So I've been effectively converted, and I am now dying to try CD'ing. I just have tons of questions!
1. I've pretty much decided to start with an AIO, because I've been using disposables and I'm comfortable with them, and also because DH is still really uncomfortable with the whole CD thing. It seems like an AIO is the most like disposables - true?
2. Sizing - this is what really screws me up. DS is 9 mos and 25 lbs, so obviously I need something that will fit him now, but I also want to be able to use the same diapers on our next LO, starting at birth. Is this even possible/feasible?
2. I'm clear on how to wash them, and that diaper cream is a no-no, but what about wipes? Can I still use regular wipes, or is there another, preferable method? And what do you use if you do have diaper rash issues?
That's all I can think of at the moment! Thanks ladies!
Re: CD mommas - I'm confused!
IMO:
1. Yes, I think they are most like disposables. For what it's worth, my DH actually changes more diapers with the cloth then he did for the very short time we used disposables. He loved them and even helps with the laundry.
2. I prefer to have the correct size so did not purchase the one size adjustable diapers, I heard to many people say that they are never quite the right size. If you want to use them with your next child, just remember that your next little one will also be 9mo/25lbs at sometime
And you can buy/sell used CD's.
2. I use regular wipes as well as cloth wipes, I just make sure he is dry before I place the diaper on him. You may notice that you do not have any diaper rash issues to deal with while using cloth. If you do end up needing to treat diaper rash you could place a fleece liner between the diaper and your LO.
Good luck!
This blog is a great resource.
https://theecofriendlyfamily.blogspot.com/
The AIOs that I've had the best luck with are the Bum Genius Organic One Size AIOs. Up until I found these I was not an AIO fan
Unfortunately there is not a OS diaper that will fit from the NB stage to toddlerdom. Most people use something different for the NB stage and then move to the OS diapers when the baby is about 10-12 lbs.
1. I didn't really start CDing until DS was 4 months, but I use prefolds with Thirsties covers and BG OS pockets. I had gotten an XSmall BG AIO for when he was little but I hated that it didn't fit right and I couldn't change it so I went with the OS and love them. He's almost 10 months and we've had no problems. Normally I use the prefolds and save the BG for DH and anyone who's watching DS because they're pretty much the same as disposable.
2. Theoretically the BG OS are supposed to fit starting almost right away, but I think you'd have better luck using something specific to the newborn period and then switching when the next one is more like 9-10lbs.
3. We used cloth wipes with wipes solution when DS was only breastfed. Now I use disposable wipes if he poops and the cloth for pee. Diaper rash-there is a natural one you can use. I got mine from Kelly's Closet.
You picked a good time to start-there are great sales tomorrow!
1. yes, AIOs are most like disposables, especially since they usually have the stay dry layer, which helps to wick away moisture (BG organic AIOs do not have the stay dry layer, but aized BG AIOs do have this layer). Also, pockets have the stay dry layer and are almost just as easy as AIOs. I don't really like prefolds and fitteds because LO is always soaked and they require a cover, thus more bulky.
2. They sell one size diapers, but these are a bit more bulky and don't fit until about 10 lbs anyway. I love the BG sized AIOs. The xs was perfect when DS was a newborn! So trim and fit so well! I prefer sized diapers because they are more trim.
3. I use cloth wipes. I have a little container of water on the change table and I just wet a wipe before using and dry him before putting the diaper on. Like pp said, you will probably have less rash issues when using CDs, but if you do encounter rash, you can just use a fleece liner with any cream!
1. I don't use AIOs; I use pocket diapers (BG 3.0s and Fuzzi Bunz) and they are pretty easy to use.
2. Agreed that the OS diapers don't really fit well till around 10 pounds. Before the 10 pound stage, we used Kissaluvs size 0s with Thirsties covers from Sunshine Diapers' rental program.
3. I use cloth wipes and disposable wipes. If you're using disposable wipes, BE SURE to throw them away in the trash and not put them in the wash with your diapers, or you'll have to pick disposable wipe lint out of the diapers. I have a little spray bottle of water on the changing table that I use to wet the wipes. Neither of my children have ever had an issue with diaper rash; you can use a disposable liner with a cream if you need to care for a rash. I also use California Baby's Diaper Area Wash (around $12 or so for a spray bottle, and the bottle lasts a long time) if I see any redness at all.
We love one-size pockets instead of AIOs. For the person who is putting the diaper on the baby, it's still just as easy as disposables. The only difference is you remove the insert prior to laundering and re-stuff before putting them away. But they dry faster and are usually less bulky than one-size AIOs.
Ditto on not fitting at the NB stage, however the NB stage is really easy. You can do a rental program, you can go cheap with prefolds and covers (YouTube has plenty of videos to show you how to fold them), or get fitteds with covers. We did the latter and they are worn for such a short time they can easily be saved for the next baby or resold at a good price.
Cloth wipes are SO easy if you cloth diaper! You can use baby washcloths or buy specific cloth wipes or even make your own if you are crafty. We have a spray bottle of water and the wipes in a basket at the changing table. Spray and wipe and then drop the wipe in the diaper pail. We bought maybe 15, got 12 as a gift and have like 6 baby washcloths and have never needed to purchase more. Total savings. Also great to have in your bag for snotty noses, grubby hands, post-meal faces, and even as a distraction/toy when waiting in line etc.
Thanks ladies! After reading the replies and doing some additional research, I think I'm going to go with a OS pocket diaper for DS, and when baby #2 arrives, we'll get some newborn-sized diapers until the OS fits.
I appreciate all the advice!
Whatever you do, please don't get your hopes and $$ set on one type of diaper. You may want to love pockets and then find out that they don't work for you.
If you have the time I would strongly suggest doing on of the CD trial packages where you can try all different kinds to see what works for you. You keep what you like, send back what you don't and you can then buy more of what works for you.