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Cloth Diapering FAQ

How many cloth diapers do I need to get started? TOP

You need to consider the age of your baby. Newborns and infants use about 10 to 12 diapers per day while toddlers may need 6 to 8. Ideally, you would have about 24-30 diapers for a newborn, and 18-24 diapers for a toddler. Many parents use only one system of diapering (like prefolds with covers or pockets), while others like to have a few of each type for different situations. For example, a family might use prefolds at home during the day, all-in-ones for outings and/or babysitters, and a fitted diaper with wool cover for overnight.

Other items you may need are:

· Snappis for securing prefolds (if using them).

· Diaper covers if you intend on using prefolds or fitted diapers

· A Diaper pail liner or Large Hanging Wet Bag – this is a waterproof liner or bag that can be thrown in the wash with your diapers on laundry day. Most families have two of these for when one is in the wash.

· Wet bags for outings – these are waterproof zippered bags that are used to transport your soiled diapers home to be washed. You may want to have more than one depending on how often you go out and how often you launder your diapers.

· Cloth wipes – these can be washed right along with your diapers. I like to pre-moisten mine and keep them in a disposable wipes container. Just as easy as disposable wipes!

· Laundry Detergent for Cloth Diapers – Specially formulated detergents like Rockin' Green or Allen's keep your diapers free of residues, which can cause leaking or smelly diapers!

There are so many different diapering systems, which is right for me? TOP

Every family has a system or combination of systems that works best for them. It really depends what you want from your diapers (for example, economy, ease of use, cuteness). Here is an explanation of each system with their advantages and disadvantages. We highly recommend trying out one of our Rental Packages to get an idea of what diapers you like before buying!

Prefolds

Prefold diapers are rectangular pieces of absorbent cloth that have several layers. Most prefolds are either 4x6x4 or 4x8x4, which indicates the number of layers on each side and in the super absorbent thicker strip down the middle of the diaper.

Prefolds can be secured either with pins, a Snappi diaper fastener, or simply folded and laid into a diaper cover, which is then fastened onto the baby. Prefolds require a cover because they are not waterproof.

· Prefolds are one of the most economical ways to diaper.

· Some would argue they are the easiest to launder as they do not need any special care like folding or the removal or stuffing of inserts. They also dry quickly.

· You can choose which type of cover to use, PUL, fleece, or wool (read on…)

· Prefolds are a two-part diapering system meaning you need to use a diaper and a diaper cover.

· Prefolds don’t have a lining to wick moisture away from the baby’s skin, although you can add a microfleece liner inside the diaper for this purpose.

· Prefolds are pretty plain as far a cloth diapers go, although some people like to dye or embellish them.

Fitted Diapers

Fitted diapers are contoured cloth diapers which generally have elastic leg openings and either snap or Aplix (Velcro) closures. Fitted diapers are not waterproof so they do require a cover.

· Fitted diapers typically cost $10-20 or more a piece, depending on the style and material. Fitteds can be made from cotton, bamboo, or hemp.

· Fitted diapers tend to be better at containing messes and preventing leaks than prefolds due to elastic leg casings. Many people use fitteds for overnight for this reason

· Fitteds are a two-part diapering system meaning you need to use a diaper and a diaper cover. You can choose which type of cover to use: PUL, wool or fleece.

· Some fitted diapers don’t have a lining to wick moisture away from the baby’s skin, although you can add a liner inside the diaper for this purpose if you prefer.

· Fitted diapers are available in sized or one-size designs.

· Fitted diapers are available in plain, coloured, or printed designs.

· Many parents will put a fitted on their baby without a cover or pants while at home and then change whenever they become wet. This is a great way to let baby’s bum get some air (like on hot summer days!) and can help prevent or cure a diaper rash.

· Fitted diapers often take longer to dry in your dryer or on a clothesline than prefolds - although many have soakers that snap or flip out to decrease drying time.

Pocket Diapers

Pocket Diapers consist of a waterproof cover outside and stay dry liner inside with an opening in between in which parents can stuff absorbent materials (such as an insert or a prefold). Pocket diapers are available with Velcro or snap closures, depending on your preference.

· Most pocket diapers require that you remove the insert before laundering.

· Pocket diapers are available in sized (S, M, L, XL) or one-size versions which can fit babies from birth to potty learning – these can be a great way to save money. See our FAQ on choosing between One Size and Sized Diapers for more info.

· Pocket diapers are available in many cute colours and prints!

· The absorbency can be customized to suit your baby’s needs. For example, a great nighttime solution is to double stuff a pocket diaper with two inserts for extra absorbency. Others like to add a hemp insert to the pocket to boost absorbency when needed.

· Pocket diapers have a quick drying time since the absorbent insert is removable for laundering. It's easy to extend the life of your pocket diapers by hanging the empty pockets to dry while drying the inserts in the dryer. This preserves the integrity of elastics and Aplix closures.

· Pocket diapers are very babysitter and grandparent-friendly! They can be pre-stuffed out of the dryer so they are ready to use at changing time.

All-in-One Diapers

All-in-one diapers are exactly that: A waterproof outer and absorbent inner all in one! These are available with snaps or Velcro fasteners.

· The absorbent material is sewn directly into the diaper – no need to stuff pockets or remove inserts before laundering.

· All-in-one diapers are very babysitter and grandparent-friendly.

· All-in-one diapers take longer to dry in the dryer or on a clothesline than pocket diapers

· Some All-in-one diapers do not allow for customizable absorbency, although you can add a diaper doubler to the inside if you like. Many brands have a pocket opening to add extra absorbency if needed!

*Some Diapers are really "All in Two" Diapers which means that the absorbent soaker is removable. This helps cut down on laundry plus saves money because more soaker than covers can be purchased and you can re-use the cover when changing the diaper (just change the absorbent part)!

This seems like a lot of information to digest but follow the links to the different products for a closer look, contact us with questions (we're happy to help!) or visit our Facebook Page to look up or ask any other questions you still have about deciding on a system.

Why would I use prefolds and how do I use them? TOP
Prefolds are the perfect workhorse diaper! They are relatively inexpensive, very versatile, easy to wash and put away, and easy to get stains out of. They are also great burp cloths, change pads, car rags, and the list goes on!

Prefolds are available in preemie, infant, and toddler sizes.

Using Prefolds:

Start by prewashing your prefolds at least a few times in hot water. They will quilt up, and become more absorbent with each wash.
There are many ways to fold prefolds:

Tri-fold and place inside a snug-fitting diaper cover. Then fasten onto your baby. The cover will contain any poop blowouts.
The poop-pouch fold - lay the prefold on the table and place baby on top. Fold the front of the prefold up between baby's legs letting the diaper bunch up between baby's legs to form a pouch. Fasten with a Snappi or pins. Use a cover to make this system waterproof.
Click here for other ways to fold a prefold - find what works best for your baby!

Cover prefold with a diaper cover for a waterproof system. Some parents of older babies like to use a prefold Snappied without a cover to let the bum get some air - just change your baby once he/she feels wet.

Washing Prefolds
Couldn't be easier! Shake solid poop into the toilet and toss it in the dry pail (exclusively breastfed babies' poop can go straight into the pail). On laundry day dump them in the washer - then either tumble dry or hang in the sun to get stains out and save energy. There is something so serene about a clothesline full of prefolds drying in the sun!

What is the difference between inserts, doublers, and liners? TOP

*Inserts are used inside pocket diapers and are usually made of microfiber or hemp. Many pocket diapers come with an insert included already, but extras can be purchased to add absorbency (for example, adding a hemp insert to the pocket for overnight). Microfiber inserts are meant to be used inside the pocket of the diaper only and not intended for use next to your baby's skin.
*Doublers are great for adding more absorbency to all-in-one diapers or fitted diapers (they can be placed next to baby's skin). You can also use them for extra absorbency inside pocket diapers.
*Liners help keep messes off your diapers making them easier to clean and preventing stains. They are also great for keeping creams off of your diapers since creams can cause cloth diapers to repel liquids. Microfleece liners create a stay dry liner between your baby and the diaper, keeping them feeling dry and comfortable. Liners can be cloth or biodegradable/flushable.

How do I wash my cloth diapers? TOP

Washing cloth diapers is really no more difficult than washing regular laundry! Here are some tips to get you started on the right track.

Storage of dirty diapers: Most cloth diapering families use the dry pail method, which involves storing dirty diapers in a waterproof diaper pail liner or hanging wet bag (which are machine washable), then just dumping the diapers into your machine on laundry day along with the laundry bag. We recommend owning two pail liners or hanging wet bags so that you have one to use while the first is in the wash. To use a pail liner, simply use a large garbage bin or hamper with a lid, line it with the diaper pail liner and you are ready to go!

When you change your baby, simply toss the used diaper into the dry pail. An exclusively breastfed baby’s poops do not need to be rinsed or removed in any way. If your baby has solid poops, shake the excess into the toilet, and then place the diaper in the pail. The washer will take care of the rest. For the "in between" stage of poops, consider using flushable diaper liners or a diaper sprayer to remove solids from the diaper before washing. Both are easy to use and you never have to touch ANY poop!

If using a diapering system with covers, the cover can be re-used until soiled, and just the flat, prefold, fitted, or soaker pad can be tossed in the pail. If you are using pocket or all-in-one diapers, remove the insert (if there is one), fasten the laundry tabs, and throw it all in the pail. If you are using a wool cover click here for wool care tips.

**Buying a wet-bag for when you go out makes taking cloth diapers along easy! A wet-bag is a waterproof bag with a zipper that you can stick in your diaper bag and use to store your dirty diapers while out. Just toss it in your pail when you get home and wash the wet-bag along with your diapers on wash day!

Laundry day:

Most people wash their diapers every 2-3 days. Usually 2 dozen diapers is a good sized load, without being over-full. Too many diapers in a load may not come as clean and can cause friction and pilling of the fabrics. After a few loads you will figure out what works for you in terms of length between washes and how full to fill your machine.

Dump your diapers and the diaper pail liner/wet bag into the machine. Do a cold or warm rinse cycle before washing to avoid setting stains or smells. Then do a hot wash cycle with about 1/4 to 1/2 the amount of detergent you would normally use for clothing. After washing either tumble-dry or line dry. Line drying outdoors in the sunlight will save energy, plus remove stains and make your diapers look new! Try it and see for yourself! To avoid stiff diapers, set them out on the line during early morning or late afternoon hours when they will not dry as fast. Line drying your diapers will also extend their life - although everything can be thrown in the dryer together as well if you cannot line dry or just don't have time!

**Many people like Rockin Green, Allen’s Naturally detergent, Original Tide, Country Save, Sunlight, other biodegradable detergents, and many others. Find what works for you!

**Avoid using detergents with whitening agents as they can break down diapers and cause skin irritaion. Also avoid using baby detergents such as Ivory Snow or Dreft, and avoid ultra concentrated detergents as they can cause build-up..

**If you find your diapers are holding a bad odour, try doing an extra, hot rinse cycle after washing to remove detergent build-up, which is often the cause of odours. If odours or rashes persist, consider switching to Rockin' Green Detergent which is free of residues which cause laundry issues! Visit our Smelly Diapers FAQ for more info!

**Avoid using bleach on your diapers as it will eat away at the fibers of your diapers leaving holes and affecting absorbency. It also can irritate your baby's skin.

**Avoid using fabric softener as it can cause your diapers to repel liquid rather than absorb. Really, when it comes to washing diapers, keep it simple! Using more than one product can lead to buildup or other laundry problems, plus it can make it hard to troubleshoot if you do have issues down the road.

What do I use for a diaper pail? TOP
A large plastic bin, laundy hamper, or garbage can can serve as your diaper pail. Consider purchasing a Wahmies pail liner to line your pail with and there will be no need to wash the pail - just dump the pail in the wash with your diapers!

Wool diaper covers? What? TOP

Wool makes a wonderful diaper cover for many reasons:

· Wool is a natural fiber

· Wool is breathable and an amazing insulator as well. It keeps baby cool when it is hot and warm when it is cold. Wool also prevents diaper rash by allowing the skin to breath.

· Wool can hold up to 1/3 of its weight in moisture, yet it doesn’t feel wet. Wool begins evaporating moisture into the air as soon as it is absorbed.

· Most parents agree that wool is the most leak-proof system, especially for night time when leaks happen most often.

· Wool contains natural lanolin, which creates a natural waterproof barrier.

· Wool is naturally anti-bacterial, which means it does not need to be washed if only wet with urine.

Many people decide not to try wool because they think it is difficult to care for. No, wool can’t be tossed in the wash with the rest of your diapers but the washing and lanolizng process is certainly not difficult or time-consuming, and only needs to be done if the cover is soiled, retaining a urine smell, or losing its waterproof properties. See below for wool care instructions.

How do I care for my wool diaper covers? TOP
Using and caring for wool diaper covers can seem intimidating but is quite simple in reality! Using wool has many advantages which you can read about here. Most wool covers will come with washing instructions from the retailer, however here are some general instructions for wool care

Wool covers only need to be washed when they are soiled – wool has natural self-cleaning and anti-bacterial properties due to the lanolin it contains. If your wool cover is wet after use, just hang it to air out before using it again. If the urine smell does not fade when dry or if the cover is soiled, then it’s time for a wash. Plan to wash your covers about once a month.

Wool covers also need to be lanolized about once a month (with regular use). You can wash and lanolize at the same time. Follow these instructions, but omit the lanolin if you want to wash only.

Rinse your wool cover in cold water if you need to remove any poop.
Run your sink water until it is HOT.
Plug the sink and put a small glob of Lanolin at the bottom along with a small glob of wool wash or baby shampoo. Lanolin is available in most baby stores/Walmart in the section for products for nursing moms. You can also purchase Eucalan no-rinse wool wash which replaces both products.
Run a bit of hot water over the Lanolin and soap to melt it. Mix well.
Fill the sink the rest of the way with lukewarm water. Add the wool, gently squeeze the water through the wool, and then let it soak for 15-20 minutes.
Drain the water and roll the wool up in a towel to squeeze out the excess liquid. Then hang or lay flat to dry. That’s it!

What are the extra laundry and energy costs involved in cloth diapering? TOP
This article at The Diaper Pin estimated total energy costs involved in cloth diapering to be 1.3 cents per diaper.

This article at The Diaper Pin concludes that the extra laundry detergent costs incurred with using cloth is also 1.3 cents per diaper. The article factored in using vinegar and baking soda also - neither of which are used on a regular basis for diaper laundry in most households today.

What is PUL? TOP
PUL (polyurethane laminate) is fabric that has had laminate applied to the back. It is what most diaper covers as well as pocket diaper and all-in-one outers are made from. PUL is waterproof, not bulky, and easy to care for.

My baby has a rash. Can I use diaper rash cream with my cloth diapers? TOP
If your baby has a rash, there are lots of methods that you can use to treat the rash naturally before reaching for rash cream:

Let your baby's skin get some air by either having naked time on a towel or blanket, or by using a prefold or fitted diaper with no cover until the rash clears up.
Change your baby's diaper more frequently. If your baby spends a long time in a wet diaper, this could irritate the skin - especially when starting new foods or teething. You can also try using a diaper with a microfleece inner OR laying a microfleece liner between your baby's skin and the diaper to keep wetness away.
Your baby may be having a reaction to your detergent. If you think this might be the case, be sure to completely rinse the old detergent out of your diapers before switching to a new detergent. Here is a helpful list of Cloth Diaper Friendly detergents
You may have a case of detergent buildup in your diapers. If there is buildup, you may also notice that your diapers have an odour when clean or that they have an ammonia smell when wet with urine. They may also be less absorbent than usual. See our guide to stripping your diapers of detergent buildup. Avoid detergent buildup by using no more than 1/4 of the amount of recommended detergent for clothing, and by running your diapers though either an extra rinse cycle and/or a pre-wash cycle during your normal washing routine. If you have very hard water in your area, consider using Calgon Water Softener when you wash your diapers. **Your diapers should not smell like detergent or like urine when they are clean - they should smell like nothing! Adjust the amount of detergent you use accordingly.
Avoid unnecessary chemicals on your baby's skin by cleaning with just water and cloth wipes.

If you must use diaper cream, be sure to use a liner to prevent the cream from transferring onto your diapers. Barrier creams like zinc and vaseline, and even cloth diaper friendly diaper creams can sometimes create a barrier on your diapers that will cause urine to leak rather than be absorbed. Please contact us if you need more guidance in dealing with diaper rash. We are happy to help!

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Cloth Diapering FAQ