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Cloth Diaper Information
Why Choose Cloth Diapers?
Cloth diapers are less expensive than disposables
Most babies will use approximately 5,400 diapers from birth to potty-learning, costing approximately $1,400. Basic cloth diapering supplies for this same length of time can cost as little as $350. Cost savings can be multiplied if you plan on having more than one child, since most cloth diapers can be re-used on subsequent children as well.
Cloth diapers are better for the environment
Approximately 16 billion disposable diapers are used annually in the US alone. These generally take several hundred years to decompose. In addition, over 250,000 trees and 3 billion gallons of oil are used per year in the US alone for the production of disposable diapers.
Types of Cloth Diapers
These aren’t your mom’s cloth diapers! Modern cloth diapers are much easier than the pins and plastic pants of previous generations. Most families also find a well-fitting cloth diapering system to contain leaks at least as well as the average disposable diaper.
Not sure which to diapers to use? Our Cloth Diaper Starter Package allows you to try a little of everything. If you don’t love it we’ll take it back within 14 days!
Chinese Prefolds (also called “diaper service quality” or DSQ prefolds)
The “workhorse” of cloth diapering, these are the most economical and versatile diapering option. Most babies only need two sizes from birth to potty-learning. Generally 2 dozen prefolds are recommended in each size. Once baby outgrows one size they can often be used as doublers and later as cleaning rags! If you are signing up for a diaper service you will be “rented” a supply of prefolds. Your used prefolds are picked up once a week, and the diaper service leaves you a clean supply. If you use a diaper service you will still need to purchase waterproof covers and wash them yourself. Prefolds need to be worn under a waterproof diaper cover.
Fitted Diapers
Less bulky and a better fit than prefolds, but more costly. Generally 2 dozen are recommended in each size. Fitted diapers need to be worn under a waterproof diaper cover.
Waterproof Diaper Covers
Elastic binding and hook and attached closures (either hook/loop or snaps) ensure a good fit, containing leaks to keep baby’s clothing and bedding dry. Generally 6-8 covers are needed in each size. Must be worn over a prefold or a fitted diaper.
Pocket Diapers
These are most like disposable diapers in their ease of use and convenience. A microfiber “pocket” is stuffed with an absorbent pad to make a self-contained unit—separate diapers and covers are not needed. Generally 2 dozen are recommended in each size. Most pocket diapers are either one-size or two sizes, which avoids having to purchase multiple sizes as baby grows. Over the long run this can be a cost-effective option, but will require more of an upfront investment.
Care and Use
Diaper Pails
A tall kitchen-size garbage can with a lid makes for the best cloth diaper pail. You can line it with a reusable waterproof pail liner or a plastic bag. DO NOT FILL YOUR DIAPER BUCKET WITH WATER. It is heavy and is a drowning hazard. Plus, it doesn’t seem to keep stains or smells at bay any better than a dry pail. If your pail gets stinky you can sprinkle in some baking soda and/or tea tree essential oil.
Do I really need to dunk my soiled diapers in the toilet?
Once babies start eating solid foods the consistency of their stools will become more firm. When you get to this stage you will need to shake out or dunk soiled diapers in the toilet prior to putting them into your diaper pail. This can be done by holding a corner of the diaper and swirling it in the toilet until most of the solids are removed. Many families also find a sprayer that attaches to the water supply line of the toilet helpful (see “Helpful Accessories” for more information on sprayers)
Washing Instructions
Wash on hot with a mild detergent free of enzymes, whiteners or optical brighteners. If you’re finding that this isn’t enough, a pre-wash with cold water can be helpful. Cloth diapers, covers and wipes can be washed together. Washing every 2-3 days is generally recommended. Diapers can be dried in a dryer or hung on a clothes line.
Stains
Hanging your stained diapers in the sun is enough to remove most stains. Do not use bleach on your fitted diapers or covers. This will greatly reduce the length of wear and in most cases will void your manufacturer’s warranty. Bleach can be used occasionally and sparingly on prefolds, but again, this will reduce the length of wear. Remember: stains on diapers do not mean they are not clean!
My Diapers Stink!
Most problems with stinky diapers are due to detergent buildup on the diapers. This residue reacts with urine making them smell bad. To remove the detergent buildup wash diapers with 1-2 tablespoons of blue Dawn dish soap. Try another detergent for your regular wash. Some people have found enzyme-based cleaners like Bac-Out help “strip” diapers of buildup as well, but do check your manufacturer’s warranty prior to use.
Helpful Accessories
Cloth Wipes
Reusable cloth wipes are available. You can either dampen them with some warm tap water or use a diaper area spray cleanser. Some families prefer to leave their pre-moistened cloth wipes in a wipe warmer intended for disposable wipes. This works fine, just make sure you use them within a day or two to prevent mold growth. Soiled wipes can be placed in the diaper pail and washed along with your cloth diapers.
Wet Bags
Wet bags are waterproof bags used for carrying soiled diapers while out of the house. These bags can also be used for wet swimsuits, muddy park clothes, camping trips, etc.
Toilet Sprayers
This is a hand-held sprayer that attaches to the water supply line on your toilet. A suction cup holds the sprayer on the tank when not in use. Many families find this useful for spraying off solid waste into the toilet prior to washing, rather than swirling a diaper in the toilet to remove solids.
Other Questions?
We’re always available to answer any questions or walk you through your options! We also hold monthly Cloth Diapering Made Easy classes and Open House events in the Sacramento, CA area so you can see the diapers in person.
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