Why Preemie Cloth Diapers?
Preemie cloth diapers may seem like one more hassle in a world that already has you in a tailspin. However, there are very good reasons to choose cloth diapers for fragile newborns.
Preemie Cloth Diapers Are Gentle on Skin
The chemicals and fibers used in disposable diapers are really hard on a preemie's delicate skin. The rubbing and chafing can cause sores and skin breakdown - as can the dyes, perfumes, super-absorbent polymers and other chemicals in disposable diapers.
Baby Can Breathe Easy with Preemie Cloth Diapers
As any mom of a preemie can tell you - a preemie parent's biggest concern is usually breathing. Linda Byerline, creator and owner of Happy Heiny's cloth diapers was able to document that her preemie baby girl needed fewer breathing treatments and hospitalizations when she wore cloth diapers.
One study found that the offgassing chemicals from disposables created asthma-like symptoms in mice - leading the study author to state that even having a single disposable diaper in the room could cause breathing problems in susceptible humans.
My mother has lung problems and I suffer from asthma - the fumes coming off of a fresh box of disposable diapers definitely aggravates my asthma and causes my mother to have more difficulty getting enough oxygen. Imagine what that does to a tiny preemie's already sensitive lungs.
Choosing Preemie Cloth Diapers
Preemie cloth diapers are available in several styles. For the tiniest babies, the obvious choice is Happy Heiny's Micro Mini all in one diapers. These gentle diapers are designed to fit from 1-6 pounds, each stage covers about 3 pounds of growth.
Little Joeys all in one diapers are a good choice for slightly bigger preemies.
Preemie prefolds and covers are an economical choice, but are usually a better option after your little one comes home from the hospital since medical staff may want to avoid using them. However, trifolding a prefold and laying it in a lined cover can be an excellent and affordable choice that will work for many parents even in the hospital.
Click here to see our preemie cloth diapers selection.
