Recently, I read the wonderful book, Horton Hears a Who, by Dr. Seuss to my daughter; and had a funny feeling this book could teach me some serious lessons about why my cloth diapering business is so important to me. The book’s about an elephant, that protects and helps a small race of people, called, “Who’s” from enemies. They have to prove their existence and their worth, and they are saved by one little “Who”. I have a seven month old “Who” whom I proudly cloth diaper. Despite that she’s in the minority (80% are in sposies) my little Who, lets me know using cloth diapers is an informed and responsible choice. Before I started using cloth, I thought it was hard, and too much work, but it’s come a long way. Though cloth diapering is forgotten to most people now-days, it wasn’t always this way.

Cloth diapering used to be the only option until the late-50s. Hmm, the 1950s. Many inventions in that decade changed the mind-set of Americans. New modern “conveniences” were marketed, such as birth-control pills, baby formula and disposable diapers. Many parents switched to disposables, believing that easier and faster equals better.

Now, decades later, we are realizing drawbacks to disposables. They are the third largest single consumer item in our landfills, and once there, they last about 500 years before decomposing. They also carry health risks. Namely, dioxin: a carcinogenic bleaching chemical, banned in feminine hygiene products, yet still used in making disposable diapers (riddle that one for yourself).

Reason enough to turn to cloth, right? Believe me; cloth diapers are simple, effective and healthy for all involved. They can be affordable, and are easy to use. The easiest method is through a diaper service. Contracts are flexible, and everything provided. Diapers are whisked away discreetly, and replaced weekly with freshly cleaned cloth for your babe. All the dirty work’s done for you at the cost of about $20 per week.

Additionally, many people choose to buy cloth diapers as a parenting investment. Surprisingly, there is a large market of beautiful handcrafted diapers that can be yours (or your baby’s). Made by WAHM’s (work at home moms) they’ve flooded the diaper market in recent years as amazing alternatives. These small companies offer diapers made with unique fabrics, styles and flash. As a WAHM myself, I specialize in bamboo fabric diapers. (A highly sustainable organic fabric). I find that, as an informed and mindful consumer, there isn’t any reason to use disposable diapers anymore. I’m glad that people are starting make healthy choices that benefit babies, rather than causing harm and waste. Cloth diapers are cuter than ever… do a little searching, and you’ll be amazed and the variety and ease….and maybe you’re little “Who” will tell you what mine has told me!