Need some resources for a new mama

KatieGraceB

I met a mom today while out shopping, in the CD section of the one baby store nearby that sells them. We got to talking about CDs and what I use, and how many to buy, etc. I ended up just getting her email so I could send her some useful links and info, and connect her with some message boards where she could find info.

So can you ladies link me to your favorite CD for beginners resource?

StephanieDM

Check the FAQ link at the top of the board. Lots of helpful links there.

Dork_Fish

I've found the EFF Blog really helpful too. Here's a C&P of some of my saved info:

 

Jillian's Drawers
Pin Stripes & Polka Dots
Green Mountain Diapers
Abby's Lane
Nicki's Diapers
Cloth 101?
Kelly's Closet
CD FAQS
EFF Blog - "I've never looked back."
What detergent should I use? Diaper Jungle Chart
How do I wash the diapers? EFF Blog
How do I store dirty cds? CD FAQ A plain old trash can with lid and then add a pail liner or pillowcase.
What diaper cream should I use? CD FAQ & EFF Blog

What are the differences? Here is a quick summary on your basic options: Flats:Your cheapest option.  Not waterproof (requires a cover).  I haven't used them, but I think they are just large, single-ply sheets of cotton that you fold up into different configurations to diaper your baby with.  Secure them with a Snappi or pins.  Pros: Easy to clean and they dry very quickly.  Cons: Require a tiny bit more effort than some other options. Can be bulky.
Prefolds: Next-cheapest option.  Not waterproof.  Probably what your mom thinks of when she hears "cloth diaper."  They are sheets of cotton that are "prefolded" so that there is extra absorbency in the middle.  You fold them around your baby and secure with a Snappi or pins.  Pros and cons about the same as flats, except they don't require as much folding as flats. 
Fitteds:Look like a disposable diaper, usually have velcro or snaps to close, but sometimes require pins.  Not waterproof.  Excellent nighttime option when paired with a wool cover (more about that below).  Usually made predominantly from natural fibers; sometimes have microfiber or something else sewn into the core for absorbency.  Pros: Less work than flats or prefolds.  Cons: Still requires a cover, can sometimes take a long time to dry, bulky.
Pockets: Looks like a sposie, comes in two pieces: the shell, which has a waterproof outer layer and usually a synthetic stay-dry inner layer; and the insert, which can be made of microfiber, cotton, bamboo, hemp, etc.  The insert is stuffed into an opening in the shell (the pocket, hence the name) for absorbency.  Pros: Dries quickly because the shell and insert come apart.  Waterproof.  Customizable - you can add inserts if you need more absorbency.  Trimmer than other options.  Cons: Some people report wicking around the legs and waist.  More expensive than other options.  Synthetic fabrics.  
All-in-Ones (AIOs): The most akin to disposables, these diapers have a waterproof outer layer and are all one piece.  Just slap it on and go.  Pros: Easy, trimmer than other options.  Cons: Takes a long time to dry, not customizable, more expensive than other options.
Hybrids:These are diapers that consist of two pieces - an outer, waterproof shell, and an insert for the inside.  They're kind of like pockets except there usually isn't a pocket to put the insert in - you just lay it in.  The idea is that you just change the inserts and don't have to change the covers except once a day.  Pros: Easy.  Cons: I've not used them myself, but I understand that the way they work, poop will still get on the cover, so you generally use several covers a day.  They're also on the pricey side.

COVERS
PUL: These are waterproof, usually have snaps or velcro, and are pretty trim.  Wool:Popular for use at night with fitteds, though many also use it during the day.  Natural fiber, breathable.  Expensive, though, if you don't know how to knit your own.  If properly lanolized, they don't require frequent washing. 
Fleece:A cheaper alternative to wool.  They have to be washed after every use, though.

KatieGraceB

That is great info Dork_Fish! I am fairly new to CDing myself, and that is just the sort of info I was looking for to send her way. I just didn't have all the time in the world to put it together. Because at this very moment I am still procrastinating on TB instead of getting to work on my Psych homework.

Ok, for real this time, I'm gonna have to get on that lol.

Dork_Fish

KatieGraceB:

That is great info Dork_Fish! I am fairly new to CDing myself, and that is just the sort of info I was looking for to send her way. I just didn't have all the time in the world to put it together. Because at this very moment I am still procrastinating on TB instead of getting to work on my Psych homework.

Ok, for real this time, I'm gonna have to get on that lol.

I'm glad it could be helpful to someone else  

SGreen04

What store sells CDs? I'm near Orlando too but didn't know we had a store! That could be dangerous!