When it comes to diapering, many parents automatically reach for disposable diapers. They are practical, quick, and increasingly absorbent. But there is an alternative that challenges both traditional and sustainable expectations: cloth diapers. In our latest episode of 1000Deeg, we spoke with Anouk Wagner, an expert at the Liewensufank initiative, to explore what makes cloth diapers so special—and why they are still often viewed with skepticism.
Anouk Wagner is an expert at the Liewensufank initiative, which also offers individual cloth diaper consultations. Parents can receive practical tips, information about different systems, and support for incorporating cloth diapers into their daily routine.
Anouk switched to cloth diapers with her second child—not as a conscious decision from the outset, but because a health issue left no other option. “My daughter’s skin was so sensitive that she could only tolerate one specific brand of disposable diapers. When this brand was unavailable for a few weeks, that was the moment we decided: let’s try cloth diapers.” What started as a stopgap measure became a revelation for the family.
Still, not everyone was immediately convinced. “My husband is still skeptical and prefers disposable diapers because he finds them practical and thinks they’re easier to manage in our busy daily life,” Anouk explains. “It took some time for us as a family to find common ground. We learned that it’s okay if everything isn’t perfect.”
What Are the Benefits of Cloth Diapers?
Cloth diapers have been on the market for decades, but with modern designs and innovative materials, they are now more practical than ever. They not only help protect the environment—by reducing waste—but are also better for the baby’s skin. “Disposable diapers often contain chemicals that can irritate the skin and absorb so much liquid that children don’t even notice when they’ve peed. With cloth diapers, children can feel what’s happening immediately. This creates a certain awareness of their bodies,” Anouk explains.
The combination of awareness and practicality sounds appealing. But the question remains: why don’t all parents use this alternative?
Challenges in Everyday Life
“I think the biggest barrier is the myth that cloth diapers are too much work, or that they are often seen as nostalgic or impractical,” says Anouk. “This is something that has been passed down to us by previous generations. But the reality is that you can manage with about 25 diapers and only need to do laundry every three days.”
Of course, this adds an extra step to the daily routine, and not every family feels they have the time to take this on. Choosing cloth diapers requires commitment and a certain level of organization. It’s not an option for parents who want to handle diapering quickly. “But this can actually be a strength,” Anouk emphasizes. “The time you dedicate to your child creates an intimate connection. It’s a moment of calm, eye contact, and awareness—something that is often lost in the hustle and bustle of daily life.”
Environment and Society
Although cloth diapers have a positive impact on the environment, their adoption isn’t always straightforward. Anouk explains: “Our society is geared toward convenience. Anything that requires more effort is often dismissed as impractical.” Financial barriers also play a role: the initial investment in cloth diapers is higher, even though they are cheaper in the long term. “This is where policy needs to step in—with financial incentives or informational campaigns to highlight the benefits.”
A Question of Consciousness
In our conversation with Anouk, it became clear: cloth diapers are not for everyone, but they offer a way to reflect on personal consumption habits and explore alternatives. “It’s not about convincing all parents. But I think we should all take a step back and ask ourselves: what impact does our decision have on the future of our children and the world they will grow up in?”
Comments