Even though you’re a busy, working momma, you can still achieve cloth diapering success!
Congratulations on deciding to cloth diaper! Cloth diapering has to be one of the best-kept secrets in motherhood. It may require a few extra steps, but the benefits far outweigh the downsides. Even with working 40-plus hours a week, I still find the time to cloth diaper successfully, and you can too!
I’ll be honest in saying when I first got started cloth diapering I was overwhelmed. I wasn’t sure exactly what I needed or how cloth diapering worked. I wasn’t even sure how to put on the diapers! For the struggling momma, I figured it would be helpful to make a quick guide filled with everything you need to successfully cloth diaper.
This blog post is about cloth diapering success!
Types of cloth diapers
There are several types of cloth diapers. Do not be intimated by different kinds and brands.
Just like there are various brands of disposable diapers, the same is true for cloth diapers. Each type of diaper is a little different and there may be several brands for a specific type.
Prefolds and Flats
Prefolds
Flats
This is what comes to mind when most people think of cloth diapers! They’re traditional in style and require a little work on your end. You’ll be responsible for folding the flats and adding pins, Velcro, or snaps to your prefolds.
Fitted
These diapers are already folded and ready to wear. They’re elastic around the legs to contain leaks, but you’ll need a diaper cover to make these waterproof.
Pocket Diapers
Pocket diapers are my personal favorite. These diapers contain a waterproof outer layer and a removable cloth in the back. You can choose microfiber inserts or charcoal inserts for extra absorbency. Generally, the microfiber inserts are sold with the pocket diapers. The charcoal inserts can be purchased separately or added with an upgrade.
All-In-One Diapers
These diapers are just what they sound like – all in one. These diapers are similar to the fitted diapers but already come with a waterproof diaper cover attached. Most people choose these diapers because they don’t require any extra steps – no adding an outer cover and no stuffing pockets. These diapers tend to be a bit more expensive and they take a very long time to dry.
Hybrid
These diapers are also called All-In-Twos. They’re like an All-In-One diaper plus a pocket diaper.
Cloth diaper items you need
- Your choice of cloth diapers
- Wet bag
- Wipes – you can also choose to use reusable wipes!
- Diaper Liners – if you are exclusively breastfeeding, you won’t need these until your baby starts solids. You can also opt for a sprayer to be a zero-waste cloth diaper momma.
Where to buy cloth diapers
Do not get overwhelmed by all the different types of cloth diapers and various places you can buy them.
Think of it like this…there are various types of disposable diapers and you can buy each of those types of diapers at hundreds of different stores. It’s the same concept here.
Window shop until you find what you like and don’t be afraid to buy one or two of one type of brand until you find the kind you and your baby prefer.
- Second-hand baby store
- A friend (or a friend of a friend!)
- Amazon
- Target
- Walmart
- Alva Baby
- Thirsties
- Bum Genius
- Charlie Banana
- And many more…
Cloth diapering tips
- Diapers should be changed every 2-3 hours.
- Diapers should be washed every 2-3 days.
- It’s not all or nothing. You can supplement cloth diapering with disposable diapers.
- No matter the diaper type, disposable or cloth, there will be blowouts, but you got this!
- Prevent leaks by securing the diaper well and changing the diaper frequently.
- Wash diapers for a normal cycle on hot, followed by a quick cycle on cold with a small amount of baby detergent.
- Dry diapers in the washing machine or line dry. Note: Fitted and all-in-one diapers tend to have longer drying time.
- You’ll need 18-24 diapers for your stash.
- Once your baby starts solids their poop will change. They’ll either need diaper liners to add to their diaper or you’ll need to use a spray attachment to rinse the poop into the toilet before washing.
- Diapers are adjustable to grow with the baby in time. It will take time to adjust to fitting the diapers correctly on your baby, but you’ll get the hang of it!
I hope you enjoyed this blog post about cloth diapering success!
Cloth diapering can be overwhelming, but the best way to overcome the overwhelm is to get started. Just like with parenting, we learn by doing.
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