February 21, 2008 | Being Green, Shopping
Cloth diapering has made an amazing comeback with the recent “go green” movement as well as the current financial strains on society. Whatever your reasoning for taking interest in cloth diapering there is one thing you should know. Cloth diapers have come a long way from sharp diaper pins and bulky plastic pants. There are many different styles to choose from so you can get that perfect fit for your little ones bum and the perfect fit for whatever lifestyle you lead. If you do a search for Cloth Diapers you will get endless results. Wish it was a little simpler? Here you go, a quick intro to the different cloth diapers out there…
All In Ones (Referred to as AIO’s)- Most like your average disposable diaper. These consist of a soft, stay dry inner liner (usually micro fiber or suede cloth) and an attached, waterproof outer layer. These diapers are usually secured with Velcro type closures, Snaps or S hooks. These come in very many colors and prints. Washing is made easy, you throw them in the machine and wash per distributors instructions.
Pocket Diapers - Built very similar to all in ones with a soft inner liner, a waterproof cover and Velcro, snaps or S hook closures. The difference is a small pocket opening between the liner and the cover for what is known as a “stuffer”. It is your absorbent layer. Pocket diapers are very customizable. Have a heavy wetter? Add an extra stuffer for more absorbency. Have a very trim baby? Add a slimmer liner. Some parents use distributors liners where others may find that a prefold diaper (found in your local retail store, commonly used as burp cloths) or a terry cloth washcloth work just as well. Many colors and prints available. Washing includes and extra step of removing the stuffer from the pocket. This allows for a more thorough clean and faster drying time.
One Size Pockets - Built just like Pocket Diapers but with the addition of a few extra snaps these diapers can be adjusted to fit an 8lb infant up to a 35lb toddler! With One Size diapers you can buy a large stash that will get you from newborn to potty training!
Fitted Diapers - These diapers fit much like a disposable with elastic legs, contoured fit and Velcro or snap closures. They do not have a waterproof outer layer as the Pockets and All In Ones do so a separate cover is required. Covers come in all sorts of fun colors and patterns and also secure with Velcro or Snaps.
Prefolds - These are rectangular shaped diapers that, with a little technique, can be folded and shaped like a diaper and secured in place by pins or a plastic clip called a “Snappi”. These diapers require a cover and are definitely the most inexpensive choice in cloth diapering. Their size makes them easy to wash and very quick to dry. These can be dyed or embroidered!
While there are many more options in the world of Cloth Diapers this is just a short intro to help you get a feel for what is out there. For more info, reviews and places to buy check out these websites…
Bum Genius - One Size Pockets, AIO’s and MORE
Cotton Babies - All shapes, sizes and more information on washing and care!
TK Cuddlers- Pockets, AIO’s and completly customizable colors, contours and patterns.
Want one more good reason to check these out? It’s a great way to support products made in the USA and our country’s small businesses. Many companies are completely manufacturing their diapers in the USA and some of the smaller companies (TKcuddlers, mentioned above) are independently owned and products are made completely by work at home moms!
If you’re not sure about cloth yet, give it a try. Jillian’s Drawers makes it easy with their Try Cloth refundable program. For a $100 deposit you get a shipment containing most everything you’ll need, including several different types of cloth diapers. You have 21 days to try it out, and then you can send back everything that didn’t work for you - whether it’s the whole cloth-diapering shabang, or just one or two of the products. They’ll refund up to $90 for you (they keep $10 to cover the cost of the program).
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cjoy says:
Oooh…I’m a cloth diaper junkie. Thanks for the links; I’d heard of all of these except TK Cuddlers and cannot wait to check it out (I have a six week old and his tiny hiney is almost ready for the cloth I have in Smalls…).
There’s a fun blog that’s informative and done by a few moms here: http://diaperchronicles.blogspot.com/.
February 21st, 2008 at 6:56 pmJeana says:
cjoy,
Glad to hear from a cloth diaperer! I have to admit I am just getting started but I have put many hours of research into this subject!
The TK Cuddlers are great! They are made by a lady who does them in her home. She completely customizes them to your specifications. I have one but it’s a little big for my toddlers tiny backside!
Thanks for sharing the blog too!
February 21st, 2008 at 8:44 pmluxury guy says:
I’m glad that one more blogger join “go green” movement.
July 1st, 2008 at 6:09 amMore and more wise bloggers everyday - positive tendency.