For some, choosing to use cloth diapers is a no-brainer, but I had a ton of questions before diving in. The way we think about cloth diapering has really changed since our grandparents’ era. Back then, many women found it to be a tedious chore and gladly switched to disposable diapers when they became available.
Luckily, cloth diapers have come a long way! With modern washing machines, innovative fabrics, and tons of online resources, it’s much easier now. But I understand cloth diapering isn’t for everyone, so if you’re interested in disposable options that are eco-friendly, check out my suggestions at the end of this post.
I admit, despite my preference for natural and organic solutions in other aspects of parenting, I was late to start cloth diapering. Looking back, I regret not starting sooner. I used disposables for my first two kids, thinking cloth diapers were just an outdated necessity filled with horror stories of rinsing them in the toilet and endless laundry.
However, eventually, after encouragement from some friends, I tried cloth diapering and fell in love with it! Here are my top reasons for making the switch:
1. Less Chemical Exposure: It’s nice to know my baby isn’t exposed to the chemicals found in plastic disposable diapers, like chlorine and polyacrylate, which aren’t really proven safe for babies.
2. Cost Savings: Diapering a child with disposables could cost about $2,000 and contributes around 6,000 diapers to landfills. You can get a good stash of quality cloth diapers for under $500, lasting through multiple kids if maintained well. It’s even possible to cloth diaper on a budget of around $100.
3. Fewer Diaper Rashes: My cloth-diapered kids haven’t had any diaper rashes, while with disposables, it was a common issue, especially with brands like Huggies and most generics. Pampers were better, but also more expensive.
4. Better Containment: Cloth diapers, especially if you use a cover over a disposable for rare occasions, do a fantastic job containing messes.
5. Early Potty Training: Kids tend to potty train faster with cloth diapers since they feel wetness more distinctly. And frankly, the motivation to wash fewer diapers helps too!
6. Cute Designs: Cloth diapers are adorable. They come in various colors and patterns that make them fun to use.
Over the years, cloth diapering has improved significantly. New parents today benefit from numerous options compared to ancient times when resources were limited. There’s also great support online if you don’t have local friends who cloth diaper.
The different types of cloth diapers include:
– Cotton/cover systems: Affordable and simple, these require a PUL or wool cover. Flats and prefolds are inexpensive and easy to clean but need learning different folds.
– Fitted Diapers: More contoured with elastic legs, they fit snugly and come in fun colors too, but still need a cover.
– Pocket Diapers: My go-to choice featuring a waterproof outer, and a space for absorbent liners. They resemble disposables and are easy to adjust as your baby grows.
– Hybrid Systems: Combine disposable liners with fabric covers—options like Flip by BumGenius.
– All-In-Ones (AIOs): The simplest as everything is sewn together; no stuffing required—ideal for dads and daycare.
Given all the options, the number of diapers you’ll need depends on your washing routine. As a general guide, for infants, it’s recommended to have 24-36 diapers, and for toddlers, 18-24.
You won’t need much else apart from a diaper pail, a few waterproof pail liners, and maybe a sprayer for easier cleaning. Wet pail and dry pail methods are ways to store soiled diapers, with most favoring the dry method for its convenience.
Washing does depend on your circumstances, such as the type of diapers, your laundry setup, and so on. Check manufacturer guidelines to prevent build-up and ensure longevity.
If you’re thinking about cloth diapering but are hesitant, there are great online communities to support you with answers and advice. But if cloth isn’t right for everyone, don’t worry. There are now plenty of eco-friendly disposable options as well.
Have you thought about using cloth diapers? If you have, what kind do you prefer?