The Tewksbury Patch Moms Council is made of of moms throughout the community from all different walks of life. Each week, the moms tackle a different question posed by readers of Tewksbury Patch on issues of life, family and motherhood. This week, the Moms tacklle one of the most basic questions new parents face -- cloth vs. diposable.

Dear Moms,

Taking into account comfort and health of a baby plus impact on the environment, which is a better choice, cloth diapers or disposable?

The Answers:

Sue Panilaitis -- As I see it, there are four things to consider:  cost, environmental factors, skin care and health concerns, and convenience.  There are pros and cons to both options and it really comes down to a personal choice and depends on each family’s circumstances:  their lifestyle, economic situation, environmental concern and obviously personal preferences.  Moreover, there really is not one best type of diaper as the needs of babies are all different.  However, keep in mind it is not an all or nothing proposition.  Several parents opt to use cloth diapers at home, but disposables when they are out and about in the community.

Linda Rowe -- Having used both disposable and cloth diapers, I feel disposable diapers are the way to go.  Cloth diapers leave the child's skin wet and their is no barrier to the smell of urine.   It is impossible to change a cloth diaper every time the child wets.   Disposable diapers are easier to use being one piece and take less time to change than cloth. They are more absorbant than cloth and  fit more securely allowing  for less leaks. They also come in many more sizes than cloth.  Disposable are easier when outside the home or traveling as they can be thrown away and not saved to bring home. Disposable diapers are more sanitary and are welcomed at more daycares  unlike cloth diapers.  Cloth or Disposable?  It is a personal choice that each family needs to make to fit their own needs.

Do you have a question for the Tewksbury Moms Council? Send it to williamg@patch.com