Cloth Diapering
Dispelling the Myths!
When a mom mentions that she uses cloth diapers, she may get one of several reactions. The most common responses seem to be: “What? They still make those?” or “Like with pins and everything?” or “Why would you do that?” Cloth diapering is actually making a comeback. More moms are turning to cloth diapers because of economic and environmental concerns. And these are not your “typical” cloth diapers. They are now as convenient and easy to use as disposables.
There are several myths associated with cloth diapering:
They all require pins and plastic pants!
Not necessarily true anymore! Now, instead of pins, parents may use what is called a Snappi®. The Snappi® has grippers on each end and is shaped like a T. The Snappi® stretches across the diaper on either side, and grips in the middle to keep the diaper snug and secure on baby. Instead of plastic pants, parents may also use diaper covers that incorporate snaps or Velcro to keep the cover secure and leak-free.
They are so hard to maintain!
Cloth diapering does require laundering. Most manufacturers suggest laundering cloth diapers every two days to keep diapers fresh. This just means an extra load of laundry a few times per week. When compared to the time saved having to run to the store to purchase diapers, throwing your cloth diapers in your washer does not take much time at all. The typical wash routine for cloth diapers may vary depending on what type of diapers you use, but usually a pre-rinse with cold water, followed by a long wash with hot water and an extra rinse to get rid of detergent residue is all you need. Some washers will complete all of these cycles on their own, while others may need to be restarted after the pre-rinse. If you own a top loader you would only need to use 1/2 the recommended amount of detergent, and an HE washer would only use 1/3 of the recommended amount. It is important to use a detergent without added enzymes, brighteners, dyes, etc.
They are stinky!
Cloth diapers are stored in dry pails. If the pail has proper air circulation, it should not have an objectionable odor. Some pail liners even come with swatches of fabric which will allow you to dab some tea tree or essential oils on it to make it fresh smelling. When you are washing diapers every two days, they do stay very fresh.
They are so hard to use!
Cloth diapers are much easier to use now than they used to be. In addition to the invention of a Snappi® and Velcro/snap diaper covers, there are many other different types of diapers. All-in-ones are very similar to a disposable diaper. They have a waterproof outer layer with an absorbent inner layer, and secure with Velcro or snaps. There are no extra steps for washing or diapering. Just diaper your baby, and then wet throw the diaper in your dry pail. It is just as easy as using a disposable! Another popular diaper is the pocket diaper. This diaper has a waterproof “shell” with a soft inner lining to keep baby dry. An insert made of micro fiber, hemp, or other absorbent material is then stuffed into the shell. This allows you to save time when drying the diaper since the pieces can be laundered separately. And, finally, another very popular diaper style is the one size diaper. These diapers typically adjust from birth through potty training with the use of snaps or buttons that adjust the rise of the diaper, so that the diaper grows with baby. Diaper covers, pockets, and all in ones may all be available in a one-size version.
Poop is so gross!
There are several new, easy ways to deal with poop. If baby is exclusively breastfed, the diaper can go into the diaper pail without any preparation. The breastfed baby poo just washes right out! Once a baby starts on solids, some moms prefer to just “plop” the poo into the toilet and not utilize any other methods of cleaning. Flushable liners are a great way to make poo even more “plop able”. The thin liners are placed on the diaper in between the baby and diaper. The liners let moisture pass through but catch any solids. The liners can be placed in the toilet if they are dirty, and can easily be flushed (remember to check your septic system first). Some even wash and reuse the liners when they are just wet. The last method of poo removal is the diaper sprayer. This sprayer hooks up to your toilet’s fresh water supply and allows you to spray the poo from the diaper into the toilet. This can help make clean up a breeze.
They are so expensive!
Cloth diapers do require an initial investment. Diapers usually run anywhere from $11 - $19 or more depending on what material and style you prefer. However, when compared with the cost of continually purchasing disposables for two to three years (the Real Diaper Association estimates that each child will use 6,000 diapers in the first two years of life), the savings is incredible. There is also a market for used cloth diapers. So when you are done with your diapers, you may be able to sell them and recoup some of the cost.
If you would like to learn more about cloth diapering and determine if it is an option for you and your baby, there are many retailers available online. Some offer cloth diapering, and some even offer free shipping. Check out their FAQs to see if cloth diapering might be a surprisingly easy alternative for you. You may find that you absolutely love using cloth on your baby. It’s comfortable for baby, and a cost savings for you.