Biodegradable is certainly the buzzword of 2022. And it’s no surprise. More and more of us are looking to make eco-friendly swaps when it comes to our everyday purchases. There’s so much we can do as parents and carers to help look after the world around us while providing the best for our babies, and switching to biodegradable diapers is the perfect way to start.
Biodegradable disposable diapers are becoming increasingly popular because they steer clear of toxins, they’re made with environmentally-friendly materials, and they’re brilliant quality. While most biodegradable diapers will still end up in landfills, their plant-based materials mean they’ll stick around for a fraction of the time that plastic diapers do.
And while there may not be a 100% biodegradable diaper on the market yet, they’re a far superior choice for those of us who want to protect the environment and the planet than conventional disposables.
Note: Affiliate links may be used in this post. I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through my affiliate link. Please read my disclosure for more info. All prices and availability are accurate at the time of publishing.
My Top Picks of Biodegradable Diapers: At a Glance
1. Dyper Diaper—5-Star Biodegradable Bamboo Diapers
I love the name of this brand almost as much as I love the diapers themselves. Not only do Dyper offer biodegradable diapers, but a composting service too (for an extra cost). They purchase carbon offsets with every pack bought and they’re even delivered in biodegradable packaging.
- Biodegradable material percentage: 85%
- Price: Between 48 and 60 cents per diaper, depending on the size
- Can they be composted? Yes, depending on local service providers. Dyper also provides a composting service!
2. Eco Pea Diapers—Biodegradable diapers for sensitive skin
Completely vegan and cruelty-free is what’s on offer with Eco Peak diapers. Made from bamboo, these super-cute-sounding diapers are even packed in biodegradable bags.
- Biodegradable material percentage: 85%
- Price: About 50 cents per diaper, depending on the size you need
- Can they be composted? No
3. Ecoriginals—The World’s Most Biodegradable Nappies
Ecoriginals are pretty new to the US market, but they’re already making waves. These organic, eco diapers are made with soft, sustainably sourced wood fluff pulp and are 90% biodegradable. They’re absorbent enough for overnights and feature breathable layers to prevent diaper rash.
Completely free of harmful toxins, the company claims to produce the greenest diapers – a claim that seems to be bang on the money!
- Biodegradable material percentage: 90%
- Price: Between 40 to 70 cents per diaper, depending on the size you need
- Can they be composted? No
4. Andy Pandy—Eco-Friendly Non-Toxic Bamboo Diapers
Andy Pandy is one of my favorite diaper brands, period. They’re super soft, plant-based and the majority of their materials is biodegradable – 87%, in fact!
- Biodegradable material percentage: 86.5-87%
- Price: About 40 cents per diaper on average, depending on the size you need
- Can they be composted? Yes, depending on local service providers
Table of Contents
- Are There Any Biodegradable Diapers?
- Beware! Not All Non-Toxic Diapers Are Biodegradable
- Biodegradable Vs Compostable: What’s The Difference?
- How Long Do Diapers Take To Decompose?
- Is The Diaper Production Process Eco-Friendly?
- What Percentage Of A Diaper Is Biodegradable?
- Are Biodegradable Diapers Better for The Environment?
- Can You Compost Biodegradable Diapers?
- Top Biodegradable and Compostable Diapers Review
- What About Other Diapers? Where Do They Stand?
- Do Biodegradable Diapers Work?
- Where Can I Buy Biodegradable Diapers?
- What to Look for In Biodegradable Diapers
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Are Biodegradable Diapers Worth It?
Are there any biodegradable diapers?
Biodegradable Diapers: Do They Exist?
If you’ve not heard of biodegradable disposable diapers before, you might be wondering what it really means and how they’re different from conventional disposables. Reusable diapers have of course been on the market for many years, and for many years before reusable plastic diapers were introduced to moms and dads. But while reusable diapers may be great for the environment, they don’t offer the convenience and ease of disposable and biodegradable diapers, which are super easy to use, and much better when it comes to avoiding landfill than standard disposable diapers.
Essentially, biodegradable diapers are diapers that are either partly biodegradable (fully biodegradable diapers don’t yet exist!), so they can be broken down over time back into the soil. Some can even be composted, making the process even quicker! Luckily, there are more brands than ever on the market offering diapers with the convenience of disposable, but a little hug for the environment with the materials they’re made from.
The majority of diapers, and especially those you find in grocery stores, are made predominantly from plastics and other potentially toxic materials which, as we know, take the planet a heck of a long time to decompose. In fact, plastic trash can stick around for anywhere up to 1000 years before it’s broken down. And we’ve all seen the awful pictures of beaches and wildlife affected by this overuse of plastic. But we can avoid contributing to it with our babies’ diapers by choosing the right biodegradable options.
Beware! Not all non-toxic diapers are biodegradable
There are so many variations, so it can be confusing. Some diapers stay away from certain chemicals but are still made predominantly from plastic, like Amazon’s Mama Bear Gentle Touch diapers.
Others are plant-based and non-toxic, but not biodegradable, like Hello Bello and Honest (which I happen to love).
Some diapers claim they’re organic but aren’t transparent about their chemical use, like Earth’s Best diapers, which are unfortunately not the earth’s best. This is where the term ‘greenwashing’ comes in. Marketing teams know that more and more of us are looking for natural, plant-based diapers, for our baby’s skin, and for the environment.
Related Post: What Are The Best Organic Diapers On The Market, And Why You Should Look For The Most Natural Ingredients
And because these terms aren’t regulated by the FDA, it’s super easy for brands to claim that their diapers are ‘natural’ or ‘organic’ when, actually, they’re made mainly from petroleum-based plastics and they’re packed full of chemicals.
So how can you be sure?
Ultimately, if a diaper company’s offerings are biodegradable, they’ll let you know. It’s a huge selling point, so they’ll make it clear on the packaging and on their websites. If it doesn’t clearly state ‘biodegradable’, it’s safe to assume they’re not.
Genuine biodegradable, plant-based, and non-toxic diapers include the gold medal winners (in my eyes, at least) Andy Pandy, Nest, Dyper, and Eco Boom. And be sure to read about my favorite organic diaper picks here!
Biodegradable vs compostable: What’s the difference?
The terms ‘biodegradable’ and ‘compostable’ are sometimes used interchangeably, but they shouldn’t be. Biodegradable diapers are those which, when the non-biodegradable bits are removed, can decompose back into the soil. The biodegradable bits will be made from plant-based materials.
So, when a diaper is thrown away and heads to a landfill site, it could, if the conditions are right, break down within a few months or years. But what about composting?
Composting is the process of making plant-based ingredients, often food, into fertilizer. Compostable diapers are those which can be composted, or broken down back into the soil, either at home or using a local compost service. Diaper companies should make it clear whether their biodegradable diapers are able to be composted or not, and where’s best to do this.
For example, Eco Boom’s diapers can be composted at home, provided the non-biodegradable bits are taken off first. Nest diapers, on the other hand, should be commercially composted in order to degrade.
In fact, Nest provides a great explanation of the biodegration process. Moisture and heat from the pile of compost start to break down the diaper, which microorganisms in soil and compost then feed on as nutrients. This results in carbon dioxide, water, and humus (not the chickpea kinda soil nutrient).
Again, companies should make it clear if their diapers can be composted at home or whether they need to be disposed of professionally, but it’s worth dropping them a line if you’re unsure.
How Long Do Diapers Take to Decompose?
How long compostable diapers take to decompose depends largely on the conditions and the material of the diaper. If you’re using a compost tumbler at home, like this one, or an open-air pile, it’ll take roughly a year for the diaper to compost. Using a hot composting bin will be a lot quicker. Make sure it’s suitable to compost your dirty diapers at home before attempting to do so. Companies will usually make it clear if this can be done. Eco Boom, for example, says that it’s possible, provided the non-biodegradable parts of the diaper are removed first.
There are also professional diaper composting services available in certain areas, which will also deal with the breakdown of biodegradable diapers much quicker than you can at home. Ultimately, we’re looking at months to a few years rather than the hundreds of years it takes for the planet to break down standard disposable diapers.
Is the diaper production process eco-friendly?
How eco-friendly the diaper production or manufacturing process is will vary from brand to brand. Some companies make their processes clear, like Bambo Nature.
They not only set out how they avoid chemicals in their manufacturing process, like chlorine but also what they’re doing to cut down on the energy it takes to produce their products.
They tell us that their wood pulp supplier is a member of the Clean Shipping Project and this supplier requires a ‘reduction on energy consumption’. Bambo Nature’s products are manufactured on their most efficient diaper machine and they even recycle 95% of all waste from production.
Not all companies will spell their production policies out so clearly. If you’re unsure, contact the brand directly.
What percentage of a diaper is biodegradable?
Unfortunately, there are no completely biodegradable diapers on the market. Not at the minute, anyway, although I’m sure science will produce one in the not too distant future.
For now, what should you look for? Many biodegradable diaper companies will state the percentage of their diapers made from biodegradable materials. Andy Pandy, Dyper and Nest diapers all contain a high percentage of biodegradable materials – about 85-87%. This is great news for the planet and it means that, after removing the non-biodegradable bits like the sticky tabs, they can be broken back down into the soil.
If you’re unsure about the percentage of biodegradable materials used in a diaper, drop the company a line. If anyone should know, it’s them!
Are Biodegradable Diapers Better for the Environment?
Biodegradable diapers are undoubtedly better for the planet. While most will still head to landfills, they’re so much easier to break down than plastic. We’re talking a few months or years for biodegradable, plant-based diapers as opposed to the 500+ years it takes for plastic diapers. And, when you consider that a baby gets through 7,000 diapers on average before they’re potty trained – that adds up to a lot of plastic we simply don’t have to use.
Disposable diapers which aren’t biodegradable, so the majority of conventional disposables, can take up to 500 years to decompose and, with 3.5 million tons of diapers being thrown away each year, it’s safe to say that the environment will not thank us for it.
And if you want to go a step further for the planet, look for biodegradable diapers which can be composted. But not the poopy ones, of course, as composting won’t kill the pathogens in these diapers! Only pee diapers are suitable for composting.
Can You Compost Biodegradable Diapers?
It’s surprisingly easy to compost biodegradable diapers, provided they’re suitable. You can even do it at home with certain brands, like Eco Boom. If you’re using an open-air pile or a compost tumbler, like this one on Amazon, it’ll take about a year for the diaper to compost. It’ll be even quicker if you’re using a hot composting bin. Just make sure that you add a mix of greens like fruit and veggie waste and browns like dried leaves to your pee diapers to effectively break them down. And turn the compost every fortnight or so to keep it oxygenated.
In some cities, there may even be other options for your diapers. While most cities won’t accept biodegradable diapers in compost bins, some will, and their industrial composters can deal with both pee and poop diapers effectively. You need to check with your local waste program first.
If this isn’t an option where you live, compostable diaper services like the one that Tiny Tots provides and this one from Kind By Nature Living are super convenient, and a brilliant option. These services will collect your dirty diapers and take them to an industrial facility for you.
The Best Biodegradable and Compostable Diapers On The Market
The following diapers are my biodegradable top picks! All of the brands below are made predominantly from eco-friendly materials and claim to be biodegradable to a certain extent.
Not all of these biodegradable diapers can be composted, but some can, either at home or using a professional facility.
| Diaper Brand | Are they compostable? | What percentage is biodegradable | Main material used |
| 1. Aleva Naturals | No | Not stated | Bamboo |
| 2. Andy Pandy | Yes | 86.5-87% | Bamboo |
| 3. Attitude | No | 50% | Wood pulp |
| 4. Dewor | No | Not stated | Bamboo |
| 5. Dyper | Yes | 85% | Bamboo |
| 6. Eco Boom | Yes | Not stated | Bamboo |
| 7. Eco Pea | Yes – commercially | 85% | Bamboo |
| 8. Ecoriginals | No | 90% | Wood pulp and cotton |
| 8. Little Toes | No | 67% | Wood and cotton |
| 9. Nest Baby | Yes – commercially | 87% | Wood, bamboo and cane |
1. Aleva Naturals Bamboo Biodegradable Baby Diapers
Aleva Naturals Bamboo diapers are a gift from the eco-friendly gods. They’re chlorine-free, biodegradable, hypoallergenic, unbleached, cruelty-free, vegan, and completely free from toxins and harsh chemicals. And they make this very clear on their site, which helps us parents make the best decision for our little ones.
While it’s great that they’re biodegradable, it’s a shame that Aleva doesn’t tell us what percentage of the materials used are, in fact, biodegradable.
They do, however, tell us that they’re committed to using safe and effective materials and ingredients across their whole range. In fact, they’re created by a naturopath, herbalist and pharmacist! They’re on a mission to provide parents with eco-sustainable products that provide comfort and care for our little ones.
Their lack of chemicals means they’re great for little ones with sensitive skin and even contain a natural anti-bacterial agent called Bamboo Kun. The company even makes other eco-friendly baby products like baby wipes, skincare essentials, and baby-safe household cleaners.
The diapers are available in different sizes, so it’s easy to find the right fit for your baby.
| Pros | Cons |
| ◆ Certified vegan ◆ Hypoallergenic ◆ Unbleached ◆ Soft on the skin ◆ Features a wetness indicator ◆ Made from plant-based materials including bamboo ◆ Certified vegan ◆ Cruelty-free ◆ Free from toxins and harsh chemicals | ◆ Not fully biodegradable ◆ The company doesn’t state what percentage of the diaper is biodegradable |
2. Andy Pandy – Eco-friendly Biodegradable Bamboo Diapers
Andy Pandy diapers are eco-friendly, disposable, biodegradable diapers made by Hansen Kids, a small family business based in the US. They make eco-friendly products your little one that are not only great for baby, but great for the planet too.
All products produced by this awesome little company are safe and environmentally-friendly. They even partner with Eden Projects, an organization which has helped to plant over 580 million trees.
Their diapers are made from premium quality bamboo and other plant-based materials. And they really are biodegradable! Well, 86.5% biodegradable, at least.
Bamboo is a great material for diapers because it’s a renewable resource that grows fast without the need for pesticides or chemical fertilizers. Andy Pandy diapers are not only soft and silky for your baby’s skin, but really strong and absorbent, able to tackle even the most explosive of diapers!
While the main material used in Andy Pandy diapers is bamboo, there are other non-plant-based materials in the diapers, which is what prevents them from being 100% biodegradable, including velcro tape, elastic in the waistband and around the legs and a PH strip (or wetness indicator). But, these extras are what make the diaper so effective. The 1200+ 5-star reviews prove it! They’re even great for babies with sensitive skin as they’re hypoallergenic, antimicrobial and odor resistant, as well as chlorine-free, alcohol-free, preservative-free and latex-free. Pretty impressive for a diaper that’s tried, tested and loved!
| Pros | Cons |
| ◆ Free from irritants and toxic chemicals ◆ Made from eco-friendly bamboo ◆ 86.5% biodegradable ◆ They have a wetness indicator ◆ Tried and tested, with great reviews! ◆ Fantastic for babies with sensitive skin | ◆ Not 100% biodegradable |
Read Next: Andy Pandy Diapers Review: The Best All-Around Diapers For Baby And For The Planet?
3. ATTITUDE Biodegradable Baby Diapers
Attitude is a company you need to know about. Based in Canada, this ethical company is all about healthy living, vegan products, and doing awesome things for the planet. All of their products are natural, hypoallergenic, and use Environmental Working Group verified ingredients.
The company explains that they recycle all their plastic bottles, minimize manufacturing waste and, if that wasn’t enough, they even partner with Eden Reforestation and One Tree Planted to plant a tree with every purchase.
Made from wood pulp, these eco-conscious diapers are made with 50% biodegradable materials. And it’s no surprise that they’re free from the main nasties – chlorine, phthalates, fragrances, and lotions. Oh, and they’re certified vegan and cruelty-free because apparently there’s nothing these diapers can’t do!
Reviews, as expected, are pretty great, with an average of 4.4 out of 5 on Amazon. Users say they’re super absorbent and soft on baby’s skin.
Read Full Review: Attitude Diapers, Reviewed: Plant-Based, Non-Toxic And Changing The Diaper Game
4. Dewor Baby – Premium Bamboo Disposable Diapers
Dewor disposable diapers, like many other biodegradable diapers, are made with bamboo fibers, for a silky soft feel on your little one’s skin. They claim to feature outstanding absorbency and breathability for a comfortable fit.
Featuring a latex free elastic waist band, they adjust to baby’s body and they’re totally free from chlorine, alcohol, preservatives, fragrances, phthalates, PVC and antioxidants. Its use of natural aloe minimizes the risk of diaper rash and they feature a wetness indicator to take the guesswork out of changing.
But we won’t just take their word for it. They also boast some fantastic reviews, with an average of 4.4 out of 5 on Amazon in over 110 reviews. One reviewer says that, out of all the ‘natural’ diaper brands they’ve tried, Dewor has the best absorbency. Another loves their silky smooth feel, especially compared to other brands which feel quite stiff.
Prices range between around 30 and 50 cents per diaper, depending on the pack size.
Dewor doesn’t state what percentage of the diaper is biodegradable; just that the bamboo layers are suitable, which means the diapers aren’t fully biodegradable.
| Pros | Cons |
| ◆ Good value ◆ Breathable ◆ Free from chlorine, alcohol and preservatives ◆ Uses natural aloe ◆ Made from sustainable bamboo ◆ Tried, tested and loved ◆ Features a wetness indicator ◆ Not tested on animals ◆ They average 4.7 out of 5 in over 350 reviews ◆ So they’re tried, tested and loved! | ◆ Not fully biodegradable |
5. Dyper Diaper – 5-Star biodegradable bamboo diapers
Dyper Diapers (slightly confusing!) market their products as responsible, eco-friendly, soft, absorbent and convenient. So, everything we’re looking for in a diaper, really!
What makes Dyper diapers amazing is that they’re compostable too. You can do this at home, but if you don’t have the time, never fear. Dyper knows how busy parents are, so they even provide a mail service for your old diapers! When you subscribe, they’ll provide you with the bags, boxes and shopping labels you need to transfer your old diapers to their partner TerraCycle for composting. It couldn’t be easier.
And if that wasn’t enough, their diapers are free from phthalates, chlorine, latex, alcohol, PVC, lotions and perfumes. Read more about toxins and my favorite non-toxic diaper picks here!
While they’re really durable and absorbent, they’re soft on the skin, as well as easy to put on and keep on. They’re made with fibers from bamboo and packed in biodegradable bags. And with each delivery of the diapers, the company purchase carbon offsets to help reforestation efforts. Not many companies can say that!
To reduce the price of the diapers, they cut out the middle men and ship directly to you. Dyper will deliver the right size for you at your chosen frequency (every 2 weeks, 4 weeks, etc). For $68, they’ll deliver a subscription box that typically lasts 4 weeks, and this can be adjusted to your needs.
They’ve even got a service called ‘SOS’ for when you’re running low. As long as you’re in a certain area, they’ll deliver between 20 and 52 diapers depending on the size at no extra charge. It’s a great service for those oops moments, and saves you from running to the grocery store and spending a fortune on non-biodegradable diapers!
Check out my favorite diaper subscription services here!
Read Full Review: Dyper Diapers Review: Eco-Friendly, Skin-Friendly And Bank Account-Friendly
| Pros | Cons |
| ◆ The company provide a subscription service ◆ Made with eco-friendly bamboo ◆ Packed in biodegradable bags ◆ Free from harsh chemicals ◆ Durable and absorbent ◆ Soft on the skin ◆ They provide a professional composting service ◆ They purchase carbon offsets with every delivery | ◆ A subscription service might not work for all budgets ◆ They’re not available in individual packs |
6. ECO BOOM Baby bamboo biodegradable disposable diapers
A relative newcomer to the disposable, biodegradable diaper market, Eco Boom diapers, again, are made from bamboo. They can be composted at home or using a professional service, provided the non-biodegradable bits like the sticky tabs are removed first.
They also arrive at your door in biodegradable packaging. They’re great for little ones with sensitive skin as they’re hypoallergenic and they’re super flexible, so easily adjusted to your baby’s body. Like the other diapers reviewed, they’re free from chlorine, alcohol, latex and PVC.
At around 40-50 cents per diaper, depending on the size and pack, they’re pretty in line with similar products when it comes to price and they average 4.5 out of 5 stars in over 60 reviews on Amazon.
While they’re made with bamboo, they contain SAP, which is not biodegradable.
Read Full Review: Eco Boom Diapers Review: Plant-Based, Biodegradable And Saving The Planet
| Pros | Cons |
| ◆ Made with biodegradable bamboo ◆ Hypoallergenic ◆ Soft and silky ◆ Super flexible ◆ Free from harsh chemicals and toxins | ◆ Not 100% biodegradable |
7. Eco Pea Diapers – Bamboo Diapers for Sensitive Skin
Eco Pea diapers are the straight-A student of the diaper world. Completely non-toxic, they shun any potentially harmful materials like phthalates, fragrances, and lotions, and use water-based inks. Formerly called Cutie Pea diapers, they’re not only made from soft and sustainable bamboo but hypoallergenic too. Eco Pea Diapers can be composted at a commercial facility.
Eco Pea diapers are made with over 85% biodegradable material. The top sheet and back sheet are made with bamboo that is harvested sustainably and processed without chemicals. This part is in contact with the baby’s skin. The diapers also use FSC-certified TCF wood pulp and environment-protected water-based ink. On the flip side, there are some small but necessary materials that are synthetic – PE, Spandex, and SAP.
They offer biodegradable wipes and training pants alongside their diapers, and you can subscribe to save 20% on the single pack prices. Plus, they’ll be delivered straight to your door. Amazing.
And if all of that epicness wasn’t enough, Eco Pea’s shipping process is carbon neutral. They’re basically single-handedly saving the planet…
Read Full Review: Eco Pea Diapers Review 2020: Super Soft, Sustainable And Saving The Planet
| Pros | Cons |
| ◆ Hypoallergenic ◆ Made from sustainable bamboo ◆ They have a wetness indicator ◆ They have blowout guards ◆ They’re free of chlorine ◆ Free of phthalates ◆ Free of lotions ◆ Free of fragrances ◆ They use water-based dyes ◆ Their shipping process is carbon neutral ◆ They offer a subscription service ◆ Their packaging is also biodegradable ◆ They’re vegan and cruelty-free | ◆ What’s not to like? |
8. Ecoriginals Diapers – The World’s Most Biodegradable Nappies
Ecoriginals diapers are made with sustainably sourced wood fluff pulp, are great for overnights and feature breathable layers to prevent diaper rash. The company claims to produce the greenest diapers and wipes on earth – a bold claim indeed!
They’re completely free of nasty toxins like phthalates and fragrances and contain a whopping 90% biodegradable materials – more than any other biodegradable diaper currently on the market. It’s a shame they’re not compostable, but I hope it’s something they’re working on.
And they’re not just green. Their reviews are brilliant, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5. Users love how soft they are and how wonderfully eco-friendly the brand is! Not only do they offer biodegradable diapers, but their manufacturing process is carbon neutral and they plant a tree for every order they receive.
Prices, as you might expect, aren’t exactly cheap. It’ll set you back about 62 cents per diaper for their ‘Walker’ size, which is a little more than some similar brands. But, if your budget can stretch to it, they’re more than worth it.
| Pros | Cons |
| ◆ Breathable layers ◆ 90% biodegradable materials ◆ Free from phthalates ◆ Free from fragrances and lotions ◆ Free from chlorine ◆ Made with sustainable wood fluff pulp ◆ Average 4.8 out of 5 in reviews ◆ Australia’s highest rated diaper ◆ Suitable for overnights ◆ Plastic-free ◆ Carbon neutral manufacturing ◆ Ecoriginals plant a tree with every order ◆ Suitable for overnights ◆ Save money by subscribing | ◆ Not compostable ◆ On the higher side price-wise |
9. Little Toes – Naturally Biodegradable disposable bamboo diaper
Sorry if I sound like a broken record, but these companies have nailed the whole chlorine-free, alcohol-free, latex-free, perfume-free thing. And, Little Toes are no exception! With no harsh chemicals, these diapers are naturally hypoallergenic, made with ultra-soft bamboo fibers – a popular choice indeed – and vegan.
The company packs their diapers in biodegradable packaging and, although their diapers aren’t compostable, they will, the company states, decompose in landfills when they’re exposed to light in just 180 days. This is amazing compared to the 500+ years it takes for regular disposables.
They feature a 100% bamboo top sheet and back sheet, a super absorbent core, and an elastic back waistband. At between 50 and 60 cents for each diaper, if you buy single packs, they’re arguably on the higher side when it comes to price.
| Pros | Cons |
| ◆ Free from harsh chemicals and toxins ◆ Naturally hypoallergenic ◆ Made with ultra-soft bamboo fibers ◆ Vegan ◆ Feature a super absorbent core ◆ They provide a subscription service | ◆ On the higher side price-wise |
10. Nest Baby Diapers – natural plant-based Biodegradable eco-diapers
Made with hand-picked sustainable materials like wood, bamboo and cane, Nest diapers and training pants are completely free of harmful chemicals, allergens, lotions and perfume, all of which are known to irritate some babies’ skin.
Nest is a small family company that is all about green parenting, and, unlike some diaper brands, provide certification to prove that their diapers and biodegradable and compostable. The company is incredibly transparent and posts a full list of everything that goes into making each Nest diaper, including listing which of the materials is not biodegradable. And they’re even packaged in an environmentally-friendly, recyclable moisture-proof bag.
Nest baby diapers are compostable, but make sure you do this using a professional service.
| Pros | Cons |
| ◆ Hypoallergenic ◆ Made from sustainable materials like bamboo, wood and cane ◆ Free from harmful chemicals ◆ Small family company ◆ They provide a list of exactly what makes Nest diapers ◆ Packed in a recyclable bag ◆ Soft and absorbent | ◆ It’s hard to find reviews of the Nest diaper ◆ Depending on how many you buy, they cost around 50-60 cents per diaper, which is a little more than other, similar brands |
What about other diapers? Where do they stand?
Some diapers are made with some plant-based ingredients and steer clear of toxins, but aren’t biodegradable. Here’s a list of the best!
Eco by Naty Diapers
One of the best-known eco-friendly (or friendlier, at least) diaper companies is Eco by Naty. Made from plant-based materials and free of toxins, they’re not biodegradable but are certainly a better choice than conventional disposables.
It helps that they’re pretty easy to get hold of too. They’re available online and in most grocery stores.
It would be great to see them jump on the biodegradable train, though.
Related Post: Eco By Naty Diapers Review 2022: The Number 1 Eco Diaper?
Bambo Nature Diapers
Bambo Nature is another diaper that’s pretty popular on the plant-based diaper scene.
They’re a great choice for those wanting to make more eco-friendly purchases because the company commits to steering clear of chemicals and irritants, sourcing certified raw materials, and recycling 95% of waste from their production.
They have pretty great reviews and are available on Amazon. You might even save some extra cash with the Amazon Family Program.
Read Next: Bambo Nature Diapers Review: Fantastic For Your Baby, Fantastic For The Planet!
Earth + Eden Diapers
I expected big things when I first came across Earth and Eden diapers. While they’re hypoallergenic and they don’t contain nasties like lotions, chlorine, and fragrances, they’re not biodegradable. They are made with sustainably sourced fluff pulp though.
Read Next: Earth And Eden Diapers Review: As Good For The Earth As The Name Suggests?
Abby + Finn Diapers
Abby & Finn is a great, natural baby product company. They offer products like diaper balm, bubble bath and baby diapers. Free from the main toxins, these plant-based diapers are great value for money – they’ll set you back about 30 cents per diaper, depending on the size you need.
Compared to some non-toxic diapers, which can set you back anything up to 70 cents or more, they’re great value.
You can even subscribe to their diapers, so you don’t have to worry about picking any up at the store!
Read More: A Review Of Abby And Finn Diapers: Budget-Friendly, But Is That Enough?
Hello Bello Diapers
If you’ve seen any of my other guides and reviews, you’ll already know I’m a fan of Hello Bello diapers. Founded by Anna from Frozen herself – Kristen Bell – this company produces non-toxic plant-based diapers which, like Abby + Finn, are affordable. They even arrive at your door in boxes that transform into playthings for the kids!
Read Next: Hello Bello Diapers Review: A-List Diapers For Your Little One
Honest Co Diapers
Like Kristen Bell, the founder of Honest diapers didn’t want to stick to her day job either. Jessica Alba was one of the founders of this plant-based diaper company. They use chlorine-free wood pulp to make their diapers, which aren’t biodegradable but are free from toxins.
Related Post: Honest Diapers Review: Honestly? They Don’t Live Up To The Hype
Parasol Diapers
Toxin-free Parasol diapers are made with chlorine-free wood pulp and have wonderful reviews. Like the others, they’re not biodegradable.
Healthynest Diapers
Healthynest diapers are pretty new to the eco diaper market. But they’re already making waves.
These diapers are the only diapers certified by the Environmental Working Group – a nonprofit organization that shines a light on harmful industry practices. They boast a bunch of eco certifications and are a truly healthy choice for your little one.
Read More: Healthynest Diapers Reviewed: The New (And Super Healthy) Kid On The Block
Coterie Diapers
These luxury diapers describe themselves as ‘the right decision’. Aside from the fact that they’re not biodegradable, that’s probably true.
They too boast eco-credentials and are super soft against baby’s skin. And, obviously, they’re plant-based and free of harmful toxins!
Read More: Coterie Diapers Review: Luxury, Non-Toxic Diapers Your Baby Will Love
Do Biodegradable Diapers Work?
While we all want to save the planet, for many of us, convenience and effectiveness are also big factors when it comes to buying baby essentials like diapers. Diapers which are better for the environment are great, but no one wants to be changing their little ones every 10 minutes or throwing away clothes that have succumbed to an almighty poop explosion that the ineffective diaper just couldn’t handle. I say this from experience…
So are they actually as good at keeping our babies dry and protected as regular disposable diapers?
This, of course, depends on the brand, but most biodegradable diapers have fantastic reviews and will handle the messiest of messes as effectively as ‘regular’ diapers. Andy Pandy diapers, biodegradable diapers made from premium bamboo, boast over 1,200 5-star reviews and many users comment on how good they are at keeping their babies dry. They even have a wetness indicator that takes the guesswork out of changing. Nest Baby diapers have a plant-based ‘ultra-absorbent core’ that wicks away moisture from the baby’s skin.
Each parent or carer will of course have a preference, and different products work for different little ones, but you’re sure to find a biodegradable diaper that works for the environment, and for your family!
Where can I buy biodegradable diapers?
Despite their increasing popularity, it’s still pretty rare to find biodegradable diapers in your local grocery store, unless you’re shopping at health food stores. The main offerings will, unfortunately, be disposable, non-biodegradable diapers, which are, of course, pretty awful for the planet.
So where do you buy them?
The best place to find a whole host of biodegradable diaper options is Amazon. A quick search will result in loads of varieties. You can then read their descriptions and reviews, and pick the best for you. Or… allow me to do it for you!
What to look for in biodegradable diapers
With so many biodegradable disposable diapers available on the market as we become more and more conscious of our impact on the environment, what do you need to consider to make the best purchase for your family?
- Lack of chemicals
One of the main advantages of biodegradable diapers, apart from the obvious benefits to the planet, is that they tend to be made from natural, non-toxic materials. It’s still really important to read the description thoroughly and check for an ingredients list if the company provides one.
Unlike many disposable plastic diapers on the market, which contain potentially harmful chemicals, biodegradable diapers usually shout about the fact that they do not. Be sure to read the description properly and look out for pesky chemicals that might not do a whole load of good for your baby’s skin, like phthalates, PVC, fragrances, alcohols, and lotions.
- Price
Even the most eco-conscious among us have a budget. Depending on the brand, biodegradable diapers can be more expensive per diaper than the brands you’d find in the grocery store, but they can also be very competitively priced, especially when you buy larger packs online.
Biodegradable diapers can work out at anything between around 25 cents per diaper to 60+ cents, depending on the brand, size, and pack. Amazon handily points out how many cents you’re paying for each diaper with each product, helping you look for the brand within your budget.
A great option to help get the most for your money is the Amazon Family program, which provides Prime members with family offers and coupons, as well as 20% off diapers and baby food subscriptions. With a pretty hefty saving and the convenience of diapers to your door, it’s a fantastic option no matter what your budget!
- Function
So they might be biodegradable, but are they fit for their purpose? There are loads of varieties of biodegradable diapers available, from those for tiny newborn babies to pull-ups for toddlers. And the reviews will of course vary, so check that they’re the right size for your baby, will hold in what you need them to hold in (if you know what I mean), and they’ve been tried and tested by moms, dads, and carers!
A wetness indicator might also be a dealbreaker for you so that you can take the guesswork out of diaper changing, which a lot of biodegradable diapers do offer. Again, check the description to make sure.
- Biodegradable
There are so many terms used with diapers that can be easily confused with ‘biodegradable’. It’s really important to make sure that, if you want to buy biodegradable diapers, they really are biodegradable! Just because diapers are described as eco-friendly, natural, gentle, or made from plant materials, this doesn’t necessarily mean they’re biodegradable.
Check in the description what exactly they’re made of, and it should also tell you what percentage of the diaper is biodegradable. While fully biodegradable diapers don’t yet exist, many are made from around 80% biodegradable materials. Andy Pandy, Eco Boom and Dyper are a few of the best!
Frequently Asked Questions about Biodegradable Diapers
1. Are Honest Diapers biodegradable?
The Honest Company maybe a diaper maker that you’ve heard of before. While they’re made from sustainable materials and, like most similar brands, are made without chlorine and other potentially harmful chemicals, they’re not biodegradable.
A popular misconception is that diapers made with eco-friendly materials are always able to be composted. This is unfortunately not the case, so it’s super important to read the description thoroughly to check whether they’re labeled biodegradable. Read my complete review about Honest Diapers here.
Related Post: Honest Diapers Review: Honestly? They Don’t Live Up To The Hype
2. Are Eco by Naty diapers biodegradable?
Like the Honest company, Eco by Naty diapers have all the right buzzwords: eco, plant-based, natural. But unfortunately, Eco by Naty diapers are not biodegradable. They’re made from around 55% bio/plant-based materials, but the company say that this, unfortunately ‘doesn’t mean they can be composted’. They say that they’re now starting to focus on renewable materials rather than compostable materials. So if you’re looking for a diaper that can be at least party composted, Eco by Naty might not be the best choice.
Related Post: Eco By Naty Diapers Review 2022: The Number 1 Eco Diaper?
3. Are Bambo Nature diapers biodegradable?
Bambo Nature diapers are a little better than Eco By Naty diapers in that they are partly compostable – 75% because they contain plastic details: a polypropylene top-sheet and a polypropylene/polyethylene back-sheet. You can read more in my complete Bambo Nature Diapers Review here. The company says that they’re commercially compostable, and advise contacting an approved facility or compostable diapering service where you live.
4. Are Earth’s Best Chlorine-Free Diapers biodegradable?
Again, despite great buzzwords like ‘earth-friendly’, ‘chlorine free’ and ‘dye-free’, Earth’s Best diapers do not claim to be biodegradable. While they’re undoubtedly better for your baby’s skin as they’re much gentler, they’re not necessarily better for the environment, as they’ll still end up in landfills like ‘standard’ diapers.
Read Next: Earth’s Best Diapers Review: Hardly The Best For The Planet
5. Are Babyganics Ultra Absorbent diapers biodegradable?
The box certainly looks pretty and they’re made with ‘natural’ and ‘renewable’ resources, but there’s little information available about what exactly these diapers are made of. Plus, there’s no mention from the company of them being biodegradable. They seem to be one of the cheaper brands claiming to be ‘natural’ but they’re not biodegradable or compostable.
Related Post: Babyganics Diapers Review 2022: Disappointed Sums It Up
6. Are Seventh Generation Free and Clear Diapers biodegradable?
Seventh Generation diapers are not biodegradable and cannot be composted. As frustrating as this is, the company at least makes it clear. With some brands, it’s hard to find out what it’s made of in the first place! I’d always choose transparent companies who clearly label the materials used and, of course, if your budget allows, biodegradable is always better when it comes to disposable diapers than those that aren’t. It’s a shame that Seventh Generation diapers haven’t made the biodegradable leap yet.
Related Post: Seventh Generation Diapers Review 2022: Greenwashed And Ineffective?
Are biodegradable diapers worth it?
It might seem like a minefield when you initially look into biodegradable diaper options, but once you find the perfect brand for you, the benefits for you, your baby, and your planet are endless. The brands listed in my top biodegradable diaper picks all use plant-based materials, are silky soft on baby’s skin, and are partly biodegradable. None use nasty chemicals, which is so much better for your baby and for the environment.
It’s worth trying out a couple of brands that suit your budget to figure out which will work best for your little one, and also to think about a convenient composting option. Services like this one from Tiny Tots make it easy for you to send away your used diapers (again, not the poopy ones!) to be professionally composted. Composting at home is another option, for brands that are suitable, like Eco Boom, and this is a great and simple guide to DIY-ing it.
Some, like Dyper diapers and Little Toes diapers, provide a subscription service, which is a great and convenient way to get eco-friendly disposable diapers sent directly to your home. Us moms, dads, and carers have enough to think about, without remembering you need a diaper top-up in the middle of a poop explosion. We’ve all been there…
Related Post: 14 Best Diaper Delivery Services: Comparisons & Reviews
Ultimately, the more we decide to opt for biodegradable diapers, the more the industry will see that there’s a high demand for diapers that minimize our impact on the environment. With Eco technology advancing all the time, it hopefully won’t be long until there are more options than ever that include 100% biodegradable diapers.
It’s safe to say we’re all ready for a diaper revolution!
Related Reading
