Learn How to Use Cloth Diapers
How to Use Cloth Diapers
Cloth diapers are back in style and these days they are easier to use than ever before. Not only are they easy, they are adorable! Today’s cloth diapers take full advantage of modern fabrics, snaps and Velcro-style closures, and cute prints. No more dunking, no more pins, no more hassles. Cloth diapers are easy and economical. Come along as I show you all the basics of how to use cloth diapers.
At the simplest level, a cloth diaper needs to have an absorbent layer and a waterproof layer. There are a handful of different styles (though there are many variations on those!). All of the styles basically come down to that, absorbent and waterproof.
Choosing Cloth Diapers
There are 6 basic styles of cloth diapers:
* Prefold or Flat diapers with Waterproof Covers. These are usually cotton and either square or rectangular. Just fold to fit and put a cloth diaper cover on top. You can use pins, a Snappi diaper fastener, or just fold the diaper to fit inside the cover. These are usually the most economical way to get started with cloth diapering.
* Fitted Diapers and Waterproof Cloth Diaper Covers. Fitted diapers are absorbent, just like prefolds, but they have fasteners at the waist and elastic at the legs. They require a waterproof cover to hold in moisture. If you choose wool covers, these are the most environmentally friendly.
* Pocket Diapers. These diapers have a pocket opening to hold the absorbent insert. The inner lining is usually made with a wicking material that allows moisture to go through to the insert, but baby’s skin feels dry even when the diaper is wet. These are perhaps the most popular option, since they are fast to wash and dry as well as being convenient to use.
* All in One Diapers. These diapers have the absorbent insert sewn in, so there is no stuffing or folding required. They are “all in one.” These are perhaps the most convenient option and are popular with those who are unfamiliar with cloth diapers.
* All in 2. These diapers have a snap in or other attachable soaker. The soaker can often be replaced when wet, so the cover can be used more than once. Being able to reuse the covers makes these a convenient and cost-effective option.
* Hybrid Cloth Diapers. These diapers have a disposable insert and a cloth cover. Some brands offer both disposable and washable inserts so you can use the same covers all the time. This is not the cheapest option, but it does offer the greatest flexibility.
How to Use Cloth Diapers: Washing
The next basic realization in learning how to use cloth diapers is that cloth diapers need to be cleaned. Again, the cloth diaper basics, you need a place to store them until wash day. A large wet bag or a cloth diaper pail will do.
Washing cloth diapers is pretty simple as well. Simply rinse in the washer to get out as much residue as possible. Then run a hot wash with a cloth diaper safe detergent. Hot water helps to make the detergent work harder and it helps to dissolve minerals and residues more effectively. Follow with a rinse cycle. Then line dry or tumble dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
How to Use Cloth Diapers – Dealing with Messes
But, wait, you say. What about messes? Again, easy as can be. If your baby is breastfed, just put the diaper in the pail. It all comes out in the wash. I promise! For babies who are formula-fed or just starting solids, a flushable diaper liner or a cloth diaper sprayer makes quick work of any messes. As your baby gets older, the solids will shake off of most cloth diapers quite easily. Just shake the diaper over the toilet to remove the majority of the mess and toss the diaper into the cloth diaper pail.
Cost Savings with Cloth Diapers
Cloth diapers can cost $50-500 to get started. Many people ask if they are worth it in the long run. Washing and drying does add a minimal extra expense, but even with that cost – most families save $1,500-2,500 per child. Plastic and paper throwaway diapers cost an average of 28 cents each – more in the larger sizes. Since each baby will use about 6,000-7,000 diapers those costs add up fast!
Once you learn how to use cloth diapers, you’ll love having a never-ending supply of clean diapers ready for your baby.
