases produced due to volatile substances are harmful to babies.

5. The chemicals from the diapers can leak into the environment. They might be toxic to aquatic life and also to trees.

Effects Of Disposable Diapers On The Environment

Disposable diapers have a significant impact on the environment. The chemicals and the materials used to manufacture it are not suitable for the environment. It takes approximately 400-500 years to decompose completely and interferes with life in the ecosystems. Tributyltin, a chemical used in diapers, can be ingested by fish and enter the food chain. 

Alternative Of The Synthetic Disposable Diapers

The use of alternatives is better for babies and our planet. The two main alternatives used instead of synthetic diapers are as follows:

a. Reusable cloth diapers -  They are safe and have high durability. The fabrics used are suitable for sensitive baby skin. They are cheaper and eco-friendly.

b. Biodegradable disposable diapers – Instead of chemicals, some companies use plant-based alternatives. This will prevent babies and the environment from getting exposed to harmful chemicals. Once disposed of, they also degrade easily.

Conclusion

Though disposable diapers are necessary, we cannot ignore the negative impact on babies. We should always opt for its alternative for sustainable living and reduce the waste to the extent that will lessen its effects. 

FAQs

1. Does disposable diapers cause cancer?

Ans. The chemicals such as dioxin used in its preparation are carcinogenic. When a person comes in contact with or inhales it, it may sometimes lead to cancer.

2. What chemicals are used in synthetic diapers?

Ans. Volatile chemicals such as toluene, xylene, dioxins, petroleum compounds etc., are used in disposable diapers.

3. What can we use instead of disposable diapers?

Ans. We could use cloth diapers or biodegradable diapers, which are eco-friendly and safe for babies.

4. What are the impacts of disposable diapers on babies?

Ans. They irritate the skin and cause rashes on their skin. The volatile chemicals from the diapers sometimes lead to asthma in babies.

5. How are cloth diapers more useful than disposable ones?

Ans. The cloth diapers can be reused and recycled. They do not cause any side effects to babies or affect the environment, as they degrade easily.