There is a lot of buzz about cloth diapers these days because of the money savings, environmental and health benefits. Modern diapers are very different from the pinned and tied diapers from a hundred years ago, but there’s still a learning curve.
So how hard is it to get started with cloth diapers if you are a complete newbie? Not hard at all, as long as you are armed with a couple of useful tips.
#1 You do not have to use cloth diapers full-time. You might buy a small stash and try them just during the day, and then use disposables at all other times. That way, you don’t have to invest much, or launder that much AND you can see what you like or don’t like.
#2 It helps to start with easy diapers first. I was scared of folding flat diapers and prefolds for the longest time. So I bought a few All-in-One (AIO) diapers. They are basically like a cloth disposable…..but you don’t throw them away!. Simply wrap around your baby and go. One of my favorite AIO diapers also happens to be one of the most affordable on the market – the Diaper Rite AIO.
#3 Start with a basic, fuss-free laundry routine. Throw dirty diapers into a pail or garbage can until laundry day (knock or scrape off the solids with toilet paper first). You can use mainstream detergent to wash your diapers. Just stay clear of fabric softener. Throw your dirty diapers into the machine. Run a rinse cycle only. Now do a good long hot wash with detergent, making sure there’s plenty of water in the machine. Add 1 extra rinse at the end. That’s all. You can machine dry (on low/medium) or hang dry.
#4 Make dealing with number two easier by using flushable/disposable diaper liners, or by investing in a diaper sprayer.
#5 Join an
so you can get help quickly and easily if a problem arises. Fellow cloth diapering mothers are fountains of wisdom and experience!
If you have some more
to share, I’d love to hear them. You can find help, resources and even a few cloth diaper giveaways
.
