To cloth or not?

totallyshocked · August 2014

Currently I am pregnant with #2 and interested in learning about cloth diapers. Any pros/cons?? Trying to decide if its better for baby and also financially better (yes I know that it is definitely better on the environment). TIA

sarenu1 · August 2014

The only Con I can think of is cloth diapering has made me want to try all of the different diapers.

And there are way too many fun prints out there. I just don't have the storage space for them all...

Unknown · August 2014

This content has been removed.

cedenton · August 2014

Keep in mind when you're looking at prices of diapers that they can range anywhere from $5/piece to $30/piece for limited edition prints, but that you can save a LOT of $$ by buying used from Buy/Sell/Trade sites, craigslist, the swap spot or posts on here, etc.

There really aren't a lot of cons.

Dealing with poop? Well, you're going to have more blowouts in sposies so you'll be dealing with it anyway.

More laundry? Meh. Depending on the size of your stash it's one load every 2-3 days and again more blowouts in sposies = more laundry.

More water usage? Maybe. That one's hard to calculate, but generally the difference is nominal.

Pretty much getting addicted to cute diapers is the worst.

abby8279 · August 2014

Wait what? We are all a bit partial here. I am sure you will not find any votes for "not".

totallyshocked · August 2014

I didn't think I would get any cons. LOL. I love that I would have another board too. I have read the FnQs im just really not sure of the process and how much to buy etc. Any good sites I can access?? But I did learn something.... less blowouts?? def didn't know that!! Thanks mamas. Trying to do as much natural and good stuff this time around. But yes I totally see myself getting addicted to the prints.

mrshudson618 · August 2014

theultimatesak said:

You are not going to find anyone on this board that will tell you it's not 100% better to go with cloth over disposables. Try checking out the FAQ for links on more information, including some benefits to cloth

This

cedenton · August 2014

totallyshocked said:

I didn't think I would get any cons. LOL. I love that I would have another board too. I have read the FnQs im just really not sure of the process and how much to buy etc. Any good sites I can access?? But I did learn something.... less blowouts?? def didn't know that!! Thanks mamas. Trying to do as much natural and good stuff this time around. But yes I totally see myself getting addicted to the prints.

totallyshocked Do you know how many blowouts I've had in 2 years of CDing?...one...maybe two.

ETA: And my kid poops a lot. I don't bat an eye when he poops 4-5x/day still at 2 yrs old. (but he never poops at night and hasn't in a looooong time unless he's sick).

mrshudson618 · August 2014

totallyshocked said:

I didn't think I would get any cons. LOL. I love that I would have another board too. I have read the FnQs im just really not sure of the process and how much to buy etc. Any good sites I can access?? But I did learn something.... less blowouts?? def didn't know that!! Thanks mamas. Trying to do as much natural and good stuff this time around. But yes I totally see myself getting addicted to the prints.

The very basics:

You need 36 changes for a newborn stash, 24 for one-size diaper stash

Washing EOD is recommended.

Wash routine: cold or warm rinse cycle or light wash, hot wash with detergent, extra rinse.

Store dirties in open pail or unzipped wet bag.

yes, it is worth it to buy a nb stash.

best to start with a varied stash of brands and types to see what works for you/your baby.

Any more specific questions we can answer?

totallyshocked · August 2014

That is exactly what I was looking for!! Yes. I think Im sold!! Im a stay at home mom so I really don't see any reason why I wont have time and energy to do this. Thank you thank you

Must say my favorite questions on the FAQ

People make rude comments and/or take bets on when I’m going to give up cloth diapering. Is it really that hard?

Nope. People are just dumb

TJ1979 · August 2014

Where's @clldll with her legit helpful information?

If you want to cd from birth, you'll need a NB stash and a OS stash. Nbs are worn for a short amount of time so resale value is great.

For NB stash you'll want about 36 changes to wash every other day. Prefolds and/or fitteds and covers are best at containing runny NB poo, but AIOs and pockets will work during the sweet spot where baby actually fits in them but hasn't outgrown the absorbency.

For OS stash, you'll want around 24 changes for EOD washing. Everyone has different preferences.

You will also need cd safe creams and detergent, and several wet bags.

Stay away from zulily. Buy from legit diaper stores.

kmc84 · August 2014

I recently switched to cd when dd was 15 months. The only con that I can think of at this point is that I didn't do it right from the start!

My DD was super prone to yeast rashes and knock on wood since we've switched to cloth we've had no yeast rashes and the mild diaper rashes that she has had have cleared up very easily!

jess9802 · August 2014

We've been cloth diapering for two years now. DH and I both work full-time outside the home. (My mom watches DS at our house, so she does help out with the laundry, but I don't find cloth diaper laundry to be difficult or time consuming at all). I have been very, very happy with our decision to use cloth. We primarily use flat diapers plus covers, and I have just started using diaper pins.

Biggest pro for us has been the cost savings. Our entire stash plus accessories has cost less than $600, and of that total we only paid about $370. The flats are starting to look a little thin and will need to be replaced for baby number 2. Most of the covers are in excellent shape and could be reused. I have seen slight increases in our water and electric usage, but it's hard to attribute those increases to cloth diapering because once DS was born we've had someone at home (my mom) during the day. My stepson also lives with us full time now. We used disposables for the first 7 weeks of DS's life, and had to increase the size of our trash bin to handle the diapers. As I recall disposable diapers plus trash service cost us $75/month. I have been very disciplined with spending money on cloth diapers; it would definitely be easy to spend lots of money on cute diapers.

Cons have been dealing with post-solids poop (it's not always ploppable and spraying is my least favorite task) and finding overnight solutions. There's also a little bit of trial and error in terms of finding the right fit for your baby. Many people here rave about Blueberry diapers - but their one size pocket diaper does not work for my son, and never has. Using flats and covers away from home (especially out in public) can be a bit tricky, but I've figured out a system.

PipSqueak0313 · August 2014

The other con to cd is when you only have the ability to buy 2 more diapers but there are 5 you want.....and then when they are in your stash, it's do I want this one or that one....no wait, maybe this one to go otb

Into+the+Kitty · August 2014

Chickypoo2468 said:

I, for one, have not found a single pro. All cons. Yet I do it anyway just to spite myself. And because I'm so bored with this SAHM gig. What else am I going to do?

When I feel this way, getting a boyfriend on the side always spices things up.

TJ1979 · August 2014

Into+the+Kitty said:

Chickypoo2468 said:

I, for one, have not found a single pro. All cons. Yet I do it anyway just to spite myself. And because I'm so bored with this SAHM gig. What else am I going to do?

When I feel this way, getting a boyfriend on the side always spices things up.

You two are the cons of CDing.

Into+the+Kitty · August 2014

TJ1979 said:

Chickypoo2468 said:

I, for one, have not found a single pro. All cons. Yet I do it anyway just to spite myself. And because I'm so bored with this SAHM gig. What else am I going to do?

When I feel this way, getting a boyfriend on the side always spices things up.
You two are the cons of CDing.

Aww, I always considered myself a pro. Kind of like in Pretty Woman. Underneath everything. I secretly have a heart of gold.

totallyshocked · August 2014

Whats confusing me the most in inserts vs flushable inserts vs prefolds..... Ive been googling for days and still a bit confused but I think like most of you said. To each their own. And do you all prefer hemp or A different fabric? You are so supportive and helpful!!

TJ1979 · August 2014

You don't want anything flushable. It's not really all that flushable. I've never heard of flushable inserts though, just flushable liners. Liners are mostly a waste of money.
Did you watch cd 101?

sunshineinmay09 · August 2014

@totallyshocked the 7 part cloth diapering series on you tube is very informative as well.

Also,

Into+the+Kitty · August 2014

Chickypoo2468 said:

TJ1979 said:

Chickypoo2468 said:

I, for one, have not found a single pro. All cons. Yet I do it anyway just to spite myself. And because I'm so bored with this SAHM gig. What else am I going to do?

When I feel this way, getting a boyfriend on the side always spices things up.
You two are the cons of CDing.

Aww, I always considered myself a pro. Kind of like in Pretty Woman. Underneath everything. I secretly have a heart of gold.
I have this top. But in red and black.

MK, she clearly wears it as a dress. I think I just found your number one problem in trying to get someone on the side.

mrshudson618 · August 2014

totallyshocked said:

Whats confusing me the most in inserts vs flushable inserts vs prefolds..... Ive been googling for days and still a bit confused but I think like most of you said. To each their own. And do you all prefer hemp or A different fabric? You are so supportive and helpful!

@AFwifelife covered this mostly.

I prefer hemp as a doubler. We mainly use cotton prefolds, but I use a hemp insert as a doubler for ON, and I usually stuff our pockets with 1 hemp insert and either a bamboo or a microfiber insert. Hemp holds a lot, but doesn't absorb as quickly as other options, so not great on its own.

cedenton · August 2014

totallyshocked said:

Whats confusing me the most in inserts vs flushable inserts vs prefolds..... Ive been googling for days and still a bit confused but I think like most of you said. To each their own. And do you all prefer hemp or A different fabric? You are so supportive and helpful!!

TJ1979...flushable just means it's going to eff up your sewage system. And I think you mean flushable liners. They kind've defeat the "purpose" of CDing for environmental and cost reasons, but I know some people like them.

Inserts go inside pocket diapers or an AIO like Simplex with openings for extra absorption.

A pre-fold is more of an old school cloth diaper in that it's just a piece of fabric that you fold into a diaper and secure with a fastener. They require covers to be waterproof.

I think most people prefer hemp or bamboo for inserts because they're more absorbent than micro fiber. A lot of people don't like the feel of micro-fiber and it can't be placed next to baby's skin.

totallyshocked · August 2014

Okay Im so much less confused. So pretty much the preferred method seems to be pockets with inserts and you double for night or long trips. So with the hemp its best to use it with a backup that will absorb quicker..... correct me if im wrong. I might be just as excited about using cloth wipes too tho. I used only water and cloths with DD. So adding this all together is getting me excite. Just want to know mostly what to get to register before baby shower.

mrshudson618 · August 2014

totallyshocked said:
Okay Im so much less confused. So pretty much the preferred method seems to be pockets with inserts and you double for night or long trips. So with the hemp its best to use it with a backup that will absorb quicker..... correct me if im wrong. I might be just as excited about using cloth wipes too tho. I used only water and cloths with DD. So adding this all together is getting me excite. Just want to know mostly what to get to register before baby shower.

I'm not sure that I would say pockets are the most popular or preferred, but are a good middle of the road type.

Is there a CD store near you? The beat advice I can give is to go in person and see/touch everything before you decide.

TJ1979 · August 2014

We started out with all AIOs, at MH's preference. Then I bought a full stash of best bottoms. They are ai2s and they rock.

totallyshocked · August 2014

I just cant thank you all enough for your help. Hence why I came here. If I posted on another board it would just be bashing by Moms that probably haven't even tried them!! I think Ill be able to choose exactly which way to go once I am in front of them all. I was going to go by babies r us (not to buy because im sure that would be stupid) and look around. Any store with a better selection. Im in FL

Into+the+Kitty · August 2014

totallyshocked said:

I just cant thank you all enough for your help. Hence why I came here. If I posted on another board it would just be bashing by Moms that probably haven't even tried them!! I think Ill be able to choose exactly which way to go once I am in front of them all. I was going to go by babies r us (not to buy because im sure that would be stupid) and look around. Any store with a better selection. Im in FL

I actually haven't seen too much bashing on other boards. It's becoming a lot more mainstream.

mrshudson618 · August 2014

totallyshocked said:

I just cant thank you all enough for your help. Hence why I came here. If I posted on another board it would just be bashing by Moms that probably haven't even tried them!! I think Ill be able to choose exactly which way to go once I am in front of them all. I was going to go by babies r us (not to buy because im sure that would be stupid) and look around. Any store with a better selection. Im in FL

You aren't going to see much at BRU. They usually only have gdiapers and some Bum genius (and gerber prefolds, which are NOT sufficient to use as a diaper, only as a burp cloth)

The only way to see much in person is a specialty cloth diaper store, or something like a natural parenting store.

totallyshocked · August 2014

Guess I will google. Def didn't know they had stores that specialize in this. Very interesting!

freezorburn · August 2014

totallyshocked said:

Okay Im so much less confused. So pretty much the preferred method seems to be pockets with inserts and you double for night or long trips. So with the hemp its best to use it with a backup that will absorb quicker..... correct me if im wrong. I might be just as excited about using cloth wipes too tho. I used only water and cloths with DD. So adding this all together is getting me excite. Just want to know mostly what to get to register before baby shower.

You're not going to get a single answer on what is "preferred." Many people here like to have a variety of diapers in their stash.

Prefolds or flats w/ a cover is most economical. They will give you the best fit, especially when it comes to containing runny NB poo around skinny NB legs. Fitteds are also really good for this stage but cost a little more.

Pockets and AIOs are a bit easier for the diaper bag, when you don't have the same space to change your baby in a public restroom as at home. Also a bit easier for other caregivers who might be put off by the learning curve of prefolds and flats. The downside is that if you don't have a really good fit, you might be prone to leaks. Again, a good reason to have a varied stash, since your child may change shape while they are in diapers. In our case, DS was really slow to chunk up, so OS pockets and AIOs weren't really a reliable option for us until he was around 8-10 months old.

There are some specialty overnight fitteds if you have a heavy wetter/side sleeper, that will tend to leak less than others.

Laundry -- generally speaking, natural fibers launder a bit more easily. Thin layers and single layers also launder more easily.

candlequeen · August 2014

Maybe it's because I'm pregnant but this whole thread makes me tired. Also, @Chickypoo2468‌ I'll be your gf. And you don't have to date me

cedenton · August 2014

Unrelated to this post but I just learned Diaper Junction closed their retail store.

Now there's nothing near me.

Mandmeesh · August 2014

theultimatesak said:
You are not going to find anyone on this board that will tell you it's not 100% better to go with cloth over disposables. Try checking out the FAQ for links on more information, including some benefits to cloth

Wrong. Don't do it

CLLDLL · August 2014

Thanks for the callout @TJ1979 . I was being responsible and actually working at work.

I think the awesome ladies on here pretty much covered it. A varied stash is a great idea. Don't be afraid to start in the NB stage. Don't be afraid to buy used. Don't be afraid to buy something to try and sell it if you hate it.

A diaper trial is a good way to try several diaper types/ brands to help you decide what you like.

Flats are awesome. Seriously don't be afraid to try them early. Learning to fold them is NBD.

Pick a CD safe detergent that is easy for you to get at first rather than stressing over what's "best" because the answer to that is different for every washer/water/baby/diaper type/mommy combo. www.pinstripesandpolkadots.com has a really nice comparison of what level of safe different detergents are. If you have trouble come to us, we can help troubleshoot.

Good luck! I think you'll love it!!

candlequeen · August 2014

Chickypoo2468 said:

candlequeen said:
Maybe it's because I'm pregnant but this whole thread makes me tired. Also, @Chickypoo2468‌ I'll be your gf. And you don't have to date me
Wait. So you'll just come over when D isn't "in the mood"? And when I'm not in the mood for penis? That's a reeeeally long drive just for some booty

But I do also want a BF where we can just be like "want Taco Bell? I'll be right over" and have wine and cheese movie nights and go drive or just sit or have some cocktails then go do silly things. I miss that.

If I were rich and had my own plane maybe? $:\$ "> maybe we should pm now lol!

usernewname · August 2014

CON: needing to buy ONE more diaper to have 10 pockets - because having only 9 is bothering me. Or 3 more inserts to make 6. Because 6 is better than 3.

Or is it a con?

PipSqueak0313 · August 2014

I thought of another con.....I have 24 flats but only about half that number of pockets and covers so I end up with a stack of folded flats and nothing but a plastic bin to put them in......I've tried telling myself that about the time I have 24 pockets/covers will be the time he needs more than 1 flat at a time. Also @TJ1979‌ I'm kinda bummed, I tried using my BB inserts again to decide if I wanted to get large stay dry or hemp insets but they keep getting stuck under the agitator in my washer so until I find a way to stop it I'm unable to use BB inserts. (My wallet is not bummed with the idea that I just have to stick with my flats though)

usernewname · August 2014

Chickypoo2468 said:
You should always have 36 changes of every style. Bc you never know what life will throw at you.

Solid advice.

Now I should buy 27 more pockets then

stoneycakes · August 2014

candlequeen said:

Maybe it's because I'm pregnant but this whole thread makes me tired. Also, @Chickypoo2468‌ I'll be your gf. And you don't have to date me

CQ, at least make her buy you dinner first. You're a LADY!

freezorburn · August 2014

PipSqueak0313 said:

I thought of another con.....I have 24 flats but only about half that number of pockets and covers so I end up with a stack of folded flats and nothing but a plastic bin to put them in......I've tried telling myself that about the time I have 24 pockets/covers will be the time he needs more than 1 flat at a time. Also @TJ1979‌ I'm kinda bummed, I tried using my BB inserts again to decide if I wanted to get large stay dry or hemp insets but they keep getting stuck under the agitator in my washer so until I find a way to stop it I'm unable to use BB inserts. (My wallet is not bummed with the idea that I just have to stick with my flats though)

Can you stick your BB inserts in a wash bag like this? Would they still get stuck?

https://www.amazon.com/I-H-C-Sweater-Wash-Bag-White/dp/B002JDDIR8

Want a personalized experience?

To cloth or not?

Re: To cloth or not?

Choose Another Board

Search Boards