As a young family in Singapore, it can be overwhelming to choose the best diapering option for your little one. While disposable diapers may seem like the easiest and most convenient choice, they can also have a negative impact on the environment and your wallet. That’s why many parents are turning to cloth diapering as a sustainable and cost-effective alternative.

Here are five reasons why young families in Singapore should consider cloth diapering.

1. Cloth diapers are better for the environment

In Singapore, almost all non-recycled waste is incinerated so that the waste can be reduced by up to 90% to save on landfill space. Currently, there are more than 2,000 tonnes of ashes and non-incinerated waste which are received by Semakau Landfill everyday. As Singapore’s one and only landfill, if we continue at this current disposal rate, it is likely that Pulau Semakau would run out of space by 2035.

By using cloth diapers, you can significantly reduce your family’s contribution to our landfills, especially in a land-scarce country like Singapore.

Not only do cloth diapers create less waste, but they also use fewer resources to produce. The manufacturing process for disposable diapers requires a significant amount of water and energy, as well as the use of non-renewable resources like crude oil. By contrast, cloth diapers are reusable, which means they require fewer resources to produce and are more sustainable in the long run.

2. Cloth diapers can save you money

Otter Original Pocket Diaper and Girl’s Flutter Sleeve Dress, Inkuehdible prints by The Tiny Otter

Disposable diapers can be expensive, especially in Singapore where prices are often higher due to import costs. On average, a disposable diaper costs $0.30. Over the course of your child’s diapering years, you would probably need about 6 diaper changes per day. This works out to be around 6,500 diapers for the first 3 years and can add up to thousands of dollars. By contrast, cloth diapers are a one-time investment that can last through multiple children.

While the upfront cost of cloth diapers can be higher, they are more cost-effective in the long run. Depending on the type and brand of cloth diaper you choose, you can spend anywhere from $500 to $900 for a full stash that will last from birth to potty training. A set of 24 Otter Original Pocket diapers would cost you around $712 (after bundle discount). These are one-sized diapers which can fit a baby from 4-18kg.

Some families also choose to buy second-hand cloth diapers to save even more money.

3. Cloth diapers are gentler on your baby’s skin

Otter Original Pocket Diaper, Mama Shop print by The Tiny Otter

Disposable diapers often contain chemicals which can irritate your baby’s skin. These chemicals include fragrances, dyes, and absorbent gels. Some babies develop diaper rash or other skin irritations as a result of wearing disposable diapers.

Cloth diapers, on the other hand, have their inserts made from natural fibres like cotton, bamboo, and hemp. They are free from harmful chemicals and are gentle on your baby’s delicate skin. Cloth diapers are also more breathable than disposable diapers, which reduce the occurrence of diaper rash.

4. Cloth diapers help with potty training

Credits: charlesdeluvio / Unsplash

With cloth diapers, you can help your child to potty-train earlier! When using disposables, the stay-dry polymer core prevents them from feeling the wetness.

Cloth diapers allow them to feel the wetness on their skin the moment they pee, urging them to use the potty whenever they feel the need to relieve themselves. We have our Otter Pull-up Diaper which wears like an underwear and is perfect for a toddler during the potty training phase.

5. Cloth diapers can be stylish and fun

One of the most enjoyable aspects of cloth diapering is the wide variety of colors, patterns, and designs available. Parents can take #OTB (on-the-bum pictures). Here at The Tiny Otter, we take pride in working closely with our local designers to come up with prints that best represent the “essence” of living in Singapore.

In addition to being fun and stylish, cloth diapers can also be a great way to express your personal values and beliefs. By choosing cloth diapers, you’re making a conscious decision to reduce your family’s environmental impact and support sustainable practices.