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Elimination Communication 101

2023-07-05 Mama Minimalist

Spoiler alert: Disposable diapers are terrible for the planet. They account for about 2% of all landfill waste in the US; worse – because they’re made of plastics – they decompose very, very slowly. Before their arrival on the commercial scene in the 1960s babies were fully potty trained by 18 months. But thanks to this “convenient” option, these days the average potty training age is 3 years. Enter elimination communication.

On today’s show Andrea Olson explains the ways in which diaper companies play on our fears of being bad parents to push their single-use products; she also breaks down the steps she took to get her children out of diapers in half the time with the elimination communication method.

Here’s a preview:

[4:45] Thoughts on intentionality in potty training as being better for both our children and the planet they will inherit

[9:00] A history of potty training: What did humans do before disposable diapers?

[16:00] Addressing common criticisms: Does elimination communication have adverse effects on a child’s development?

[24:00] So how does it work, exactly?

Resources mentioned:

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[5:00] Reflections on the shift from the early days of AIM and MySpace to the current user experience that often feels designed against us

[8:45] How being always on has eroded our collective sense of peace and altered the dynamics of modern family life

[18:00] How to stop checking in and start being present

[23:00] A candid look at 2026 internet culture, from shopping hauls to harmful beauty standards. Can we still find corners of the web that align with our true values?

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Resources mentioned:

This episode is sponsored by Fearless Finance. Use code SUSTAINABLE to get $50 off your first meeting.
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My Story

Hello there, I’m Stephanie. I live a crazy, beautiful life as a full-time wife, blogger + mother to two spirited daughters. I’m on a mission to simplify eco-friendly living so as to greater enjoy life’s sweeter moments.

Want to know more? Read my story.