DIAPER

A diaper or nappy refers to an absorbent garment which is worn by individuals who cannot control their bowel movements or bladder and cannot use a toilet. In case diapers become soiled changing is required and it is carried out by a secondary person such as a caregiver or parent. In case a diaper is not changed on a regular basis it can lead to diaper rash.

Cloth diapers comprise of layers of fabric such as hemp, cotton, bamboo or microfiber and it can be washed and reused several times. Disposable diapers comprise of absorbent chemicals which can be thrown away after use. To avoid leakage, plastic pants can be worn but with the advent of modern cloth diapers, there is no such requirement.

Diapers are generally worn by children who have not been potty trained or are suffering from bedwetting. It can even be worn by adults suffering from incontinence or cases where toilet is unavailable. It can even include adults with physical or mental disability or people working in extreme conditions such as astronauts.

One of the alternatives of diapers is elimination communication or infant potty training method. These methods are common in third world countries where citizens cannot buy baby diapers.