Cloth diapering has experienced a resurgence in recent years as more parents seek eco-friendly alternatives to disposable diapers. Beyond its environmental benefits, cloth diapering offers cost savings and the opportunity to customize diapering options for your baby.
I started cloth diapering my daughter at around nine months old. However, if I were able I would have started from day one.
If you’re considering cloth diapering but don’t know where to start, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get started with confidence.
Why Choose Cloth Diapers?
The decision to use cloth diapers often stems from environmental concerns and a desire to reduce waste.
I chose to cloth diaper my daughter because it is a healthier alternative that also allows me to save time and money. The cloth diapers that I use are washable and reusable and can be repurposed once worn out for another use. The worst case scenario is that the diapers decompose in my compost within months. The diapers would then be given another life of sorts once composted to feed the plants in my garden. This is what I mean when I say I strive to live a conscious (w)holistic lifestyle. It is a lifestyle that takes into mind all aspects and beings for the best solution.
Disposable diapers contribute significantly to landfill waste and can take hundreds of years to decompose. Cloth diapers, on the other hand, are reusable and can be used for multiple children or repurposed after their diapering days.
In addition to being eco-friendly, cloth diapers can also be more economical over time, especially if you plan to use them for subsequent children or invest in quality diapers that last.
Types of Cloth Diapers
- Prefolds and Covers:
- Prefold diapers are rectangular pieces of absorbent cloth that require folding and securing with a cover. Covers can be made of waterproof material like polyurethane laminate (PUL) or wool.
- This traditional method is versatile and cost-effective.
- All-in-Ones (AIOs):
- AIO diapers are similar in design to disposable diapers, with an absorbent inner layer sewn into a waterproof outer layer.
- They are convenient but may take longer to dry and tend to be more expensive.
- Pocket Diapers:
- Pocket diapers consist of a waterproof shell with a pocket where absorbent inserts can be stuffed.
- They allow for customizable absorbency but may require stuffing before use.
- Hybrid Diapers:
- Hybrid diapers combine reusable covers with either washable or disposable inserts.
- They offer flexibility for different situations, such as travel or daycare.
Getting Started with Cloth Diapering
1. Research and Preparation
Before diving into cloth diapering, research different types of cloth diapers to find the best fit for your lifestyle and budget. Consider factors such as ease of use, maintenance requirements, and compatibility with your baby’s needs.
This may seem somewhat controversial but the initial diapers that I used fro my daughter were gifted from a local buy nothing group on Facebook. Buy nothing groups are community groups where people donate items that they would ordinarily donate or sell. This allows for items to be recirculated into the community many times over. One of the only stipulations in these groups are that you cannot resell these items and must pay it forward by regifting what you can’t use or when you are done with the item.
I didn’t have any extra income to invest in cloth diapers when I started but I knew it was something that I was very interested in. As a result, there was a mom in the group who was gracious to donate me a huge set completely for free and even guided me through the step by step process.
I prefer to use prefolds with a cover and a disposable liner on top to catch poop.
2. Building Your Cloth Diaper Stash
Start with a small assortment of diapers to determine what works best for you and your baby before investing in a larger stash. Aim for about 12-24 diapers, depending on how often you plan to do laundry.
3. Essential Accessories
- Wet Bags: Waterproof bags for storing soiled diapers when you’re on the go.
- Diaper Pail: A dedicated pail or wet bag for storing dirty diapers at home.
- Diaper Sprayer: Optional but helpful for rinsing solid waste off diapers before washing.
4. Prepping Cloth Diapers
Most cloth diapers require prepping before their first use to enhance absorbency. This usually involves washing them several times to remove natural oils and increase absorbency.
You can skip this step if you’re using a donated pair.
5. Diaper Changing Routine
Develop a diaper changing routine that works for you. Whether you choose to use liners, inserts, or change the entire diaper, consistency will help streamline the process.
6. Washing and Care
Follow manufacturer instructions for washing cloth diapers. Generally, this involves a cold rinse cycle followed by a hot wash cycle with a detergent specifically formulated for cloth diapers. Avoid fabric softeners and bleach, as they can reduce absorbency and damage materials.
When I first started I used stain removal spray from dreft, soaked the diapers in detergent and then washed them. However, nearly a year in I forgo all that and toss the washers in a warm/hot cycle and hang to dry. To get stains out I put the prefolds and covers outside in the sun while wet and wait for a few hours. They end up goood as new, no stains.
7. Handling Challenges
Expect a learning curve when starting with cloth diapers. Leaks and fit issues can occur initially but can often be resolved with adjustments in fit or absorbency. Reach out to online communities or local diapering groups for support and troubleshooting tips.
Conclusion
Cloth diapering offers a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to disposable diapers, with benefits that extend beyond environmental impact. By choosing cloth diapers, you not only reduce waste but also have the opportunity to customize your diapering routine to fit your family’s needs. With the right information and preparation, cloth diapering can be a rewarding choice for both you and your baby.
Whether you opt for prefolds, pocket diapers, or hybrids, embracing cloth diapering is a step towards a more conscious and eco-friendly parenting journey. Start small, learn as you go, and enjoy the benefits of cloth diapering with your little one.Remember, every cloth diaper changed is a small but impactful step towards a greener future for our children and generations to come.
