How to Choose the Best Non Toxic Diapers for Your Baby
Your infant’s skin is so sensitive and prone to irritation by the smallest of things. This is the reason diaper rash is so common among infants and small children.
As parents become more aware of how chemicals commonly added to diapers affect their infant’s skin, they have started turning to natural, non toxic diapers.
Whether you are looking to switch diapers due to your infant’s frequent outbreaks or you are expecting and want to start with non toxic diapers to avoid exposure to these chemicals, everything you need to know is outlined below.
Switching to an all natural disposable diaper or non toxic diapers will keep your baby healthier and less likely to break out into a rash. Here is everything you need to know about clean diapers.
Best Non Toxic Diapers
Here is a quick list of the top six non toxic disposable diapers that are safe for your baby:
Read below to learn more about each diaper to find the perfect fit for your little one! Organic cotton and organic cloth diapers are better options; however, this article features all natural disposable diaper brands I mention below.
What Chemicals Should You Avoid in Diapers?
Many diaper companies – as well as the majority of infant care products – claim to be “natural” or “organic,” but what does that mean?
Unfortunately, so many companies will claim to be natural when they still have harmful chemicals in their diapers. Here is a list of all the most toxic chemicals and harmful ingredients that are in traditional diapers.
To reap the benefits from natural, non-toxic diapers, and to protect your baby’s sensitive skin, you want to look for diapers that are free of the following chemicals:
Chlorine
Chlorine is used as a bleaching agent to whiten different materials in the diaper – liner, wood pulp, etc. The bleaching process can emit trace amounts of small particles called dioxins.
Using chlorine-free diapers decreases the chance that your baby is exposed to these harmful dioxins. Dioxins are known to be skin irritants – especially for newborns who have thin and delicate skin.
You may see some diaper companies that claim to be TCF or ECF. TCF stands for totally chlorine-free and ECF stands for elemental chlorine free.
With TCF, the diaper materials have not been treated or bleached during the manufacturing process. However, ECF has been bleached with chlorine dioxide instead of elemental chlorine, which is still harmful for your baby. Only choose diapers that are TCF!
Fragrances
Artificial fragrances are often added to diapers to help mask the smell of your infant’s bowel movements between diaper changes.
Some companies use strong fragrances that are made with harsh chemicals that can cause skin irritation and are linked to many different allergens.
Fragrances also can be huge hormone disruptors and endocrine disruptors. You don’t want that for your baby!
Phthalates
Phthalates are ingredients added to plastics to make them flexible and durable. They are used particularly in diapers to create a waterproof outside layer.
The issue with phthalates is when exposed to air or liquid, the phthalate chemicals can leak out of the product. New research is being done on infant exposure to phthalates and companies are starting to eliminate them from infant care products and toys because of their health effects.
Dyes or Inks
Dyes or inks are often used to create the designs or coloring on the diaper – outer layer, leg cuffs, and elastics, back elastics, as well as the wetness indicator on most diapers.
When these dyes and inks come into contact with your infant’s skin, it can sometimes cause a reaction or irritation – like a diaper rash or dermatitis.
Some brands – Honest and BAMBO – use water-based, natural dyes without heavy metals to create designs or wetness indicators on their diapers.
Parabens
Parabens are chemicals that prevent bacterial and microbial growth commonly added to personal care products – even processed foods. They are used in diapers as a preservative.
Parabens have been known to have toxic effects on infants. Most conventional diapers on the market – Huggies, Pampers, etc. – all use a natural preservative and are now paraben-free.
Lotions
Lotions are added to the top sheet of the diaper and are designed to transfer onto your infant’s skin as a barrier ointment.
Infants who have sensitive skin may have a reaction to these lotions added into the diaper, as they are often made with chemicals rather than natural ingredients.
Try to find the safest diapers that do not have any of these synthetic materials and nasty chemicals. You will see your child break out less in skin rashes and they won’t have any exposure to dioxins and other harmful chemicals.
Are Organic and Natural Diapers Worth It?
Yes, organic and non toxic diapers are absolutely worth it! There are so many sources to show how many of the toxic ingredients do harm your little ones.
Anytime to can remove even one harmful chemical in your baby products, you are keeping your little ones safe and secure.
Take a look at just some of the benefits of clean diapers below.
Benefits of Non-Toxic Diapers
The many benefits of using non toxic diapers are likely the reason you are researching and choosing a non-toxic diaper that works best for you and your little one.
Non toxic diapers are extremely beneficial for infants who have sensitive skin or allergies to certain chemicals – such as fragrances. They are especially great for newborns, as newborns have very delicate and thin skin.
Non toxic diapers not only provide benefits to your infant but also the environment. Here are some benefits of using non-toxic diapers:
- Reduce the risk of diaper rash and dermatitis
- Reduce the risk of allergic reactions
- Decrease your infant’s exposure to harmful, toxic chemicals
- Compostable
- Biodegradable
- Help avoid hormone and endocrine disruption
Now that you have an idea of what to look for in a non-toxic diaper and why you should choose non toxic diapers over conventional diapers, let’s dive into some of my favorite natural diapers.
Top Best Natural Diapers for Babies
Many diaper companies on the market offer non toxic diapers but there are some non-toxic diaper brands that will offer you a better diaper for your little one’s most sensitive skin. Below are some of the most popular non-toxic, natural diapers in no particular order.
1. BAMBO Nature
If you are not only concerned about your infant’s health, but also the health of the environment, then BAMBO Nature diapers may be a great choice for you.
BAMBO is very transparent about the methods and practices they use in their manufacturing process. BAMBO Nature are biodegradable non toxic diapers and compostable and are amazing eco-friendly diapers.
The diapers are made with fully breathable backsheet that’s made with fluff pulp and there are no optical brighteners used. The pulp added to the diaper is TCF (totally chlorine-free) and made from plant-based materials. The best thing about these diapers is they have 3 absorbent layers, including an absorbent core, that allow them to stand up to multiple wettings and make them great as overnight diapers.
TO NOTE: These disposable non toxic diapers tend to run a bit large compared to other diaper companies. I would make sure to pay attention to the weight recommendations on each size and you may need to size down from your conventional diaper size.
WHERE TO BUY: BAMBO Nature Diapers are not commonly found in major retail stores. I find it easiest to buy them online via their website or on Amazon. You can use their store locator to find a possible retailer near you.
2. Earth & Eden
Natural, non toxic diapers tend to be more expensive than traditional diaper companies. This can make it hard if you have an infant with sensitive skin, but are also on a budget. Earth & Eden are great, low-cost non-toxic diapers that are made with eco-friendly materials.
The designs on the outside layer of the diapers are made with non-toxic water-based ink and the inner liner is hypoallergenic.
TO NOTE: These diapers are not as absorbent as some of the other non toxic diapers on this list. They work great during the day when you are changing diapers more frequently, but not so great for overnight usage.
WHERE TO BUY: Other than purchasing online through Amazon, or you can also find Earth & Eden diapers at most Walmart stores.
3. DYPER
The Dyper company produces plant-based diapers made from bamboo. They are compostable diapers, as well as unprinted and unscented. Everything down to their packaging is eco-friendly. I love how they are made from certified plant-based materials!
They also offer a subscription service you can sign up for to deliver your diapers as needed. You can also add their baby wipes and diaper cream into your monthly boxes.
TO NOTE: This brand also runs a little bit large compared to most conventional diaper brands. Make note of the weight recommendations listed on the packaging and consider sizing down.
WHERE TO BUY: The cheapest way to purchase DYPER diapers is through their delivery service on their website. You can sign-up for a subscription and get a free diaper bag! They are also for purchase from Amazon.
4. Honest Company
Honest Company is one of the most well-known non-toxic diaper companies on the market. They are known for their adorable prints and “TrueAbsorb” technology. They claim their diaper can hold up to 17 times its weight.
These non-toxic diapers also contain a wetness indicator which can be scarce among the natural diaper market. These help you identify when your baby has a wet diaper to change them as quickly as possible.
TO NOTE: This brand of diapers tends to run a bit small. Pay attention to their weight recommendations per size and you may need to size up from your traditional diaper size. I have heard that these diapers are not great for newborns – frequent bowel movements mean frequent blowouts.
WHERE TO BUY: Honest Co diapers can be found at most major retailers – Target, Walmart, CVS, Walgreens, etc. They are also available online through their website or Amazon.
5. Happy Little Camper
Happy Little Camper diapers are one of the most absorbent non-toxic diapers out there. These diapers are great for overnight wearing or infants who are prone to blowouts.
Happy Little Camper diapers are made with natural materials including natural wood pulp, non-GMO cotton, and hypoallergenic materials. One of my favorite things about this company is they include aloe and Vitamin E in their diapers to prevent and soothe any irritated, sensitive skin.
Happy Little Camper absorbent diapers come in a variety of different sizes and super cute prints.
TO NOTE: The tabs on these diapers are positioned farther inward than most conventional diapers. I find It easier to pull the tabs open before you lay the diaper under your infant. Not a huge issue, but if you rely on muscle memory when changing diapers, it is notable.
WHERE TO BUY: Happy Little Camper diapers can be found online through their website or on Amazon. They also offer a subscribe & save program.
6. Andy Pandy
Andy Pandy is not only a non toxic diaper, they are also organic and extremely eco-friendly!
These diapers are made of biodegradable materials such as bamboo that is both soft and very comfy for babies. These are some of my favorite disposable bamboo diapers I have found.
You will also find these diapers are hypoallergenic and antibacterial. With these in mind, your baby will have a soft and healthy bum with these diapers! There is a small amount of aloe essence in their diapers to help nourish your baby’s skin.
These organic diapers do not have any phthalates, latex, chlorine, alcohol, PVC, TBT, and preservatives! Most moms also comment that Andy Pandy are leak-proof diapers as well! This is a great chlorine-free diaper option.
One thing I love about Andy Pandy organic diapers is that it is a mom-owned business. This company also supports St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. This is a great company to get your diapers from.
TO NOTE: Some parents mention that these are not the best when it comes to running true to size. However, you are able to request some samples beforehand to help you. They also provide a full money-back guarantee if you are not satisfied.
WHERE TO BUY: You can find Andy Pandy diapers on Amazon, their website, and at Walmart.
How to Save Money on Non Toxic Diapers
Once you click on the links to buy those non toxic diapers, you’ll quickly learn that natural and clean baby diapers are quite the investment for your baby’s health.
Some major diaper companies like Huggies and Pampers go on sale all the time making it so tempting to buy, especially when you are on a budget.
I’m sure we are all aware of Amazon’s Subscribe & Save program. But did you know Amazon will offer a 20% discount for diapers, even the non-toxic diaper options, have diaper subscriptions, and exclusive offers that can help you save?
All you have to do is be a Prime member and join Amazon Family for free! That’s it!
Then you can choose how often you want to receive diapers. If you have a baby registry on Amazon, you can get another 20% discount with their diaper incentive!
Learn more about the other incredible benefits of a baby registry on Amazon for new parents as well.
One thing I love about this is that it helps you never run out of diapers. So often it is hard to remember to order them when you are so sleep-deprived. The auto-ship allows you to never forget and run out!
Doing a subscribe & save will definitely bring the price per diaper down, especially if you have the baby registry discount on top of that!
The companies listed above produce some of the best non toxic diapers on the market. In general, you want to search for diaper companies that produce diapers free of the chemicals we talked about. You can often find this information on the diapers’ packaging or product labels.
While natural diapers may be more expensive, your child’s health is worth it with their safe ingredients. What non toxic diapers have you found and love?
Don’t just stop with changing out your diapers though, follow my ditch and switch plan to help you get more natural and safe products in your home one step at a time.
