EcoZeal

Hemp diapers and pads are available in many different styles.

Absorbent, odor-resistant, durable and good for the planet – what could be a better material for diapers than hemp?

You might not think of hemp as being soft enough to place next to a baby’s bottom, but modern hemp manufacturing methods are up to the task.  While they may not be quite as soft and fluffy as cotton, hemp diapers are certainly adequate in terms of softness, and they do get softer with each washing.  It also helps to toss them in the dryer for a few minutes to soften, even if you prefer to line-dry.  Most hemp baby products are made of a hemp-cotton blend.

Here are some of the reasons to consider hemp if you’re shopping for diapers:

• Durability – Hemp has three times the tensile strength of cotton.  Washing hemp tends not to degrade the fibers as it does with cotton, so the fabric lasts longer – an especially important consideration with garments subjected (as diapers are) to frequent, high-heat laundering.

• Absorbency – There’s nothing worse than a diaper that doesn’t hold up to the job.  Hemp is highly absorbent and does a great job soaking up all the liquid your baby can pour into it.  Even if you don’t use hemp exclusively, a hemp soaker pad can really help with the wetness issue.

• Breathability – Hemp is more efficient than cotton at wicking moisture away from the body.  Better breathability and wicking capacity helps keep baby comfortable and reduces diaper rash.

• Odor resistance – Hemp is mold- and mildew-resistant and tends not to hang on to odors.  You may find that hemp diapers need less aggressive sanitizing treatment.

• Sustainability – Hemp production is better for the soil and uses far less water than cotton, and requires few or no herbicide or pesticide applications.

Hemp diapers are available in both fitted and pre-fold varieties.

Where to get hemp diapers

Unless you live in a large metropolitan area, you’re unlikely to find hemp diapers in your local brick-and-mortar store.  Fortunately, there are plenty of choices online.  Here are a few to start:

BabyKicks  - Hemp diaper specialty store.  Also carries hemp blend blankets and other accessories.

Eco-Dipes  – hemp fitted diapers and soaker pads; also hemp nursing and postpartum pads for Mom.

Crickett’s Diapers - Hemp/cotton fitted diapers, newborn through toddler sizes.

Modern Mommy Gear - Hemp diaper covers.