Before disposable diapers, people used a variety of natural and readily available materials to serve the same purpose.
Babies were wrapped in a range of absorbent and protective materials, depending on the region and available resources. These included:
- Milkweed leaves: Used for their absorbent properties.
- Animal skins: Provided a waterproof layer.
- Moss: Served as a natural absorbent material.
- Linens: Reusable and washable fabric.
- Other natural resources: Varying by region and climate.
In Europe, swaddling with linen was also a common practice, acting as a form of diaper. Linen was wrapped around the baby's limbs and body for both warmth and containment. These methods, while different from modern diapers, served the essential functions of protecting babies from the elements and preventing the spread of germs.
