Cloth Diapering Basics: Everything You Need to Know to Get Started

Types of Cloth Diapers

One of the first decisions you’ll face in cloth diapering is choosing the right type of diaper. Here’s a quick rundown:

  1. Pre-folds and Flats
  2. All-in-Ones (AIOs)
  3. All-in-Twos (AI2s)
  4. Pocket Diapers

 

Check out our “Types of cloth diapers” blog for more information about the Pros and Cons of each style.

Cloth Diaper Essentials

Aside from the diapers themselves, a few essential items make cloth diapering much easier.

  1. Diaper Inserts
  • Inserts come in various materials—like cotton, bamboo, microfiber, and hemp—each with unique absorbency and drying characteristics. Experiment to find what works best for your baby’s needs.
  1. Diaper Covers
  • If you’re using prefolds or flats, you’ll need waterproof covers. These keep moisture from leaking out, allowing for a snug and dry fit.
  1. Wet Bags
  • Wet bags are waterproof bags designed to hold soiled diapers when you’re out and about. They contain smells and moisture, making them a must-have for diaper changes on the go.
  1. Diaper Liners
  • Optional but helpful, liners sit on top of the diaper to catch solids, making cleanup easier. They’re especially useful when your baby starts eating solid foods.

Establishing a Cloth Diaper Routine

Creating a routine with cloth diapers will make the process seamless. Here are the key steps:

  1. Changing and Storing Dirty Diapers
  • After changing, store soiled diapers in a diaper pail or wet bag until laundry day, I would suggest 2-4 days. This prevents odors and contains any moisture. Wet bags are essential for changes outside the house. You can make this easier by separating cover, liners, and removing any solid waste/wipes.
  1. Laundry Routine
  • Washing cloth diapers doesn’t have to be a chore! Start with a rinse cycle to remove any additional solid waste, then follow with a hot wash using a baby-safe detergent. Avoid fabric softeners, as they can reduce absorbency. Air dry or tumble dry on low heat, depending on the diaper type.
  1. Drying and Folding
  • Air drying diapers can extend their life and reduce energy costs, but it may take longer. Many parents choose to dry inserts in the dryer and air-dry covers. Folding and organizing diapers ahead of time keeps your changing area ready for easy access. Drying covers in your dryer can ruin the PUL cover over time. This PUL is what makes your diaper waterproof. When this become over worn (or ruined from dryer) this leads to leaking and is no longer useable.

Cloth Diapering on the Go

You can absolutely cloth diaper while you’re out and about! Here’s what you need to know:

  1. Packing the Essentials
  • Pack your diaper bag with a few clean diapers, wipes, a wet bag, and possibly a spare outfit (just in case). Having the right supplies will keep diaper changes quick and stress-free.
  1. Daycare and Cloth Diapers
  • If your baby attends daycare, ask if they’re open to cloth diapering. Many daycares are willing to work with cloth diapers, especially when you provide easy-to-use styles like All-in-Ones or Hybrids. Speak with your daycare and be sure to explain they are reusable and should not be thrown away.
  1. Traveling with Cloth Diapers
  • Cloth diapering on longer trips can be done with a bit of planning. Hybrids, which allow for disposable inserts, are ideal for vacations or times when laundry access may be limited. From personal experience, my family will use disposables for longer trips for peace of mind.

Common Cloth Diapering Challenges and Solutions

Every parent faces some bumps along the way, but here are a few quick solutions to common cloth diapering challenges:

  1. Leaking Issues
  • Leaks are often due to fit or absorbency. Adjusting the fit, adding an extra insert, or checking that your diapers aren’t repelling due to residue can solve most issues.
  1. Rashes and Skin Sensitivities
  • Proper washing, breathable materials, and adding a liner can help prevent rashes. Always make sure diapers are thoroughly rinsed, as detergent residue can sometimes cause irritation. Check out our “cloth diaper creams” blog for information containing types of creams you CANNOT use on cloth diapers.
  1. Getting the Right Fit
  • Finding the right fit as your baby grows can require some trial and error. Many cloth diapers are adjustable with snaps or Velcro, so you can adjust as needed for comfort and leak prevention. Babies Beginning currently only offers one size pocket diapers. These fit from newborn to 35lbs. One size diapers are the most frequently bought due to the length of use!
  1. Myths About Cloth Diapers
  • Don’t be swayed by myths that cloth diapers are difficult to use, messy, or less absorbent. Modern cloth diapers are designed with convenience in mind and are effective for keeping babies dry and comfortable.
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