Cloth diapering has evolved over the past couple decades and has emerged as an easy, economical, ecological way to diaper our babies. The biggest change being the easy part, but they are truly that, easy. Although the older style of flat diapers are still available for those who prefer them, a whole new breed of easy to use diapers are now on the market as well. There’s AIO’s (All-in-ones), fitted, and my personal favorite, pocket diapers, among many others.
When trying to decide on what type of diaper will work best for you and your baby I recommend doing your research and then trying an assortment of what appeals to you the most. Once you have tried the diapers the choice is much easier. My personal favorite is the pocket diapers, but I also use AIO’s, fitted diapers, and prefolds. I love pocket diapers because they wick the moisture away from babies bums, and they will also last all night for many babies. Look at the weight and size range of each diaper as well, this will help you estimate how long your baby can wear them for.
Once you’ve decided on what diaper you would like to stock your baby’s room with, next is the ordering and care. I recommend having 24 diapers to begin with, you can always order more if needed. That should last you roughly two days in the newborn stage. You will also need to prewash your diapers. They become more absorbent as they are washed, so washing a couple times is probably a good idea.
General care of your cloth diapers is pretty basic. I recommend using the dry pail method, which basically consists of a pail and a liner. With pocket diapers, take out the insert then toss both parts in to the pail. If the diaper is soiled simply shake the solids in to the toilet, then diaper in pail. Sometimes it’s not always shakable and in that case I would hold on to the back end edge (or corner) of the diaper and swish in the toilet water to get all the somewhat solids off, then put in to the pail. I would bring the pail or liner in to the washroom when doing this to eliminate any mess.
Wash your diapers generally every 1-2 days in cold water using a basic unscented detergent. The reason to wash with cold first is because hot water will set a nasty stain. If you notice that they might need a little extra washing, do an extra wash on hot following the cold wash. Most diapers can go in the dryer on warm/hot except for some covers (follow instructions that come with product). A couple things to avoid are the use of bleach and the use of any fabric softener. Bleach is not good for your babies bums and will eat away at your diaper material, and fabric softener will leave a coating which will cause your diaper to repel liquid instead of absorb it.
Good luck in your cloth diapering journey!
