Diapers

Americans call it diaper, while in some parts of the world it is known as nappy. The word "Nappy" is believed to be a diminutive form of "Napkin", in UK, Australia, and other Commonwealth countries. The word 'diaper' appears to have derived from a pattern of geometric shapes into which a special type of cloth was cut to make the earliest diapers.  Made from a sponge -like clothing, the diaper, which has been in use for a long period in human history, is mainly worn by infants and children who are unable to control their bladder and bowel movements. Adults who suffer from incontinence and who are incapable of easing themselves in the toilet, also use diapers.

Diapers are made of cloth, mainly terry toweling, which could be washed and re-used several times. These diapers are lauded for causing the least impact on the environment. However, the disposable ones, made of special absorbent material are considered environmentally unfriendly. But the later ones are more popular owing to its expediency in use.

Types Of Diapers

Traditional cloth diapers are made of square or rectangular pieces of natural fibre (mainly cotton), synthetic or a combination of both and are secured with a safety pin. Innovations, in cloth diapers include an assortment of shapes; special absorbent layer combined with watertight layer; non-absorbent lining like polyurethane laminate; and "stuffable" or hybrid diapers with water-proof shells into which the absorbent material can be placed. Securing methods may include snap closures, hook or Velcro.

The disposable diaper, an idea created by a Swedish paper company in the middle of the 20th century, has evolved many fold. It started with rubber pants stuffed with a few sheets of tissues and now its highly adaptable and improved versions has varying shapes, made of super absorbent materials, sealable tapes, elasticized waistbands, and wetness indicators. A more recent version includes training pants and pant diapers that help young children in transitioning to the toilet training phase.

How To Use Diapers

Diapers should be changed once they are soiled. This will prevent irritation of skin around the buttocks and genitalia. An alternative to diaper-use involves potty training. Train infants to respond to sound associations or react to the body language.

Environmental Concerns

Are cloth diapers less of a burden on the environment than disposable ones? The issue is highly controversial and it appears that neither of them can be given a clean chit. This is because, while cloth diapers do not fight for place in landfills, they do require water, detergent and dry storage. Disposable diapers, on the other hand are easily discarded after use along with garbage, but place a tremendous strain on landfills and would use up water if they are given a preliminary wash prior to disposal.