a box of Earth and Eden diapers

Earth and Eden Diapers Review: As Good For The Earth As The Name Suggests?

I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but more and more diaper companies with ‘earthy’ names are popping up on the increasingly eco-friendly market. With a name like Earth and Eden, I’m expecting plant-based diapers that go out of their way to minimize the harmful effects of conventional disposable diapers on the world around us. 

Ten years ago, finding an eco diaper wasn’t an easy feat. But as we’re waking up to the climate crisis and always on the lookout for planet-friendly swaps, the plant-based diaper market has seen a boom. And that’s good news for our babies, for us, and for the world around us. 

So how do Earth and Eden’s diapers compare? Are they truly good for the environment? And are they worth trying?

Here’s everything you need to know about Earth and Eden diapers!

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.

a box of earth eden diapers

What are  Earth and Eden diapers made of? 

It’s great when you don’t have to spend hours searching for a diaper’s ingredients. When our babies spend most of their early lives wearing them, we deserve to know what’s in them! 

Earth and Eden diapers make their ingredients super clear on their site. They include sustainably sourced elemental chlorine-free fluff, polypropylene fabrics, non-toxic absorbent polymer, a chlorine-free cotton layer, safe adhesives, latex-free elastics, and water-based inks, made without lead and heavy metals. Their fluff pulp is even certified by the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI).

Even the most eco-conscious diapers contain some plastics, so it’s not a surprise to see them used in Earth and Eden diapers. Currently, you can’t buy 100% plant-based disposable diapers, but I’m hoping science will develop one soon!

What are they free from? 

You’d think that baby diapers would always steer clear of harsh chemicals and toxins. Our babies’ skin is delicate, so it deserves the best!

Unfortunately, this isn’t the case. In fact, most diapers contain some form of unnecessary added chemicals, so it’s important to look for diapers that avoid them. Many of the chemicals used in diapers aren’t regulated by the FDA, so companies don’t have to tell us about them. The best way to find health-for-your-baby diapers is to look for brands that clearly state what they’re free of.

So how do Earth and Eden diapers fare?

Earth and Eden Diapers are free from:

  • Phthalates
  • Lotions
  • Fragrances
  • Latex
  • Heavy metals
  • Parabens
  • 26 allergens

But why does this matter?

  • Chlorine

    You might have seen ‘totally chlorine-free’ displayed on certain diaper packs. Firstly, that’s a great thing, because chlorine bleaching wreaks havoc on the environment. Many diapers use chlorine bleaching, so finding a diaper that stays away from this process completely is ideal. You might see diapers labeled ‘elemental chlorine-free. This is a little better than nothing, but totally chlorine-free is the best choice. 

    It’s often included to make diapers more absorbent, but there are more earth-friendly ways of doing this.

    While most plant-based diapers avoid chlorine altogether, Earth and Eden diapers are free of elemental chlorine. This is better than nothing, but it’s a shame they do use chlorine in their manufacturing process.
  • Phthalates

    I’m not sure why the use of phthalates isn’t regulated when it comes to baby diapers, considering the potential health risks. These chemicals are found in all kinds of everyday products, like baby toys, diapers, and flooring1. If you’ve never heard of them, it’s no surprise. Diaper companies don’t shout about their use, and there’s a reason why. 

    Exposure to these chemicals has been linked to eczema and asthma2 in little ones, along with abnormal genital development in young boys. A study in the Journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics says that children’s exposure to phthalates is common. They could therefore be more vulnerable to their toxicity, so they’re best avoided completely. 

    Earth and Eden diapers are completely free of phthalates, thankfully.
  • Fragrances

    Another completely unnecessary addition to many baby diapers is fragrances. In fact, the term can be used by diaper brands to cover up a smorgasbord of chemicals. Again, the label isn’t regulated by the FDA!

    These hidden toxins can irritate your baby’s skin, so it’s no wonder diaper rash is such a common issue. What’s even more worrying is that they could contribute to respiratory problems. Suffice to say, look for fragrance-free diapers if you can!

    Earth and Eden diapers are completely free of fragrances, as you’d expect from a company that prioritizes the health of our little ones.
  • Latex

    Allergies to latex are quite common in children, so it’s best to look for diapers that stay away from it. Earth and Eden diapers are completely free of latex.
  • Heavy metal inks

    It might be tempting to choose the brand with the cutest designs, but they’re completely unnecessary and, actually, potentially harmful. Many inks and dyes used in baby diapers contain heavy metal inks, which can irritate your baby’s skin and might even cause allergic reactions. It’s best to look for brands that either avoid prints completely or use water-based inks. 

    Earth and Eden diapers feature prints made with water-based inks and no heavy metals.

Are Earth and Eden diapers biodegradable?

It’s never been more important to consider the environmental impact of our everyday products – disposable diapers especially. We throw away 20 billion diapers every year just in the US. And, considering it takes a few hundred years for conventional plastic disposables to break down (if they ever do), reducing the number of plastic-heavy diapers we use is a great way to help the planet. 

The best diapers for the world around us are those which use mainly plant-based materials, stay away from chemicals, and are biodegradable. Biodegradable diapers can be broken down far easier than plastic ones, and won’t release harmful toxins into the atmosphere as they go. 

Related Post: Top Picks for the Best Biodegradable Diapers on the Market

But it can be confusing…

Just because a diaper states it’s ‘plant-based’, that doesn’t mean it’s necessarily biodegradable. If a diaper is biodegradable, the brand will make it super clear. It’s a great selling point, after all. 

Sometimes biodegradable diapers can even be composted, either using a professional service or at home. Not all biodegradable diapers can be composted, but companies will make it clear if they can be. Check out my ultimate guide to biodegradable diapers for more information!

Earth and Eden diapers aren’t biodegradable. But they are made with sustainably sourced materials and they’re produced in a zero waste to landfill facility, which is fantastic news for the planet. And they’re a great price at about 25 cents per diaper (depending on the size you need), so they’re a great alternative for eco-minded parents and carers looking for budget diapers.

Where are Earth and Eden diapers made?

Earth and Eden diapers are made in the US.

How well do Earth and Eden diapers work?

Earth and Eden diapers don’t just do their bit for the planet, but it looks like they’re pretty good at preventing leaks too! Ultimately, a diaper’s got to work, no matter how earth-friendly it is. In fact, Earth and Eden diapers claim to be more absorbent than Pampers Swaddlers, a popular choice for newborns, and up to 10x drier than Huggies Little Movers. 

They offer up to 12 hours of leak protection with a breathable outer cover to keep your baby’s skin dry. Their cotton layer and hypoallergenic inner liner keep your little one comfortable.

Earth and Eden say their diapers fit securely, while their soft stretchy waists let your baby wriggle around to their heart’s content. 

Earth and Eden diapers Size Chart 

Earth and Eden diapers are available in newborn size through size 7, so they’re great for all stages of the diapering journey!

SizeWeight
NewbornUp to 10lbs
Size 18-14lbs
Size 212-18lbs
Size 316-28lbs
Size 422-37lbs
Size 527lbs+
Size 635lbs+
Size 741lbs+

Where to buy Earth and Eden diapers?  

Where do you look if you want to try these budget-friendly eco diapers? There’s only one place… they’re exclusive to Amazon, which stocks the full range of sizes at a great price.

Amazon’s a great place to buy your baby diapers. If you’ve never heard of the Amazon Family Program, it’s definitely worth checking it out. It’s free for Prime members and gives you access to exclusive discounts on family products, parenting tips, and up to 20% off the baby diaper and baby food subscriptions. 

How much are Earth and Eden diapers?

One of the main issues with eco-friendly diapers is the price. It’s not always the case, but some premium eco diapers will often cost significantly more than their budget counterparts. While this is for a good reason – it costs more to use fewer chemicals and natural ingredients – it’s not always good news for our bank balances. And we have plenty to pay for when babies arrive…

Earth and Eden might not be the gold standard when it comes to planet-friendly diapers (they’re not biodegradable), but they’re a great choice for eco-conscious parents and carers looking for budget-friendly alternatives.

In fact, their prices are comparable to some super-budget-friendly companies like Mama Bear Gentle Touch. Their pack of 176 size 1 diapers will set you back just under 30 bucks. That’s about 17 cents per diaper. Size 4 diapers will cost you about 26 cents per diaper and this rises to 40 cents per diaper for a pack of size 6s. The bigger sizes may cost more (which is the case with pretty much all brands), but these prices really are great for plant-based diapers.

I’m impressed.

What do reviews say?

It seems I’m not the only one impressed with Earth and Eden diapers. Looking at reviews on Amazon, they average an amazing 4.6 out of 5 in over 7,600 reviews. It’s safe to say they’re tried, tested, and loved!

Parents say these diapers are great at preventing leaks and they’re great for preventing diaper rash too. Other users say they’re super soft and silky on their little one’s skin and they’re even great for overnight use.

FAQ about Earth + Eden Diapers

1. How do Earth and Eden diapers compare to Honest diapers?

Earth and Eden and Honest diapers are very similar. It looks like Earth and Eden, actually owned by Amazon, were produced to take on the popularity of Honest diapers, so it’s no surprise!

Earth + Eden DiapersHonest Diapers
Made withFluff pulpFluff pulp
Free fromElemental chlorine, fragrances, lotions, phthalates, heavy metal inks, latexChlorine, fragrances, lotions, phthalates, heavy metal inks, latex
Biodegradable?NoNo
PriceAbout 26 cents per diaper (size 4, on Amazon)About 42 cents per diaper(size 4, in Target)
Reviews4.6 out of 5 (on Amazon’s site)3.8 out of 5 (on Target’s site)

*Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.

Despite the similarities, it looks like Earth and Eden’s reviews are a little better than Honest’s. Plus, they seem to be a little cheaper on average, so they might be the better option if you’re looking for diapers on a budget. 

Related Post: Honest Diapers Review: Honestly? They Don’t Live Up To The Hype

2. How do Earth and Eden Diapers compare to Pampers?

Earth and Eden claim their diapers are more absorbent than Pampers Swaddlers, which are a popular choice for newborn babies. 

Earth and Eden DiapersPampers Swaddlers Diapers
Made withFluff pulpPetrolem-based plastics
Free fromElemental chlorine, fragrances, lotions, phthalates, heavy metal inks, latexLatex
Biodegradable?NoNo
PriceAbout 26 cents per diaper (size 4, on Amazon)About 33 cents per diaper(size 4, in Target)
Reviews4.6 out of 5 (on Amazon’s site)4.8 out of 5 (on Target’s site)

*Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.

It’s clear that Earth and Eden’s diapers are heaps better for your baby, for the planet, and for your bank balance. Brands like Pampers and Huggies really need to step up to the plate when it comes to toxin-free, eco-conscious diapers. Unlike Earth and Eden, who stay away from harmful toxins and use sustainable materials, Pampers Swaddlers (like most of their varieties) contain chemicals and don’t make any effort to use plant-based materials. 

Related Post: Huggies Vs. Pampers 2022: Which Is The Best Diaper Brand For Your Baby?

Earth and Eden clearly come out on top, although they need to get rid of the chlorine to be considered truly eco-friendly. 

3. Is the umbilical cord cut out on size N shaped like Huggies or Pampers?

Earth and Eden’s diapers feature an umbilical cord cutout on sizes newborn and 1 that is similar to Huggies. It’s also important to make sure you clean the umbilical cord area properly and avoid tight clothing. 

4. Are Earth and Eden diapers non-toxic?

For a diaper to be truly non-toxic, it should be free of the harshest chemicals that are often added to diapers. These include chlorine, phthalates, fragrances, lotions, dyes made with heavy metals, and latex. 

More on this topic: Disposable Diapers: What Are They Made From, And Are They Safe?

Earth and Eden steer clear of all toxins apart from chlorine, which is a huge shame. They’re elemental chlorine-free, which is certainly better than nothing, but the diapers which are best for the planet avoid chlorine altogether.

Check out my guide to the best non-toxic diapers for more information!

5. Are eco-friendly diapers Worth It?

Yes, yes and yes. 

Switching from conventional plastic diapers to plant-based diapers is an amazing thing to do, both for your little one and for the world. 

Plant-based, non-toxic diapers are gentler on your baby’s skin, and materials like bamboo, wood, and cane (what plant-based diapers are often made with) are much more sustainable than plastic. It kinda goes without saying…

The best of the best eco-friendly diapers are undoubtedly biodegradable diapers. That’s because they’ll decompose a heck of a lot quicker and some can even be composted, which means they don’t need to head to landfill like the majority of disposables. 

Earth and Eden diapers aren’t biodegradable, but they are produced in a zero waste to landfill facility. Many companies like Earth and Eden are taking extra steps to support the environment, from Attitude’s reforestation efforts to Dyper’s carbon offsetting!

Related Post: Dyper Diapers Review: Eco-Friendly, Skin-Friendly And Bank Account-Friendly

Read Full Review: Attitude Diapers, Reviewed: Plant-Based, Non-Toxic And Changing The Diaper Game

Earth and Eden diapers alternatives

So what are the alternatives to Earth and Eden diapers? While it’s great that they’re free of toxins and plant-based, the ultimate mark of an eco-friendly diaper is whether it’s biodegradable. 

If I’ve not already mentioned, I like biodegradable diapers… If they’re compostable, even better!

Some of my favorite biodegradable diapers include Eco Pea, Eco Boom, and Dyper. These diapers happen to be compostable too, and completely free of harmful toxins. Companies like this often go even further to minimize their impact on the planet. Dyper, for example, packs their diapers in biodegradable packaging and buy carbon offsets with every diaper purchase. Talk about setting the standard.

The next best diapers are those which, like Earth and Eden, don’t use unnecessary chemicals and use predominantly plant-based materials. Hello Bello and Eco by Naty are two of my favorite non-toxic diapers. They’re not biodegradable, but they are of great value. Plus, Hello Bello’s diapers are delivered in boxes that transform into playthings for kids, like pirate ships and robots. 

Related Post: Eco Pea Diapers Review: Super Soft, Sustainable And Saving The Planet

Conclusion: Are Earth and Eden Diapers worth it?

Pros

  • Great price
  • Great for sensitive skin
  • Elemental chlorine-free
  • Latex and paraben-free
  • Lotion free
  • Fragrance-free
  • Cruelty-free
  • Printed with water-based inks
  • Made with SFI (Sustainable Forestry Initiative) certified sustainably sourced fluff
  • Produced in a zero waste to landfill facility
  • Made in the US
  • Up to 12 hours of leakage protection
  • Fantastic reviews

Cons

  • Not biodegradable
  • Not totally chlorine-free

The bottom line

If you’re looking for earth-friendly diapers that won’t break the bank, you’ve found ‘em. Earth and Eden diapers are gentle on baby’s skin, free of most harsh toxins, and made with sustainable materials. They’re not totally chlorine-free, which is a shame. And they’re also not biodegradable – the ultimate mark of an earth-friendly diaper – but they’re perfect for eco-conscious parents on a budget. 

References

  1. Hannon, P.R./ & flaws, J.A. (2015). The effects of phthalates on the ovary. Frontiers in endocrinology, 6
  2. Jaakkola, J. J., & Khinght, T. L. (2008). The role of exposure to phthlates from polyvinyl chloride products in the development of asthma and allergies: a systematic review and metaanalysis. Environ Health Perspect, 116(7), 845-53.

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