Disposable diapers make a great option for those busy working parents who struggle to manage time but transitioning to the usage of a cloth diaper for your little one has ample benefits.
It is not only budget-friendly but the natural fabric is soft & comfortable on your baby’s skin allowing room to breathe.
For those parents who are considering the switch to cloth diapering, the first step is to understand the different types of cloth diapers available.
Type of Cloth Diapers
The variety of cloth diapers include fitted, pocket cloth, all-in-one, and hybrid cloth ones.
1. Fitted
Fitted cloth diapers are similar to disposable diapers. They are not waterproof though. Such type of cloth diapers may have elastic at the waist to provide a ‘fitted’ look.
2. Pocket cloth
Pocket cloth diapers are similar to fitted diapers. What’s more, is that they come with a waterproof outer layer and also have internal pockets which can be stuffed with water-absorbent material.
3. All-in-one
An all-in-one diaper is an absorbent and waterproof cloth diaper that is sewn together to form a single piece. It has a waterproof outer layer and an absorbent inner layer.
4. Hybrid
Hybrid diapers may have a polyester layer fleece, making them water-resistant. Remember, there is a difference between water-resistant and water-proof, allowing air to flow through, though it can become wet.
Differentiating between cloth and disposable diapers
Cloth diapers costs less over time as compared to disposable diapers. Disposable diapers are known to add to landfill waste whereas cloth diapers cut down on landfill waste. In case, your little one’s skin is sensitive, cloth diapers are a safer option whereas disposable diapers may irritate sensitive skin. Disposable diapers may cause a leakage sometimes, whereas cloth diapers contain waste better.
People opt for cloth diapers as the inner lining is often made up of bamboo, cotton and similar natural fabrics. Whereas, disposable diapers may contain harmful chemicals which are potential skin irritants. In case, your baby developers a diaper rash, you will be limited to ointments and may switch to disposables for a brief period till the infection clears out.
Beginning with cloth diapering
It is all about understanding which type of cloth diaper will work for your little one. However, once you find the right type, it can be a great alternative to the disposable ones.
You may want to get started with your cloth diaper journey by purchasing and experimenting with a combination.
If you decide that cloth diapers work for you and your family, you should invest in a few detergents and supplies to make the cleansing process more efficient. Rinsing the solids out of the baby’s diaper and then into the toilet is considered more helpful as compared to other methods such as swishing the diaper in the toilet.
Assuming you aren’t going to use disposables, carrying a wet bag is essential to deal with the soiled cloth diapers.
Cleaning cloth diapers
If your baby has started eating solids, flush any solid waste in the toilet. However, if your little one is not on solids yet, this step may not be necessary. Once a diaper is dirty, you should rinse the cloth diaper under warm water immediately to prevent any stains.
Frequent washing also prevents any smells and bacterial build-up in the diapers. Use an extra rinse cycle along with a fabric friendly detergent to avoid any skin irritation. You may also want to add fabric softener and disinfectants to these washable diapers.
How many cloth diapers would you need every day?
The number may actually be dependent on the pooping habits of your baby. Though a rough estimate for babies is 10-12 times per day, in case of toddlers, the number range may vary between 6-8 times and when a child is being potty trained, up to 4 diapers per day may be required.
Cloth diapering becomes easier when you invest in some accessories which include a place to store the dirties, a wet bag to stash the soiled reusable diapers, and a cloth diaper safe detergent. Basic steps to Launder cloth diapers:
Remove the inserts from the reusable diapersUse the highest water level as allowed by the machine’s washerStart-off with a cold rinseRun a regular wash cycle after a cold rinse using 1/4 cup of detergentFollow it up with an extra rinse on cold so that all residual detergent is completely rinsedDry the diapers in the sunConcluding Thoughts
You don’t need to be an all or nothing hardcore cloth diaper user. As parents you may use cloth nappies in the initial weeks, then later on switch to cloth diapers. Some parents choose to use cloth nappies while at home and use cloth diapers while travelling.
Choose the option that deems fit for your family and don’t hesitate to consult your doctor for help if you find your baby being uncomfortable in a particular diaper type.
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