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| Diapering Questions Cloth Diapers versus Disposable Diapers 1. What are the environmental effects of disposable diapers? 2. Do you really save money using cloth diapers? 3. What's disposable diapers made of? 4. Can I still use cloth diapers if my child's in daycare? 5. Is cloth diapering practical when you're on the go? Diapering Basics 1. Diapering Definitions 2. What type of cloth diaper is right for me? 3. How many diapers should I buy? 4. What diaper cover is best for me? 5. How many diaper covers do I need? 6. How to measure to get a cloth diaper that fits. 7. How do I fold cloth diapers? 8. What cloth diaper accessories do I really need? 9. What's the best system for diapering overnight? Washing Cloth Diapers 1. Do I need to pre-wash my new cloth diapers? 2. What detergent can I use? 3. Are there detergents I should avoid? 4. How do I clean cloth diapers? 5. How do I clean my diaper cover? 6. How do I clean my wool diaper cover? 7. Do I need to clean out the washer after I've cleaned my diapers? 8. How do I get out the stains? 9. Ammonia smell in cloth diapers. 10. I just used my first cloth diaper and now it's dirty. What do I do next? 11. Help the diapers are leaking! Cloth Diapers versus Disposable Diapers 1. What are the environmental effects of disposable diapers?. "Many parents initially look at cloth diapering for environmental reasons -- and with good cause! The Women's Environmental Network in Europe has done some great work in furthering the use of cloth diapers in Europe through educating the public about the amount of waste generated by disposables. Based on a report from the Women's Environmental Network, The Real Diaper Association reports:
Looking at waste on the mainland, I found a report published by the Environmental Protection Agency. This report shows the Characterization of Municipal Solid Waste in the United States and gives an interesting view of the waste situation in the United States ten years ago. It says, "An estimated 3.1 million tons of disposable diapers were generated in 1997, or 1.4 percent of total MSW generation. (This tonnage includes an adjustment for the urine and feces contained within the discarded diapers.) The materials portion of the diapers includes wood pulp, plastics (including the super-absorbent materials now present in most diapers), and tissue paper. No significant recycling or composting of disposable diapers was identified in 1997." The same report, published in 2005 (Municipal Solid Waste in the United States: 2005 Facts and Figures) showed that disposable diapers accounted for 3.6 million tons of waste and 1.5% of the total waste generation for that year. Once again, the report specifically mentioned that no significant recycling or composting of disposable diapers was identified in 2006." (This answer was taken off www.cottonbabies.com with the owner's permission.)2. Do you really save money using cloth diapers? Absolutely! The initial cost may seem like a lot (typically about $100-400), but when you calculate the over all cost of disposable diapers over two years you save about $2000!! Most cloth diapers will typically last through three kids, so if you have more than one child the savings can be a lot more. Just think what you could do with that money (start saving for college or go on a family vacation). 3. What's disposable diapers made of? "A baby can be sensitive to the ingredients used in diapers. From Kimberly Clark's 2005 Annual Report: "Superabsorbent materials are important components in disposable diapers, training and youth pants and incontinence care products. Polypropylene and other synthetics and chemicals are the primary raw materials for manufacturing nonwoven fabrics, which are used in disposable diapers, training and youth pants, wet wipes, feminine pads, incontinence and health care products, and away-from-home wipers." If needed, an information sheet about the specific ingredients in disposable diapers can be obtained from the diaper manufacturer at the request of your pediatrician. Using your pediatrician’s advice, you should be able to choose the right diapering system. If you aren’t sure about a particular product, call the product’s manufacturer to resolve any questions before making a purchase. Another issue frequently brought up in cloth diapering circles is dioxin exposure. According to a Mothering Magazine article, entitled "The Joy of Cloth Diapers"'Dioxin, which in various forms has been shown to cause cancer, birth defects, liver damage, and skin diseases, is a by-product of the paper-bleaching process used in manufacturing disposable diapers, and trace quantities may exist in the diapers themselves.'" (This answer was taken off www.cottonbabies.com with the owner's permission.)4. Can I still use cloth diapers if my child's in daycare? We advise that you to contact the daycare individually. Each state has different daycare regulations. You might be surprised though. More and more day cares are getting on the cloth diaper bandwagon. If you educate yourself about the laws and bring the diapering choice for demonstration this will up your chances. Most daycare will want a All-In-One diapering system. Remember the easier it is for them the more likely they will say yes. You will also need a wet bag to have them store it in and then most likely they will require that you take them home at night and wash them. 5. Is cloth diapering practical when you're on the go? Of course. You may want to get comfortable cloth diapering at home before you try this, but you'll find that once you got the hang of it it will be as easy as disposables. Here's what you need when you're on the go: A. Two small wet bags- one bag will hold dirty diapers and the other one to hold clean ones. B. Cloth diapers-We recommend All-In-Ones or Pocket diapers. C. Cloth wipes D. Spray bottle with Kissaluvs Lotion Potion solution ready to go. Diapering Basics 1. Diapering Definitions All-In-One This cloth diaper choice is just how it sounds. It has a waterproof cover, absorbent inner liner, and built in closures. These diapers DO NOT require a diaper cover because of the waterproof outer layer. They close by either velcro or snaps. This is daycare, babysitter, and daddy friendly. These are very convenient like a disposable, but have the advantage of being environmentally friendly too! Aplix This is a type of closure for a diaper. It is a hoop and loop fastener. Cloth Diaper Cloth diapers are made of fabric and are washable and reusable. They are a healthy, natural, environmentally friendly alternative to disposable diapers. Contoured Diaper Contoured diapers are similar to prefolds except they are shaped and do not require folding. The wings require Snappi or diaper pins. This type of cloth diaper also requires a diaper cover at all times. This is not a good option for overnight diapering, but is great for the day. Chinese Prefold Diaper If you're trying to save money this is the cloth diaper for you. It is a flat, square diaper that require folding. The diaper is divided into three sections. The outer section is thinner and the middle section is thicker for absorption. It comes in different sizes and thicknesses. They do require prewashing to make them soft and absorbent. They come in bleached (white) and unbleached. This type of diaper require a diaper cover. Diaper Cover Diaper covers are used for prefolds, contours, and fitted diapers. They come in different styles and fabrics. Fitted Diaper Fitted diapers must be worn with a diaper cover. They have elastic at the legs and waist. They don't require diaper pins or Snappi's since they have some kind of closure on them. Flat Diaper These are the cloth diapers that I was cloth diapered in when I was a baby. They are still popular today because they are considered a one size diaper. The sizes are 27 or 30 inches squares and can be folded many different ways to accommodate your child as they grow. Flat diaper are made of flannel, birdseye cotton, gauze, or hemp. Nylon Pants These are the more traditional diapers from the past, but are now made of breathable nylon. Dappi is an example of a brand that make nylon pants. One Size Diaper This diaper allows you to diaper from newborn to toddler. Depending on the brand they go from newborn to about 35 pounds. Snaps are placed to allow for the diaper to be folded over when the baby is first born. Pocket Diaper Pocket diapers are very popular since you can adjust the absorbency of the diaper. This diapering system doesn't require a diaper cover. They have a waterproof fabric on the outside and an absorbent, soft fabric on the inside. These two layers are sewn together to form a pocket that an insert(s) can be put into. Many diaper brands make insert (also known as a doubler) from either cotton or hemp. There are also flushable liner too. Many people stuff the pocket with prefolds too. This is a popular overnight diapering system since you can add multiple inserts or doublers. Fuzzi Bunz, SwaddleBees, and Happy Heinys are example of pocket diapers. Plastic Pants This is the diapering system of the past. Do not use plastic pants as they do not allow for air circulation which is a breeding ground for yeast and bacteria. Wool Soaker Wool soakers are made mainly of wool. Wool is a naturally water resistant and anti-bacterial, so it's perfect as a diaper cover. Imse Vimse, Swaddlebees, and Sckoon all make excellent wool diaper covers.2. What type of cloth diaper is right for me? This is the number one question we get. The answer is it depends on you and your baby. There are a lot of options on the market now, so anyone can find a system that works for them. Remember also that you don't have to choose one type. Most people use a combination to fit their needs for different times. The following are the different types of cloth diapers and their uses: Prefolds- These are best for a budget. They are also easiest to clean. It does take a little bit of time to get the hang of the folding, but once you got it's a snap. They require a diaper cover and Snappi or diaper pins. Contours-These are also very economical. They also have the advantage of a little more ease of use than the prefolds. They also require a diaper cover and Snappi or diaper pins. Fitted-These are middle ground as far as economics go. They have elastic around the legs and waist and some kind of closure so there are no Snappi or diaper pins. They do require a diaper cover, but these are very popular for day to day use. One-Size-These are great if you have more than one kid. There aren't different sizes for these so your newborn to toddler can wear them. They also save you money as you don't have to buy all the different sizes as your child grows. Pocket-Pocket diapers are very popular since you can adjust the absorbency of the diaper. This diapering system doesn't require a diaper cover. They have a waterproof fabric on the outside and an absorbent, soft fabric on the inside. These two layers are sewn together to form a pocket that an insert(s) can be put into. This is a popular overnight diapering system since you can add multiple inserts or doublers. All-In-Ones-This cloth diaper choice is just how it sounds. It has a waterproof cover, absorbent inner liner, and built in closures. These diapers DO NOT require a diaper cover because of the waterproof outer layer. This is daycare, babysitter, and daddy friendly. These are very convenient like a disposable, but have the advantage of being environmentally friendly too! 3. How many diapers should I buy? This again depends on you. How often are you planning on washing? How many diapers does your baby go through in a day? What diapering system are you using? If you're not sure what diapering system you're going to use I suggest getting 2-4 of the different types you're considering and then try them out for a while. Once you've decided on what diapers to use then figure out how many you need each day. If you're on a budget, but want a more expensive diaper then buy a few every month. I have found that most people need 18-22 diapers and wash their diapers every 2-3 days. To save money consider buying the diapers in packages . See our Fuzzi Bunz packages! 4. What diaper cover is best for me? There are three types of diaper covers:  Wrap-If prefolds are used with these there is no need for a Snappi or diaper pins. They hold diapers in place and are fastened with velcro.  Pull-On- These are put on like regular underwear. These are not tight fitting so the diaper underneath needs a Snappi or diaper pins. These are usually used for fitted diapers.  Snap- These also require Snappi or diaper pins since they are not a tight fit like the wraps. 5. How many diaper covers do I need? Now don't panic. You don't need as many diaper covers. A good rule of thumb is to have 1 diaper cover for every 3-5 diaper changes. 6. How to measure to get a cloth diaper that fits. First of all before you order anything check out the size chart. Every brand of diaper will have a size chart with all the measurements and weights for each size. Here are the three things you need to measure: Waist-This one is easy because it's easy to figure out where to measure. Simply measure where the belly button is. Thigh-Make sure you get the thickest part! Rise-Measure from the belly button around to where the belly button placement would be if it were on the back side (You will be making a "U" when you measure). Make sure you do these measurements based on what diaper you're getting. For example is you are buying a diaper cover make sure you have on the prefold, contour, or fitted diaper that you will be using with the cover when you measure. If you are buying a pocket diaper that doesn't require a diaper cover make sure to measure the baby without anything on. 7. How do I fold cloth diapers? 8. What cloth diaper accessories do I really need? With all the options you have right now it can be very confusing with what works and is essential and what you can live without.
9. What's the best system for diapering overnight? Here you have a couple of options:
Washing Cloth Diapers 1. Do I need to pre-wash my new cloth diapers? Yes. All diapers should be washed and dryed at least once. Why? This makes the diapers absorbent. Prefolds especially need this. Prefolds should go through 4 to 5 wash and dry cycles before use. Fitted diapers need to be clean 3-5 times also. If this is not done I can guarantee you'll have a problem with leaking. 2. What detergent can I use? These are some suggestions, but it is always best to check with the manufacturer. The following is from the Fuzzi Bunz manufacturing website (www.fuzzibunz.com)
3. Are there detergents I should avoid? Never use detergents containing pure soap, enzymes, whiteners, brighteners, fabric softeners or anything with scent. This will break down the fabric and you will have money down the drain. 4. How do I clean cloth diapers? When I clean my cloth diapers this is what I typically do: 1. Do a rinse cycle with cold water. 2. Do a full wash cycle on hot. 3. Do another rinse cycle to make sure I got all the detergent out and also if it's a very dirty load. (This is optional) 4. Dry my diapers in the sun to kill bacteria and get rid of stains. (You can also dry them in the dryer on low) 5. How do I clean my diaper cover? It is especially important that you not use any detergents with the above qualities from question #3 on diaper covers. The water resistance of the covers would be ruined if they were washed with a detergent that had any of those qualities. Also allowing them to soak can destroy the water resistance. I highly recommend that you allow them to air try as it will prolong their life. If you have to dry them put them on the lowest setting and only leave them in for 10- 15 minutes. You can clean a diaper cover like you would any of your other cloth diapers. To find out how to clean wool diaper cover see question #6 below 6. How do I clean my wool diaper cover? Wool diaper covers take special care, but are well worth it. When your wool diaper cover starts to smell it is time to clean it. To clean you need to handwash it. You must use a special wool cleaner like Eucalan. Fill your sink up with cool water and the Eucalan. When the water is ready place the wool diaper cover in and let it soak for 10-15 minutes. To try place between two towels. DO NOT wring or twist to get the water out. This will cause the wool cover to loose shape. Every once in a while you will need to lanolize your diaper cover. To do this dissolve a tablespoon of lanolin in 1 cup of hot water. Let the water cool until it's warm and then put the cover in and move it back and forth. Next take it out and put it between two towels and let it dry. DO NOT rinse the cover as it will undo everything you just did. 7. Do I need to clean out the washer after I've cleaned my diapers? No. The washer will be clean after the wash is done. 8. How do I get out the stains? The best thing to do is to put your diaper in the sun to dry. If the stain doesn't come out the first time then get the diaper wet again and put it back outside. 9. Ammonia smell in cloth diapers If there is an ammonia smell in cloth diapers it is because of detergent residue or you are using a detergent that is scented. Here are some thing to check and try if you do have an ammonia smell in your cloth diapers:
10. I just used my first cloth diaper and now it's dirty. What do I do next? What to do with a wet diaper: If it is just wet you can simply throw it in the diaper pail. You can rinse it if you want to, but it's not a must. What to do with a poopy diaper: There are few options with poopy diapers. The first way you simply turn the diaper over and let the poop fall in the toilet. Flush and then dunk and rinse the diaper in the toilet bowel. If that sounds gross to you you can get a Mini Shower Sprayer. These simply attach to the plumbing on your toilet. You just spray off the diaper over the toilet and throw your diaper in the diaper pail. This method allows you the ability to clean off the diaper without having to touch toilet water. 11. Help the diapers are leaking! For any diaper here are some things to check first. After this list are some specifics for each kind of diaper.
Prefolds-Make sure you have high quality prefolds. Most prefolds sold in the store are not made of high quality material and so do not have good absorption or fall apart fast. Also make sure you have the right size and absorption. If it is too small or doesn't have enough panels your baby will easily leak out of the diaper. In addition make sure you have the right size diaper cover. If all of the above is okay try adding an insert or a doubler if your baby is a super soaker. Fitted Diapers-Fist thing to look at is to make sure you have the right size diaper cover. If your baby is a heavy wetter try using a doubler/insert. If the diaper's been fine, but all of a sudden is leaking you need to move up in size. Diaper Covers-The first thing to look at is the size. Make sure you measured right and that size fits. Also if you've used the wrong kind of detergent (especially those with bleach and stain removers) it many have ruined it's outer waterproof layer. Once this has happened there is nothing you can do about it. Pocket Diapers-The main difference with these diapers are the insert that fit into the pocket. If you are having leaking issues you will want to try adding another doubler/insert. Pocket diapers and especially the inserts are susceptible to detergent buildup. The waterproof layer of this diaper is especially prone to break down if you use bleach or detergent that have stain removers. All-In-One Diapers- Like the pocket diaper be careful with what detergent you use as the wrong kind will ruin the waterproof layer on the outside. Another thing to try is adding a doubler/insert since this type of diaper doesn't have as much absorption capability as other options. |
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