Finding the right newborn diaper starts with deciding between the three common types of diapers: disposable diapers, cloth diapers, and hybrid diapers. Each one has its pros and cons, and the best option is the one that works best for both you and your baby.

In this quick guide, we’re breaking down the different kinds to help you understand the differences and make the most sensible choice!

Disposable Diapers

Disposable diapers are primarily made up of an absorbent pad and non-woven fabric sheets, which allows them to soak up liquid and residue very efficiently. These diapers are very sanitary and can lower the risk of irritation, which is why a lot of parents (and babies!) love them.

As their name suggests, disposable diapers are meant for one-time use. Once they’ve been soiled, you can just remove and throw them away, making them very convenient–especially for parents who are always on the go.

Pros and Cons of Disposable Diapers

Convenience is the number one pro of disposable diapers. Because they’re meant to just be disposed of after use, they save parents time and energy from having to clean and wash them after every change (as they would with reusable diapers). This makes them great for quick changes. They’re also compact, so they’re easy to carry around.

Disposable diapers are also potentially more sanitary and safer to use on your baby. For example, Coterie’s The Diaper offers up to 70% more liquid capacity and four-times-faster absorbency than other brands.

This effectively keeps your baby dry, preventing the risk of rashes, which often happen when your child’s bottom is exposed to moisture for a long time. The Diaper is also made with more sustainable soft-as-cashmere, apparel-grade materials for softness and breathability!

The two biggest cons of disposable diapers are cost and waste. Babies go through up to ten diapers a dayOpens in a new tab., and that adds up quickly. Nowadays, you can get an eco-friendly diaper subscription, like Coterie’s auto-renew plan, that is more cost-effective and sustainable.

The cost of a diaper subscription varies, depending on the brand and the product. You can typically customize your plan, changing the frequency of delivery or the size of the diapers as needed as your kid grows.

Cloth Diapers

Cloth diapers are a reusable type of diaper made from fabric, synthetic fibers, and plastics (e.g. a combination of cotton and a waterproof layer of polyurethane laminate). They’re generally more environmentally friendly because they can be washed and used again.

Pros and Cons of Cloth Diapers

Cloth diapers are an eco-friendly choice because they don’t end up in landfills. They’re also more cost-effective (even if the upfront expense is higher). If you take care of your reusable diapers properly, you can even use them for a future baby or resell them at a good price!

That said, cloth diapers take more work to use. You have to frequently wash them–you don’t have the convenient option of just throwing them out when your baby has a blowout! If you’re out and can’t clean your child’s cloth diapers right away, you’re going to have to carry around dirty diapers until you get home.

Hybrid Diapers

Hybrid diapers are a cross between disposable and cloth diapers–they can be used as either kind. They’re made with a reusable outer cover and disposable inserts. When they get soiled, you can simply throw away the inserts and reuse the main cloth diaper.

Pros and Cons of Hybrid Diapers

With hybrid diapers, you get the best of both worlds. Just like disposable diapers, they’re effective, convenient, and easy to use. And similar to cloth diapers, they’re gentle and versatile. However, hybrid diapers are expensive, and they’ll still generate a lot of waste from the use of inserts.

Choosing Between Types of Diaper Options

Choosing between disposable, cloth, and hybrid diapers is the start of your diapering journey. To make the right choice, it’s important to consider your baby’s needs and your own preferences. Coterie’s The Diaper is fast-wicking, absorbent, and made with sustainable ingredients, making it a great disposable diaper option that can keep your baby comfy and clean every day. Get them on The Coterie website today!