Are Reusable Diapers Worth It? (Cloth vs Disposable Comparison)

If you’ve ever looked at all the cloth diapering mamas on Instagram and TikTok and asked yourself, “Are reusable diapers worth it?” you’re not alone. Cloth diapering is making a comeback among parents who want to save money, reduce waste, and be gentler on their baby’s skin. 

But is cloth diapering worth it for your family? The answer depends on your budget, your routine, and your baby’s needs.

The Real Cost: Cloth vs. Disposable Diapers

The average cost of disposable diapers per year is typically between $800 and $1,200, depending on brand and how often your baby needs changing. 

Over two to three years, that adds up to $2,000–$3,000—money that literally gets thrown away.

By comparison, the cost of reusable diapers is front-loaded, but long-term savings add up quickly. 

A full set of top-rated cloth diapers can cost $300–$600, depending on the brand and how many you buy. Even expensive cloth diapers usually pay for themselves within the first year, and they can be reused for future children.

If you’d prefer to outsource the washing, consider a cloth diaper service—these typically cost $20–$35 per week, or around $1,000–$1,800 per year. While this narrows your cloth diaper cost savings, it still provides environmental benefits and less waste.

Questions to Ask Before Choosing Reusable Diapers

Before you commit to cloth diapering, ask yourself a few key questions to see if it fits your family’s lifestyle:

1. Does your baby have extra-sensitive skin?

If your baby struggles with frequent rashes or eczema, cloth diapers made from breathable natural fibers like cotton or bamboo can help. They avoid the fragrances, dyes, and chemicals found in many disposable brands.

Recommended: The Best Diapers for Diaper Rash (Cloth + Disposable Brands)

2. Is cloth diapering practical for your schedule?

Cloth diapering requires a bit more laundry—typically two or three extra loads a week. For some parents, that’s manageable; for others, it may not fit into an already full schedule.

3. Do you have easy access to laundry?

Owning a washing machine makes cloth diapering simple. If not, a cloth diaper service might be worth the cost for the added convenience.

4. Could a hybrid approach work better?

You don’t have to go all-in to see the benefits. Many families use reusables during the day and disposables at night or when traveling. Even part-time cloth use can lead to meaningful cloth diaper cost savings and a smaller environmental footprint.

It Doesn’t Have to Be All or Nothing

One of the biggest misconceptions about cloth diapering is that you need to do it full-time. In reality, any effort counts. Even using cloth diapers a few days per week can reduce waste and save hundreds of dollars over time. The key is finding what works for your family.

Don’t Forget a Cloth-Friendly Diaper Cream

If you choose reusable diapers, your diaper cream matters more than you might think. Many traditional creams contain zinc oxide, petroleum, or fish oils—ingredients that can stain or build up on cloth fibers, leaving them less absorbent over time.

That’s why it’s important to use a cloth-friendly formula designed to protect your baby’s skin and your diapers.

NOLEO 3-in-1 Diaper Care is made without zinc, petroleum, or fish oils, so it won’t clog or cake onto cloth diapers. Instead, it gently cleans, moisturizes, and leaves a light protective barrier that keeps your baby’s skin comfortable and balanced.

It’s a simple way to prevent irritation—especially for little ones who experience sensitivity with reusable diapers—while keeping your cloth system in great condition.

Is Cloth Diapering Worth It?

When you compare the cloth diapering cost to the average cost of disposable diapers per year, reusable diapers can absolutely be worth it. They’re kinder to your baby’s skin, to your wallet, and to the planet.

You don’t have to commit 100%—even small changes make a big difference. Whether you’re testing the waters with a few reusables or going all-in with a full stash, every cloth diaper you use helps you save money and reduce waste.

Cloth Diaper Guides:

Diaper Cream Ingredients to Avoid When Using Cloth Diapers

Types of Cloth Diapers: A Guide for Aspiring Cloth Diapering Families

How to Clean Cloth Diapers: Step-by-Step Guide

How to Strip Cloth Diapers So They Look Brand New (& Keep Them That Way)