How to Start Cloth Diapering (It's Easy, We Promise!)
Discover practical tips and tricks that make cloth diapering a seamless experience. Whether you're a new parent or considering a switch, this guide will empower you to embark on a successful cloth
How to Start Cloth Diapering (It's Easy, We Promise!)
Are you considering making the switch from disposable diapers to cloth diapers? If so, you’re in luck! Cloth diapering is much easier to do than many people think. In this blog post, we’ll be discussing how easy it can be to make the switch from disposable diapers to cloth diapers. We’ll provide you with helpful tips and tricks to make your cloth diapering journey a success. So if you’re ready to make the switch, let’s get started!
Do your research
When it comes to cloth diapering, doing your research is the best way to ensure you make the right decisions for you and your baby. Cloth diapering can be affordable, safe, and eco-friendly for both you and your little one. It is important to know all of the different systems available and to figure out which one fits your lifestyle the best. There are pocket diapers, all-in-one diapers, and hybrid systems to name a few. Do some online research, ask other cloth diapering parents for advice, and read reviews about different brands and products before making any major purchases.
Choose your system
When it comes to cloth diapering, there are a few different systems to choose from. It’s important to find the right one for you and your baby, as each system is slightly different in terms of affordability, simplicity, and convenience.
The most popular type of cloth diaper is the all-in-one diaper. These diapers are convenient because you don’t have to assemble them before use; just put them on your baby and you’re ready to go. All-in-one diapers typically have built-in absorbency and may include features such as waterproof covers and adjustable sizing. However, they tend to be more expensive than other types of diapers, and your baby may outgrow the absorbency.
A pocket diaper system consists of a waterproof cover, an absorbent inner lining, and an insert that you stuff into the pocket. These diapers can be customized depending on the absorbency level you need and they come in a variety of sizes. Pocket diapers are usually more affordable than all-in-one diapers and still provide a safe and eco-friendly option.
If you want to keep costs down even further, then pre-fold or flat diapers might be the way to go. These diapers require folding before use and are secured with pins or a Snappi fastener. Prefold or flat diapers are considered very safe and eco-friendly since they require minimal washing and drying. They also tend to be the most affordable option.
No matter which type of cloth diaper system you choose, it’s important to remember that it takes some trial and error to find the best fit for you and your baby. Take some time to read reviews and ask other parents for their advice to ensure you make the best decision for your family. Invest in a couple different styles, before going all in on a single style.
Buy your supplies
Once you've decided what system to use, you'll need to buy your stash. When buying diapers, look for companies that are CPSIA-compliant. make sure you're purchasing from a company that makes good quality diapers that will last through multiple washings and wearings, you can do this by reading reviews. Many brands offer eco-friendly options, such as organic cotton (OEKO TEK), hemp, or bamboo materials. Look for reusable liners made from fabrics like fleece or athletic wicking jersey and covers made from breathable materials like PUL or wool. Finally, make sure you have enough wet bags and other storage solutions to hold your dirty diapers until washing day. With the right supplies, you'll be ready to start cloth diapering in no time!
Prepare your diapers
Once you have gathered all of your supplies, it’s time to get your diapers ready for use. Depending on what type of cloth diaper system you chose, this may look different. However, generally speaking, it is a good idea to pre-wash your cloth diapers and covers to remove natural oils, additives, and residues that can cause them to repel moisture rather than absorb it. To prepare your diapers, follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer.
For eco-friendly washing, use a mild detergent that is free of dyes and fragrances as these can damage the fibers of your diapers. Tide seems to be the most popular among cloth diaper families. To reduce the amount of energy used, wash your diapers in cold water on the delicate cycle and avoid fabric softeners. Once the wash cycle is complete, you can dry your inserts on high heat and hang your pockets or covers to dry for best results.
By preparing your diapers properly you can ensure that they will be ready for use and perform optimally when your baby arrives. With proper care and maintenance, your diapers can provide a comfortable and eco-friendly solution for diapering your little one until potty training.
Use and care for your diapers
Using cloth diapers is a great way to save money and be ecofriendly. To get the most out of your cloth diapers, there are a few things you should know.
1. Change your baby's diaper as soon as it gets wet or soiled. It is best practice to change your baby's diaper every two to three hours.
2. Clean the diaper as soon as possible after use. Start by rinsing off any solid waste in the toilet (having a bidet attached to your toilet is a huge help) and then place the diaper in a diaper pail or wetbag.
3. Wash your diapers at least once a week to avoid mold and insect growth. When washing your diapers, use a cloth-friendly detergent with no added scents, dyes, or fabric softeners. Be sure to check your water hardness. Your wash routine may look different than someone else's, but that is okay. After the wash cycle is complete, double-check that all snaps, buttons, and velcro closures are secure before drying.
4. Line dry or tumble dry on low heat. High temperatures can damage your cloth diapers, so line drying or air drying is best. However, if you must use a dryer, make sure it is set on low heat and remove your diapers as soon as they are dry to avoid any potential damage from heat exposure. Following these steps should help ensure that your cloth diapers remain in top condition for years to come!
Troubleshooting
If you're having any issues with cloth diapering, don't worry—it's common and can be fixed with a few simple steps. First, make sure you’re using cloth-friendly detergent without any softeners or heavy fragrances. It’s best to avoid fabric softeners, as they may cause your diapers to become less absorbent and begin repelling over time. If your diapers are not coming clean, and you're getting a barnyard-like stink. You may need to strip your diapers. (add link to blog on stripping diapers)
Sometimes leaks happen with cloth diapers, but this can usually be avoided by making sure you have the right size settings on your diaper and a proper fit for coverage on the leg openings. You may also want to look into different types of inserts that will provide more absorbency.
In the event of a diaper rash, you should make sure to change your baby’s diaper every two hours. Diaper rash could be a sign of detergent buildup or a detergent allergy. You may want to consider switching to a different detergent.