Advice and Answers



Browse cloth diaper posts by topic:

Washing & Prepping Diapers
Buying New & Diapers
Selling Your Cloth Diapers

Cloth Diaper Fabrics
Cloth Diaper Inserts
Cloth Diapering on a Budget
Using Flats & Prefolds
Using Wet Bags & Liners
Using Diaper Covers
Dealing with Diaper Rash
Buying American Made
Cloth Diapering Challenges

 


FAQ

What is easiest type of cloth diaper to use?
The All-in-One (AIO) diaper is generally thought to be the easiest and most convenient style. You put it on your baby and go, just like you would a disposable. There is nothing to fold, nothing to pin, nothing to stuff. It's all built in to the diaper. 

What is the least expensive type of cloth diaper?
Waterproof poly covers used with either prefolds or flat diapers is probably the most economical system available. You can get started with as few as 4-6 covers (less than $10 each) and a dozen diapers ($1 to $3 each).

How many diapers will I need to begin?
It depends on how often you will do laundry. Most families wash diapers every other day. So you'd need about 2 dozen diapers. If washing less often, say every 3 days, you'll need more. If washing every day, you can get by with less.

How do you "prep" diapers for first use?
It depends on the fabric from which they are made. Diapers made from bamboo, microfiber, microfleece and other synthetics may need only 1 wash to get rid of factory residue. Cotton and hemp, and organic fibers, will need at least 2. Here are the full details.

What's the best way to store dirty diapers?
You have a couple of options. A large hanging wet bag won't take up any floor space and can be hung from a hook or door handle. Or just toss soiled diapers in a pail, 5-gallon bucket or trash can. To save yourself the hassle of cleaning out the inside of a container regularly, one of the most popular options is a pail liner with elasticized edges. Many families find that keeping the lid open, or the wet bag unzipped, creates air circulation that helps to cut down on odors until wash day.

How do you wash cloth diapers?
There is some trial and error involved with diaper laundry, but here are some basic recommendations to follow.

How do you deal with #2 messes?
You can dunk and swish dirty diapers in the toilet. You can purchase a diaper sprayer which hooks to the sink or toilet to spray off messes. Disposable or flushable liners that catch a lot of the poo are also handy.

Are there differences between diapering boys and girls?
Boys tend to wet more up front, and girls towards the back, so keep that in mind as you position diapers and inserts. A boy may also pee to one side or another and leak out the side of a diaper; to avoid this, make sure he's pointing straight, and down.

Do you have any advice for cloth diapering a newborn baby?
Absolutely! We've diapered 2 newborns from birth so far; you can find over 100 different newborn reviews here, plus lots of photos so you can see how they fit.

How do I choose the right style or brand for my baby?
There are so many brands to choose from that it's probably going to take some trial and error for you to find what works best. As for style, consider your budget and your preferences. If folding diapers turns you off, then opt for pockets or AIO diapers or or AI2's. If you have a very heavy wetter, consider fitted diapers, or diapers that contain hemp. If you want to save more money and don't mind a little bit of folding, check out prefolds and flat diapers. If you have a spouse or family member that's going to be heavily involved and you want something as easy as possible, go for AIO diapers or pockets that you stuff ahead of time.

Click here to view photos and descriptions of the different styles of cloth diapers.

No comments:

Post a Comment