With so many choices in Cloth Diapers - How do we Choose?!?
Using cloth diapers is actually easier than trying to figure out what to buy! Once you have decided which cloth diapers to get started with, the hardest part really is over. This article should help you determine which cloth diapers will best suit the needs of your family.
The right cloth diapering system will vary greatly from family to family. What works for one parent, may be a disaster for the next. So how do you decide what is right for you and your baby? First, evaluate what is important to your family, and what you are looking to get out of your cloth diapering experience. Would you like to use the least expensive diapering system, despite its steeper learning curve? Do you want to use diapers that are the most environmentally friendly? Or do you simply want the easiest, most convenient way to put your baby in cloth? Keep in mind that many parents use a combination of diapering systems and that systems may change as their baby’s needs change. As a starting point, determine which statement best describes your current requirements…
And finally, because everyone always asks...
The least expensive and most basic diapering system would be a combination of prefolds and PUL covers. At Parenting By Nature we sell Unbleached Indian Prefolds, the best you can buy, and Bummis Diaper Covers in white and prints. You can cloth diaper your child for the entire time he or she is in diapers for less than $400. There is a steeper learning curve to using this system, but if you are determined to use cloth and you won’t be easily discouraged by this, using prefolds is a tried and true method of cloth diapering. You might consider a Complete Package of Prefolds and Covers - the most economical way to get started with cloth diapers today!
You have two basic options. Option one is to mix and match prefolds & covers with pocket diapers. Use prefolds and covers during the day, and pockets at night or when you're out and about. Pocket diapers have an excellent resale value, so while you may have to spend a bit more up front, you will be able to get some of this money back when your baby potty trains.
Option two is to use fitted cloth diapers and Bummis Diaper Covers. This is an economical way to cloth diaper, without fussing with folding and securing a prefold. Fitted diapers generally have snaps or Velcro to make diaper changes a breeze. Then you just put on the cover and you're set to go!
For about $200-400 more over the course of three years, you will have easy to use, great fitting diapers with minimal leaks.
Once you get your system established you will find, as most cloth diapering moms today already have, that yes, it can be easy. But, for those that are a little hesitant to use cloth diapers but are willing to give it a try, we would recommend starting with a few Fuzzi Bunz or Happy Heiny's pocket diapers. Happy Heiny's have an easy to use Velcro closure, and with either of these pocket diapers you will get a good feel for how fun and easy cloth diapering really can be. A beginning package of 6 pocket diapers and 6 inserts should get you off to a great start for as little as $150 (includes diaper pails and necessary accessories). Or, start with our Convenience Trial Kit. For a very small investment you can try out EASY cloth diapers first hand!
The most environmentally friendly option would be a hemp/cotton diaper, hemp/cotton prefold or organic cotton diaper with any wool cover. This would be a diapering system complete with only natural fibers. Completely breathable for baby and the least impact on the environment. This is also a wonderful combination for any baby with highly sensitive skin or that is prone to diaper rash.
I don’t want leaks! Ever!
Well, then we definitely wouldn’t recommend using disposables! Actually, the most leak-proof diapering system we have found thus far has been in using Fuzzi Bunz Pocket Diapers or Kissaluvs fitted cloth diapers and a Bummis Super Whisper Wrap diaper cover. The soft micro fleece of the pocket diapers and textured surface of a fitted diaper stop leaky solids in its tracks and they are easy to get a nice snug, secure fit around the waist and thigh openings. You can also easily customize the absorbency to suit your own baby’s needs by adding additional inserts or doublers.
I am looking for affordable convenience. What should I try?
With the abundance of innovative cloth diapers available today, using cloth diapers is easier than ever! We would recommend pocket diapers. Happy Heinys are the easiest to use with their Velcro closures but Fuzzi Bunz are also incredible popular with their trimmer fit. You will need at least 24 pockets with 24-28 inserts per size. Keep in mind the costs can be spread out over the course of a 2.5-3 year diapering period!
Money is no object! I want cloth for my baby and I want it to be easy on me!
The most convenient system to use would be one made up of all-in-one diapers, such as our fabulous BerryPlush Cloth Diapers, or Happy Heiny's Pocket Diapers. With Velcro closures and the unique design of the Happy Heiny's, these are the closest you will get to using a disposable.
The BerryPlush Cloth Diapers are constructed with a hemp/cotton fabric that is incredibly absorbent, and the soft exterior of either of theses systems makes them a popular choice. When pre-stuffed, a Happy Heiny's pocket diaper functions the same as an all-in-one. For the same cost of disposables, you’ve made the healthiest choice you can for both baby and the environment. These diapers are not to be mistaken for inexpensive department store brand all-in-ones. There is just no comparison!
With your cloth diapering experience, what would you recommend?
Kissaluvs cloth diapers with a high-quality cloth diaper cover such as a Bummis Super Whisper Wrap seem to fulfill the needs of the average family quite well. With the great fit and absorbent, high-quality fabric of Kissaluvs, and the easy-to-use velcro closures of the Bummis Super Whisper Wrap, you can't go wrong. They are also easy to use, easy to wash, and the least likely to cause discouragement if you are new to using cloth diapers. No pins, folding, leaks or fuss! If you are on a tigher budget, 12 Kissaluvs and 12-24 Unbleached Indian Prefolds (depending on the age of your baby) will take you all the way with ease.
