Ebay’s Policy on Used Cloth Diapers

Tiff alerted me to Ebay’s relatively new policy disallowing the sale of used cloth diapers. I should clarify: truly, it’s not a new policy so much as it is a reinterpretation of Ebay’s policy on used clothing and adult/mature content both of which disallow the sale of used underwear.

In running a quick search for EUC Cloth Diapers or EUC Fuzzi Bunz, you can still see that a few sellers haven’t been caught quite yet–but it’s just a matter of time.

Needless to say, I’m disappointed for many reasons. Cloth diapers, though less expensive in the long run, tend to cost quite a bit up front especially if you’re using anything but prefolds or flats. An all-in-one can run at least $20 each, and are often priced a bit higher. It can be expensive–at first.

Many parents, ourselves included, have purchased used cloth diapers with the intention of reusing them and selling them again if they’re still in good condition. Properly laundered clothing–including properly laundered diapers–are perfectly hygienic.

It’s unfortunate that such a big avenue like Ebay for reusing and repurposing is closed. Fortunately, there’s several places online that still allow swapping or selling of used diapers.

If you’re still interested in swapping, buying, selling or giving away used cloth diapers, try these sites:

• Diaper Swappers
• MDC’s Trading Post (You must be an MDC member with a post count of at least 150, I think, to participate.)
• Diaper Pin
• Mama Barter Yahoo! Group
• The Baby Wearer Swap Board
• Craigs List
• Freecycle
• Cyster Sales (Must be a member of SoulCysters)

You can also sign this online petition requesting Ebay amend their rules and start allowing sales of used dipes again. I doubt the efficacy of online petitions, but it’s definitely worth a shot!

March 22nd, 2007