Cloth Diapering Version 3.0

[lml41981]

Welcome to the wonderful world of cloth diapering!
Here's a link to the first page of our old thread. (http://www.constantchatter.com/forum/showthread.php?t=23830)

Huge thanks to JanaMKE for compiling all of this info over on WC!!!

If you are cloth diapering your baby or interested in starting, you've got good company here!

Cloth diapering is a great way to help protect the environment from excess trash, save some money (or spend a lot of it in some cases), make your baby happy without paper and chemicals on it's bottom, and cover said bottom with some of the cutest stuff you've ever seen. It can be confusing to start, but some of us have gotten the hang of it... heck, even becoming nearly addicted to it... and we're here to help.

We've put together some resources to help you in starting out. The sheer volume of information on CD'ing out there can be overwhelming, so this is our attempt at condensing a lot of info into smaller, digestible portions. Once you've got the basics down, it becomes much easier to understand when someone wants to know if you stuff your HH's with a JB or a CPF.

So dive right in! If you have a question, please ask. Forgive us if we spend as much time showing off our new diapers as we do talking about what works best for nighttime diapering. CD'ing is more fun than any of us imagined it would be, and this thread may be the only place where other people actually understand that rather than thinking we're crazy!

~~~

A brief introduction to cloth diapers...

Most cloth diapers consist of 2 parts: the diaper (also sometimes called a soaker) and a waterproof cover (also sometimes called a wrap).

*All pro/con info nickisdiapers.com*

Diapers

Pre-Folds
CPFs or Chinese Prefolds: the flat diaper that comes to mind when you think of cloth diapering. These diapers come in bleached, unbleached, hemp, and organic cotton. To use them, they can either be folded in thirds and laid in a well-fitting cover, or they can be pinned or Snappi'd (a closure device) around the baby. These run about $2 each.
Pros
Most inexpensive cloth diapering option
Fastest drying
No need for as many different sizes
Versatile - can be used for other functions such as inserts/doublers, burp clothes, rags, etc.
Cons
Requires a diaper cover or diaper wrap
Requires some folding (may require some practice)
http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u61/lml41981/ChinesePrefold.jpg

Fitteds
Fitted Diapers serve the same purpose as CPF's, but you don't have to fold them around the baby. They close with either snaps or velcro, and have elastic around the legs to help keep in poops. You will still need a cover with these. Fitteds run anywhere from $6 on up to crazy amounts for the in-demand ones.

Pros
Still Convenient yet less expensive than All In One diaper
Easy to use
Very absorbent - great when used as a nighttime cloth diaper
Cons
Requires a diaper cover / diaper wrap
Usually takes longer to dry then a Chinese prefold diaper but dries faster than an All In One diaper (AIO)
Examples:
Kissaluvs
http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u61/lml41981/KL0.jpg
(Photo by KeliAnn)

BumGenius Bamboo Fitted
http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u61/lml41981/small.jpg

Contoured Diapers are similar to fitteds, but are flat like CPFs. Some may still need to be secured with pins or a Snappi.
http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u61/lml41981/kisscont.gif

[lml41981]

Covers
Used over Chinese prefold diapers and fitted diapers to waterproof. Diaper covers wrap around baby and secures with Velcro for easy use (no more pins!). Each diaper cover can be used several times without washing if allowed to air dry between uses. Covers or wraps go over the diaper to keep the clothes (and you) dry. Covers can be made out of several different materials, and range in price from $4.50 for Proraps seconds to very expensive custom wool covers.

PUL or Polyester Urethane Laminate is a fabric with a waterproofing laminate applied to it.

Examples:

Bummis
http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u61/lml41981/SuperWhisperWrapFroggy.jpg

Bumkins
http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u61/lml41981/DiaperCoverCatInTheHat.jpg

Prorap
http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u61/lml41981/Prorap.jpg
(Photo by KeliAnn)

Wiggle Worm Bottoms
http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u61/lml41981/WWB.jpg
(Photo by KeliAnn)

[lml41981]

Fleece
Fleece has many uses in diapering. As a cover, it keeps moisture inside the soaker. Fleece is 100% polyester, which means it is not absorbent. It breathes, like wool and let's air through but resists the moisture from coming out.

Example:
Sugar Peas
http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u61/lml41981/625.jpg

Stacinator Deluxe
http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u61/lml41981/stac-fleece-covers-det.jpg

Wool
Aristocrats Wool Knit
http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u61/lml41981/aristo.jpg

LovelyBums
http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u61/lml41981/woolcoverspic2.jpg

Cranky Pants Shorties
http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u61/lml41981/vid281_id343_1.jpg

Llamajama Handknit Wool Longies
http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u61/lml41981/zoo20longies20400.jpg

[lml41981]

Pockets
Pocket diapers are a unique kind of system. They consist of a cover connected to a soft liner, with a pocket between for stuffing with a soaker (either a CPF or other insert). They are open in the back for inserting and removing the soaker. They are popular for nighttime diapering because they can absorb a lot (depending on what they are stuffed with) and the liner keeps the baby feeling dry. These are about $15-$17

Pros:
Fast drying
Gives a very trim fit
Most like an all-in-one diaper making it convenient

Cons:
Pocket diaper cover needs to be washed after every use
Requires simple folding of Chinese prefold diaper before inserting into pocket diaper cover unless you use a specially designed insert
Need to "stuff" each pocket diaper cover with Chinese prefold diaper or specially designed insert

Examples:
Fuzzi Bunz
http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u61/lml41981/FuzziBunz.jpg
(Photo by KeliAnn)

Happy Heiny
http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u61/lml41981/HHbluegreenpaisley.jpg

bumGenius! one-size
http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u61/lml41981/bumGenius-sizes-grasshopper.jpg

Snap-Ez
http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u61/lml41981/ff4.jpg

Fuzzi Fannies
http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u61/lml41981/thchocolateflower.jpg

[lml41981]

AIOs (All-In-Ones)
AIO diapers have an inner absorbent layer attached to an outer waterproof layer with adjustable closures (either Velcro® or snaps). All-in-one diapers are just like disposable diapers except you wash them! AIO's run from $10 to $20 each, and more for the in-demand ones.

Pros:
Most convenient
Easiest to use
Most like disposables diapers (trimmest fit on baby's butt)

Cons:
One of the most expensive options
Usually takes the longest to dry (drying time varies greatly between brands)

Examples:
Bum-Ware
http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u61/lml41981/Dipepic.jpg

Very Baby
http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u61/lml41981/verybasicaio.jpg

Jamtots Berry Plush
http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u61/lml41981/flash.jpg

Daisy Doodles Bikini Bottoms
http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u61/lml41981/bluebatikfrnt.jpg

BumGenius
http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u61/lml41981/bumGenius-All-In-One-diagram-400.jpg

[lml41981]

Accessories

Doublers
Used to increase the absorbancy of a diaper. They are simply laid into the main part of the diaper. Assorted examples:
http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u61/lml41981/inserts.jpg
(Photo by KeliAnn)

Liners
can serve 2 purposes. They can be laid in a diaper to keep moisture away from the baby (these are usually made of microfleece), or they can be laid in the diaper to catch poop and help to easily remove it from the diaper.
Example: Imse Vimse Flushable Diaper Liners,

Snappis or Pins are used to close contours and CPFs.
Snappi
http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u61/lml41981/NewSnappi.jpg

Pail Liners
Examples:
NappSacks
http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u61/lml41981/A12.jpg
Snap-Ez, Wahmies

Wet Bags
Examples:
Wahmies
http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u61/lml41981/WahmiesWetBag.jpg

Wipes Solution
Examples:
Baby Bits, Dixie Dots
http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u61/lml41981/babybits.jpg

[lml41981]

Cloth Diapering Links

Informational Sites:
www.diaperpin.com
http://www.thediaperhyena.com/
http://www.diaperpages.com/ a very smart CDing momma!!

Diaper Reviews:

www.diaperpin.com/diapers/diaperpages.asp

Favorite CD sites:
www.breesbums.com
www.naturalbabies.com
www.babiesinthesun.com
www.nickisdiapers.com
www.kellyscloset.com
www.kissaluvs.com/outlet.htm for Kissaluvs seconds
www.fullmoonbabygear.com
www.hyenacart.com WAHM store, hundreds of stores!
www.thatfatbaby.com/wahmlinks.html for a list of WAHM sites
www.apronstringsbabythings.com/
www.sweetcheeksdiapers.com
www.borntolove.com/catalog.html
www.jardinediapers.com
www.earthybirthymama.com
www.benjamuffins.com Great fitteds!
www.nanipoos.com More great fitteds!
www.growmearainbow.com for custom prefolds!

www.funkygiraffe.com Cute wipes!
www.happytushies.com Wet bags for on the go.

Message Board & Great place to buy used
www.diaperswappers.com
www.diapertraders.com

Sites for sewing your own diapers:
www.sewshoppe.com/
www.diapershop.com/
www.diaperfabric.com/
www.diapersewing.com/
www.diapersewing.com/prefold_to_fitted.htm

Sites for knitting/crocheting your own wool soakers
www.littleturtleknits.com
www.holysheepyarns.com
www.diaperpages.com

CLOTH DIAPERING ABBREVIATIONS
General Diaper Abreviations...

AIO: All In One Diaper (absorbant and waterproof layers)
APLIX: brand of hook and loop, similar to velcro
CD: Cloth Diaper, of course!
AIO: All-in-one diaper, doesn't need a cover
CPF: Chinese Pre-Fold
DSQ: Diaper Service Quality (a term for a high-quality prefold)
IPF: Indian Prefold
OS: One Size
PUL: Polyurethane Laminate
SC: Suedecloth (stay dry inner fabric)
TTO: Tea Tree Oil
UBCPF: Unbleached Chinese Prefolds
WAHM: Work at home mom, makers of cute homemade diapers

Specific Diaper Abbreviations...

BSWW: Bummis Super Whisper Wrap
CRAT: Aristocrat
FB: Fuzzi Bunz
GAD: Green Acre Designs
FF: Fuzzi Fannies
HH: Happy Heiny's
JB: Joey Bunz
ME: Motherease
MOE: Mother of Eden (maker of FB's)
WWB: Wiggle Worm Bottoms
SOS: Susie's One Size
BGOS: BumGenius One Size
BGAIO: BumGenius All-in-One
BGBF: BumGenius Bamboo Fitted

[lml41981]

Getting Started - What Do I Need?

The first thing you need to do is decide how often you want to wash diapers. Most people wash them every 3-4 days, or about twice a week. The next thing you have to decide is what types of diapers you want to use and what brands you want to use. Because different types and different brands work best for different babies, a good idea would be to buy a few samples of diapers and covers and try them. Once you decide which you like best, you can buy more of your favorites. You can sell the ones you don't like on eBay or trade with other CD'ing moms.

When you baby is small (birth-4 months), you'll be changing diapers about 8-12 times per day. Older babies need fewer changes.

2-4 dozen diapers - these can be CPF's, fitteds, contours, AIOs, whatever you like best for your baby. The number of diapers depends on how often you want to launder them. If you're going with CPFs, 4x8x4 infant size or a mix of preemie and infant sizes are recommended for newborns. By about 4 months you may need some premium size CPFs.
4-6 covers

Really, that's it! You can successfully cloth diaper your little one with just what's listed above. Here are some extras that make diapering easier:

Accessories

A few doublers (more for heavy wetters and older babies) - you'll see if you really need them when the baby gets here. Preemie or infant size CPFs make great doublers.
Pins and/or Snappis if you're using CPFs
Microfleece liners to keep baby feeling dry. You can buy these premade, or purchase some microfleece at your local fabric store and cut them out yourself.
Cloth wipes - again, you can buy these premade or make them yourself out of baby washcloths or cut up flannel receiving blankets.
Diaper pail - any pail really, from the Diaper Champ to a garbage pail with a lid.
Washable wet bag - to line the diaper pail with.

How do I know what works best?

"Fitteds or AIOs? Prefolds or fitteds? Wool or Fleece??" There is no right or wrong answer to these questions. What might be the holy grail of cloth diapers for one mom may not work for you. Choosing a diapering system depends heavily on your baby's needs & your own personal preference. Don't feel the need to buy the perfect system right off the bat - part of the fun of cloth diapering is sampling all of the many choices!

Buy an AIO, buy a pocket style diaper, buy a few fitteds, sample some wool covers, try some PUL wraps. Try making some of every kind if you have a sewing machine. Keep what you love & get more. Sell or trade what doesn't work for you. Some people exclusively use one system. Some of us like to have a wide variety. Dive in and find out what works for you.

Cost

The cheapest way to cloth diaper is to use CPFs and covers. Don't be afraid to try CPFs, many moms LOVE them. They dry quickly, rival the most absorbant fitted, they're very trim, and they're cheap too. AIO's are great for going out and babysitters, so you may want to get a couple of these just to have around.

A good cost calculator for cloth diapering can be found here:

www.diaperpin.com/calculator/calculator.asp

For more info on getting started, see these links:

www.diapershop.com/howmany.htm
http://www.punkinbutt.com/cloth_diap....asp#how_many?
__________________

[lml41981]

Laundering & Care Instructions

After You Change Your Baby
- if it's wet, just toss it in your can.
- if it's a "creamy" poo (like bf poo), you may opt to toss it in your can, or you may rinse it.
- if it's a harder poo, and can be shaken off into the toilet, do so (works well with fleece lined diapers, or with a liner).
- if you can't shake it off, you should rinse.

To rinse, just fold the diaper in a way that you feel you can hold it and rinse it (without getting yourself too mucky), by swirling it in the toilet. You can also purchase a mini-shower, which attaches to the plumbing of the toilet and makes rinsing easy as well.

Make your own wipes solution. (http://fuzbaby.com/articles/makeyourown_laundrycleaners.htm)

To Store the Dirty Diapers
You can store them in a wet pail or a dry pail.
- In a wet pail, you may wish to change to the water each day. You can use any plastic container that has a lid, or your washing machine, or perhaps utility tub, if you wish.
- In a dry pail, line the container with a bag, either disposable or laminate/plastic (can purchase from many CD retailers). You can use any can with a lid, or a diaper can like the Diaper Champ or the Diaper Dekor.

Storing on the Go
It's just as easy to use CDs out and about! Keep a ziploc bag in your dipaer bag for storing dirties on the go. Or for a more earth friendly option, invest in a small washable wet bag. When you get home, add the dirties to your pail and your done!

Make your own deodorant disks. (http://fuzbaby.com/articles/makeyourown_laundrycleaners.htm#deodisks)

Washing the Diapers
There are a lot of different ways of doing this, you'll eventually find what works best for you.

- Cold Soak (optional, and not necessary if you have a wet pail) - Soak the diapers, to help remove, or minimize stains.

- Cold Wash (optional) - Wash the diapers to help remove/minimize stains. You may wish to add a scoop of an oxygen bleach (like Oxyclean), and 1/2 to 1 scoop of detergent.

- Hot Wash (recommended) - Wash the diapers in hottest water, on the longest setting with 1/2 to 1 cup of detergent. Choose a cold water rinse. The amount of detergent will depend on your water and your washing machine, you just have to experiment. In general, use as little as you think does the job. You could also choose to add vinegar in the rinse cycle (a Downy ball works great!).

- Dry the diapers in the dryer on a regular setting. You may wish to hang laminates/PULs, to prolong the life of the plastic. You may also find that hanging diapers to dry in the sun works great, as it can remove stains.

Suggested Detergents
Detergent Chart (http://www.pinstripesandpolkadots.com/detergentchoices.htm)
-Allens Naturally
-Charlies Soap
-Sun Free
-Surf
Avoid scented detergents or those with fabric softener included.
Avoid fabric softener, it interferes with absorbtion.
Avoid chlorine bleach.

Fleece Diapers - can get linty if you wash them with your CPFs and such. You may wish to wash them seperately.



Wool Cover Care
Instructions vary for each manufacturer, but in general, you can wash wool covers in your machine.

- wash the covers in cold water (or lukewarm) and add a lid of Eucalan Wool Wash. Let them soak for about 30 minutes, then run a gentle cycle. Stop the cycle before the rinse and hang them to dry.

- You can hand wash them as well, if you just have a couple to do. Fill a sink with cool water, add the Eucalan, put in the covers and let them soak. Swirl them around and roll them in a towel to soak up extra water. Hang to dry.

- Do not use Woolite, as it will strip the lanolin from the dipe. Some moms use shampoo or a mild cleanser, but Eucalan has lanolin in it and will help the repelency of your dipes.

Re-lanolizing a Wool Cover

There are several ways to do this, here is one example.
Use 1/2-1 teaspoon liquid lanolin in a sink full of room temp./slightly warm water with a drop or two of baby shampoo to help it disperse. Let cover soak as long as desired, but not until the water gets cold. Drain water so it all gets pull through the wool. Roll in a towel to remove excess water. Lay flat to dry.

Stripping Stinky Dipes

Janamke’s process (lots out there, check mothering.com for more)

Start with clean diapers (don’t have to be dry, just no poops). Turn your hot water heater up as HOT is it will go, this will help:

A normal wash routine, only using Calgon water softener per box directions (I think it’s 1 cup). Yes it smells, but they say it's ok. Don’t need to dry after the wash.

Then with just the cloth pieces (nothing with PUL) soak and prewash cycles with 1/2 cup bleach. If you don’t have soak cycle, just turn your machine off mid-cycle and let is sit for about 20 minutes. For the prewash, just do the shortest possible wash cycle.

Then run the dipes through several wash cycles without detergent, just calgon until there are no more bubbles in the wash water. Usually 3 or 4 cycles.

For PUL stuff that smelled (FB, covers, etc.), use 1/4 cup bleach, a soak, a prewash and 2 wash cycles.
__________________

[lml41981]

Diaper Rash Information


TWO MAIN FACTORS

Diarrhea has been found to be the cause of diaper rash in 70-80% of cases. Liquid stool spreads over a wide area and is very irritating to the skin

Infrequent diaper changes make it difficult for the skin to protect itself from the many causes of irritation in the diaper area, including diarrhea and others listed below. Frequent changes will minimize the effects of all irritants.

OTHER FACTORS & TYPES OF RASH

Prolonged and/or frequent exposure to feces can cause rash. The mixture of urine and feces produces ammonia (high pH), which increases fecal enzyme activity, making the skin more susceptible to damage.

Hydration of skin – Urine alone does not generally damage skin, but if skin is allowed to become hydrated (filled with liquid), it is more easily damaged by irritants such as friction, chemicals or microbes. (i.e., bacteria or yeast).

Friction – When baby is mobile and the diaper rubs on wet skin, it will sometimes result in a rash. (Redness will be seen where chafing is greatest, but not in the baby’s skin folds).

Yeast or fungus infection – The main cause of severe diaper rash is infection of the skin with Candida, an organism found in feces of infants (this is more likely to happen if the child is taking antibiotics). This rash is bright red and tender, with distinct edges, and appears in the creases between the abdomen and thighs, with small red spots or pustules close to the large patches.

Heat inside the diaper may cause heat rash and may increase the growth of microbes such as yeast or bacteria. Some types of rash (e.g., impetigo) are most common in warm conditions.

Allergens and irritants – Some possible allergens and irritants are: baby wipes, plastic, chemicals, perfumes, perfumes, chlorine bleach, residues/ingredients in some detergents, fabric softeners, and paraben (a preservative in some creams and ointments).

Diet and age - Some studies have found less rash with breastfed babies than with formula-fed babies. Also, introduction of new foods can sometimes give feces higher pH and cause a rash (usually around the anus), which is possibly the reason the diaper rash peaks at 7 - 15 months.

Susceptibility - Some babies are simply more prone to rash than others.

Teething - and the common cold have been reported to cause diaper rash.

Aggressive and/or frequent cleansing of the diaper area with soap or disposable baby wipes can damage skin. Insufficient cleaning can also contribute to rash.

Other forms of rash in the diaper area are: seborrheic dematitis (may be accompanied by "cradle cap" on the scalp), intertrigo (from skin rubbing on skin, in the creases), impetigo (caused by bacteria), psoriasis and scabies.

TO KEEP BABIES SKIN HEALTHY

On average, a baby’s diaper should be checked for wetness every hour. Newborn babies urinate 8 - 20 times a day (average 10 - 12). This gradually decreases to 7 - 10 times a day at 12 months of age and 5 - 8 times a day as they reach toilet-training age.

Gentle wiping of baby’s bottom with a clean, warm wet cloth is recommended at every diaper change for newborns, several times a day for older babies. Let baby’s skin dry before applying a clean diaper.

Creams and moisture barriers (e.g., petroleum jelly) need not be used with every diaper change. Generally, after the bath and/or before bed is sufficient. It is good to let skin "breathe." Skin must be clean before applying a moisture barrier. Powders and cornstarch can accidentally be inhaled by baby and probably should not be used.

Diapers containing feces: Gently wipe feces off baby with the inside of the diaper (or stay-dry liner). Use toilet paper if necessary. Wipe girls from front to back to avoid vaginal infection. Wash baby’s bottom gently but thoroughly with warm water and a soft cloth (fold and use a clean part of the cloth each time you wipe). If you use soap, use a mild one and rinse it completely off.

If baby has diarrhea or a cold or is teething a moisture barrier (e.g., petroleum jelly) should be applied to the skin after cleaning and drying it well.

Diaper liners made of non-absorbent fabric such as polyester, will help keep wetness away from baby’s skin, and may reduce mixture of urine and feces.

Air baby’s bottom in a warm place after bathtime (or any convenient time). The use of plastic on the outside of the diaper tends to hide the evidence that a change is necessary, and tends to prevent evaporation and raise the temperature on baby’s skin.

This can cause general discomfort in warm conditions, and may increase growth of bacteria, fungi or yeast if present. The use of breathable waterproof diaper covers over cloth, may help prevent diaper rash, and is especially recommended if baby develops a yeast infection. Breathable waterproof covers do not necessarily reduce wetness on baby’s skin while the diaper is wet, but they do help prevent the build up of heat inside the diaper as well as aid in moisture evaporation.

For night diapering, ensure the diaper has adequate absorbency. Cloth diapers usually require the addition of an insert or two (or double diapering if using traditional flat diapers). Use of a non-absorbent inner liner next to baby’s skin is especially recommended for night. Apply a moisture barrier (e.g., petroleum jelly) to reduce hydration of the skin with urine during the night, and protect skin from irritants.

If baby’s skin is healthy, changing a wet diaper in the middle of the night is not generally necessary if the diaper is absorbent enough, as most of the moisture will be drawn away from the baby’s skin. Also as the baby is relatively immobile, there is not much friction on the skin.

If baby has a persistent rash, a 3 a.m. check may be advisable.

IF A RASH DEVELOPS

If diaper rash develops, let baby go without a diaper for one to three hours a day. For young babies, put them on the diaper Instead of in the diaper (make sure the room is warm). For older, more mobile babies, try to keep them in a non-carpeted area, or wait until nap time. (If urine gets in the carpet, baking soda or rug cleaning foam can be used to treat odors and stains). The next most airy option is to put baby into a cloth diaper alone (without a cover). Using a breathable waterproof cover over top is also an option that will allow some air in and out.

It is important to air baby’s bottom when a mild rash appears, to allow healing. Once skin becomes irritated, it is more susceptible to further irritation. Organisms that cause severe rash (e.g., yeast) do not generally infect healthy skin; however if present in the feces, they can infect damaged skin.

Avoid use of disposable baby wipes if baby has a rash. If allergies are suspected, eliminate possible allergens until the rash clears. Then introduce one possible allergen each week , so allergies can be detected. If in doubt, discuss this with your doctor.

Often a diaper rash cream or ointment will help clear up a rash within a day or two (consult with your pharmacist or health nurse for a recommended brand). If ointment is difficult to remove, use olive oil or baby oil on a cotton ball.

Consult a physician if a rash worsens or persists for more than three or four days, or if skin is broken or develops pimples, pustules or blisters. Prescription creams or medicine may be required to clear some types of rash (e.g., yeast infection)

IF A RASH PERSISTS

If a rash persists, or keeps coming back you may consider changing other things besides wet diapers. If your baby is under six months of age a regular detergent may be to harsh; try a specially formulated detergent like Dreft or try Ivory Snow (for clothes, not diapers) which is a soap (at least one extra rinse is necessary to remove soap residue). If your baby is older than six months try changing to a different detergent, and/or add a cup of vinegar to the final rinse (to lower pH and help remove detergent residues if present)[/quote]

CD Safe Diaper Creams:
- Burt's Bees Diaper Ointment
- Weleda Diaper Care Cream
- Aveeno
***Avoid any products that contain fish oil (such as Desitin) as these will stain and stink up your dipes!

[lml41981]

The last post in the old thread wasn't really on topic, but jh124 was curious about the drama going on at DS. Apparently there was a rash of bannings related to the spinoff to DiaperTraders and another mothering-type website. Also their mod forum was accidentally opened up to one of their users...coincidentally a user that they joked about beating with golf clubs and baseball bats. :eek:

Curiosity alleviated? ;)

The last on topic post was about good websites to sell old diapers. I suggested both DiaperSwappers and DiaperTraders. :)

[nuhmah]

yay for a new thread!

I have a question... I keep reading about people using TTO to wash diapers to help keep stinkies at bay. Is this really necessary? I haven't noticed any real stink problems, and I wash diapers every other day. Also, where can I get some (if I decide to use it).

[Marisa]

nuhmah - I found TTO at Whole Foods, but I don't really believe it's necessary. I had good luck with just baking soda in the cold soak cycle (either dumped in at the time, or put in the diaper bag with the dirties to soak up the smell) and then a 1/2 cup of white vinegar in the fabric softener dispenser for the final hot wash/cold rinse.

[nuhmah]

Everyone seems to use vinegar at different points in their wash! (insert "dizzy" smilie. ;) ) I have read about some people using vinegar in the cold soak/wash, and others using it in the final rinse, etc. I have been using vinegar in the cold wash, and then Planet liquid detergent in the hot wash (with a double cold rinse). Am I doing this all backwards?

[Marisa]

I've long since learned not to give advice on washing -- so much depends on your water, whether it's hard, soft, where it comes from...

All I know is that the BS/vinegar combo seems to work for us, I know I read that it restores the pH levels and that's a good thing... that's as far as I'll go. :)

[nuhmah]

LOL, I understand! There are too many variables in washing dipes... I guess when you find a system that works for you, you should stick with it. Maybe I should follow my own advice. ;)

[magrat]

Does anyone have any suggestions for a diaper pail? I have already ordered a pail liner, but what should I use for a pail? I'm thinking something cheap from Target, but what kind of lid should I look for? It's going to be kept in the nursery so I definitely want something that will keep out smells.

[Marisa]

Mine's a regular plastic garbage can from target, I think it's 13 gallons? It has a step to lift the lid. Once the pail liner is in, it forms a pretty tight seal and we haven't had trouble with odor.

[lml41981]

MagRat, I just got the MOE liners that you can use in a pail or snap around a doorknob. It has a terry sachet for TTO or any other odor masking EO you care to use. So long as we get rid of solid poops and wash regularly, we have no stinkies.

[KeliAnn]

YAY for a new thread! Now, I can finally post without feeling completely overwhelmed. ;)

First of all, thank you LML for the intro info!

We have a baby girl due in 5 weeks, and after much research on CC and DiaperSwappers and lots of FSOT hunting, I've got my newborn and infant stash done. We're going with cpfs & fitteds + covers. I have a couple of pockets and AIOs to try out, but I'm trying to keep the initial investment at a minimum until we figure out what works best for us. I still need to get a pail liner and a couple of wetbags for my diaper bag, but other than that, I'm all set. I really appreciate the previous CD threads on here, because I honestly couldn't have wrapped my head around the idea of CDing without them.

I thought I'd also post a couple of cute pictures of me as a kid in a CD - waaaay before they had all the cute options they have now.
http://www.kenandkeli.com/images/fatkeli.jpg

http://www.kenandkeli.com/images/livejournal/littlekelileaving.jpg

Apparently, I decided to run away from home - and my mom wasn't too worried since she took a picture. :p

[lml41981]

I have a favor to ask of everyone... The photos in the info section of this thread are on my own host, which is fine...but because I didn't take them, I don't officially own the copyright. In order to keep it from being an issue for CC or for me, I would like to replace the photos from the front page with photos that we have taken ourselves and that I have permission from you to post.

The categories for which we need photos are as follows:
Prefolds (I can take a photo of mine)
Fitteds (I don't have KL0s, so if someone could take a photo of those, I'd appreciate it... I can take a photo of my Thirsties, BGBFs, Bamboozle, SOS and Motherease Sandy)
Contours (I need someone else to take a photo of these)
Covers (I have BSWWs, but if others could take photos of their Thirsties covers, Proraps or other covers, that would be great)
Fleece covers
Wool covers (I can take a photo of my Llamajama longies, but if someone could take a photo of shorties and maybe an interlock wool cover or something, I'd appreciate it)
Pockets (I can take a photo of my HH, Swaddlebees, BGOS and Haute Pockets, but if someone wants to photo their FBs that is fine)
AIOS (I can take a photo of my BGAIO and my MonkeyDoodlez...if you have others, great!)
Doublers (maybe a photo lined up like this one...if you've got microterry doublers and hemp, that would be wonderful...)
Liners (need someone else to photo this one)
Snappi (I can do this)
Pail liners/wet-bags (if someone has cute ones, I'd love to use those...I have boring MOE ones)
BabyBits

You can PM me any photos you have that you're cool with us using. I can either host them or link from your host, whichever works. Your baby does not have to be in the diaper if you are not comfortable with that.

Thanks!

[KeliAnn]

LML: I am sending you ...

KL0s
FB
Wiggle Worm Bottoms cover
Mother of Eden microterry inserts
Cotton Babies One Size microfiber insert
Happy Heiny hemp stuffins w/ oval inserts

HTH!

[anemone]

Has anyone used the Bumgenius 2.0?

I've used FB's exclusively as my pocket option, but I have a friend that I've convinced to CD her newborn, and she's interested in them for the economy of supposedly using them from birth to potty training. I've looked up Diaperpin.com, and the reviews seem pretty good, but does anyone have any opinion, and whether they really work on a NB? I was thinking that they'd require a lot of folding for a NB judging by the size of my FB smalls to Larges.

keliann great photos!

[Megande]

Has anyone used the Bumgenius 2.0?

I have 6 of them and absolutely love them. They are hands down my favorite CD. I didn't get them until DS was about 16 months old, though, so I can't say anything about how they work for an infant. They are *tiny* in the infant size, though. I have one friend who used them from birth with her son and loved them. I have two friends that have some trouble with leaks with them on the "medium" setting. For NBs, I am a prefold and covers kind of gal, but I will be trying the BGs with #2 when he/she arrives.

[mimieliza]

I looooove my six BG 2.0s. I also have six 1.0s. They fit pretty well starting when M was about 10 lbs. I wouldn't count on them to be used on a tiny newborn. I used KL 0s for the newborn stage.

[NYN]

I am starting to hate my 1.0s (I don't own any 2.0s). I am having leaking issues again (although I am starting to think it may be my new washing machine combined w/ the fact that DH is now the person doing the laundry) and the thread on the gussets is starting to come loose on two dipes, and after close examination, it looks like another three might be going the same route. I can just run them through my sewing machine but hello, I should not have to do that w/ $17 diapers I've had for only 5 months?!

[mimieliza]

I kind of hate my 1.0s as well. They are still working okay, but I have to be careful and not use them for naps, nights or long car trips or I will get leaks. They also look pretty bad. I do really love the 2.0s, and they are leak-proof. I'm going to see how they hold up, and if they hold up better I'll just gradually replace the 1.0s with 2.0s as the 1.0s wear out.

[nuhmah]

Has anyone used the Bumgenius 2.0?

I sold all of my FB's and switched to BG 2.0's for my daytime diaper. I really like them! :)

[anemone]

Thank you for your quick replies. I'll certainly let her know that you all gave the 2.0's a good rating:)

[jh124]

Coming in late, but I love my bumGenius 2.0s!! I have a ton of 1.0s and can't justify buying anymore diapers for this kid. However, for the next one, I'm getting at least one dozen 20s.:D

lml- Thanks for the backstory. I'm not on there often enough to know all the goings on. I'd buy way too much stuff.

I just bought five more joey bunz to stuff with. I love them, they work for us, the price was right. No more diapers for us! Not unless this kid outgrows them between now and the potty.

Current stash (approx, since I'm at work):

2 dozen premium prefolds
10 large covers (mostly prowraps)
2 large bamboo BG fitteds
1 Angel Luv large wool cover (blaming lml)
16 bumGenius 1.0s
2 BG 2.0s
12 Fuzzi Bunz petites
35 cottonbabies one size stuffers
15 little lambs hemp stuffers
12 joey bunz hemp stuffers (m & l)
3 happy heinys inserts
3 bigger weeds inserts
3 fleece/hemp layered stuffins
12 large fuzzi bunz (brand new, not big enough yet, and he's so skinny, he might never fit in them)

For next kid (someday):

2 dozen infant prefolds
2 covers
12 medium fuzzy bunz

And that, my friends, is why I'm avoiding diaperswappers.com. :o

Really, who needs this much crap for a kid who is only cloth diapered part time? It's nice when he's sick for a week at a time, and we have plenty of cloth to go the entire week w/o doing laundry. However, most of the time he's been out for a week, it's been with a stomach bug, and I don't want that shit in my diapers (no pun intended.)

I also have about 12 diapers/wrappers to donate to Miracle Diapers. If I ever get off my bum and send them, that is.

[silentbunny]

hi all! I have a question or two and I hope you can help me. I am expecting my first little dude at the end of August and would like to cloth diaper. So far, what I've seen that appeals to me most are the BumGenius 2.0s. I already know that my boy will be measuring big, and that he has large kidneys (something we are going to need to monitor after he is born).

When using AIOs like the BG 2.0, where would I put a doubler thingee? Do they have pockets I am not aware of, or does it go right in the inside of the diaper? Also, do AIOs ever need covers?

Tanks in advance -- it's all a little overwhelming!

[mimieliza]

silentbunny - It's confusing, because there are two types of BumGenius 2.0s. The first is an AIO, and it comes in different sizes (so you would have to buy a new set of diapers as your child grew). That is a true AIO - it is all you would need - no extra stuffers or covers needed!

The other type of BumGenius 2.0 (which is what most of us here have and are talking about) is called a pocket diaper. It requires an absorbent stuffer, but does not require a cover. If you buy it new, it will come with a microfiber stuffer. The stuffer goes into a pocket in the back of the diaper. This BumGenius is one size. I found that it really didn't fit my daughter until she was about 10 lbs., but in theory it should last until potty-training.

[anemone]

silentbunny you might want to buy extra hemp stuffers for your DC for use with the pocket Bumgenius 2.0's. I found that my DS was a super soaker as a NB, and a microfibre insert wasn't enough. I used a microfibre insert and a hemp stuffer together in the pocket and found it worked better for us. Just something to keep in mind.

[silentbunny]

Thank you both so much. I had no idea there were 2 kinds of BG 2.0s...how confusing is that?!?

Off to do more research...

[Kanga]

i haven't tried the bg 2.0 (one size) on my nb recently, but when I had it on her at ~2 weeks it was ridiculously bulky. I do however like it on my 1 1/2 yr old toddler. I don't love it because it has velcro rather than snaps which she has learned to take off so on the days I use a BG, I have to actually get the kid dressed.

[NYN]

i haven't tried the bg 2.0 (one size) on my nb recently, but when I had it on her at ~2 weeks it was ridiculously bulky. I do however like it on my 1 1/2 yr old toddler. I don't love it because it has velcro rather than snaps which she has learned to take off so on the days I use a BG, I have to actually get the kid dressed.
My DD does this w/ the velcro. I bought her Elmo underwear and put them on over the diaper and it takes the focus off of removing the diaper (of course then she wants to show everyone her undies but that is a different story). :D

[jenji]

Question about Washing machines

right now we have a very low-end washer that has no pre-soak, pre-rinse, extra rinse, extra spin or anything like that, just wash, rinse, spin. It's also in the basement so not terribly convenient for hopping in every 10 minutes to change a cycle.
I've convinced DH that we need a new washer with the baby and hense CDs on the way. I would really like a HE front-loader (especially one with an internal heater for sanitizing) but I've had a couple people tell me that you shouldn't use them for CDs because you can't really soak well in them. I just wanted to come to the experts and ask what kind of washer do you have/would you recommend for CDing?

[jh124]

Question about Washing machines



I would love an HE washer, but I have also read it's not a great washer for CDs. You can't really soak diapers. You can't do a rinse only cycle (i.e. you could rinse and hold your dipes if there wasn't a "soak" feature on the machine.

We bought our washer four years ago, when HE washers were really high end. We got a top load Maytag for about half the price of an HE washer. It's worked great on our dipes and regular laundry. We have the energy saver feature. No complaints here.

Think about how long you'll have it, what you will wash in it, and what your expectations are. Then go shopping. You may or may not end up with an HE.

[mimieliza]

After reading about people's struggles with HE washers for dipes, I would go for a high end traditional washer rather than an HE. HE washers wash with very little water - fine for clothes, but I don't trust it for dipes.

My washer is mid-level, but it doesn't have an option for extra rinse or pre-soak. I do a short (four minute) cold wash with bleach and then a long (10 minute) hot wash with detergent. But it does mean an extra trip down to the laundry room. Even with two washes per load for dipes, my water bill has gone up maybe two bucks a month since having a baby.

[anemone]

I have a front loader, that uses minimal water, and have never had a problem with it. It is not an HE though. It has a "super rinse" setting to detect detergent and dirt residue at the end and adjust the amount of water accordingly. Also, it is usual that a front loader takes a lot longer to wash the clothing than a top loader (ie my CD's take 2.5 hours v's 45 minutes in a top) as while it uses less water, the agitation cycle is a lot longer, which takes out the actual stuff in the CD's. Water alone or lots of it, doesn't do this without agitation. I've washed my CD's in my MIL's Maytag top loader, and in actual fact, I think my washer is MUCH better at getting them clean, and not using as much detergent to do it. I do, however wash much hotter than the manufacturers instructions tell you to on my FB's........

FWIW, I've never used the soak option for my front loader either....and my CD's are always clean. Oh, and I've NEVER had to strip my diaps as well:)

[silentbunny]

Question abut the BG 2.0 AIO's versus Pockets -- what is the advantage to the pocket diapers, besides the sizing? It seems like the AIO's would be easier and are even a little bit cheaper -- is it just because, theoretically, you only have to buy them once?

[mimieliza]

You would have two buy three or more sizes of the BG AIOs as your child grows, whereas you only need one size of the pockets because they are adjustable.

Also, you can customize the absorbency of the pockets by putting more or fewer stuffers in the pocket (for example, I use one microfiber stuffer during the day and two at night).

Another thing I like about pockets compared to AIOs is the faster drying time.

[silentbunny]

Cool. Good to know, thank you.

Okay, one more, and then I will lay off -- if I am using pocket diapes, I don't HAVE to use CPFs, correct? I can use other stuffers instead? (Or are they in addition?)

*I can't believe how much of an idiot I feel like about this whole CD business.*

[Sarah]

right now we have a very low-end washer that has no pre-soak, pre-rinse, extra rinse, extra spin or anything like that, just wash, rinse, spin. It's also in the basement so not terribly convenient for hopping in every 10 minutes to change a cycle.
I've convinced DH that we need a new washer with the baby and hense CDs on the way. I would really like a HE front-loader (especially one with an internal heater for sanitizing) but I've had a couple people tell me that you shouldn't use them for CDs because you can't really soak well in them. I just wanted to come to the experts and ask what kind of washer do you have/would you recommend for CDing
We rent, and our landlord has a regular old washer- no special cycles or anything, and I never have done any special rinses or soaks, and I have no problems. I put it in like a regular load- hot/cold, and everything is fine. I add a little soap and some vinegar. So if you want a new machine that's cool, but I wanted to let you know you don't need it.

Share that selectively with your DH if you want. :)

[mimieliza]

Okay, one more, and then I will lay off -- if I am using pocket diapes, I don't HAVE to use CPFs, correct? I can use other stuffers instead? (Or are they in addition?)

No, you don't need to use CPFs at all. You can use CPFs as stuffers, but I found them too bulky when DD was small. Now they work okay, but I prefer the microfiber stuffers.

You may want some CPFs on hand to use as burp rags. I also always lay a CPF under DD's bum while I'm changing her to keep her changing table clean. I bought way too many CPFs - I have 26 of them, and I quickly found I preferred pocket diapers and fitteds.

[Megande]

I prefer the BG pockets to the AIOs for the same reasons that mimieliza mentioned. I like that I can add an extra insert for night, and it is great to not have to worry about them getting too small. It has been very economical for us.

I also don't recommend stuffing with CPFs. It can be hard enough to get everything smooth with just the microfiber insert. But I personally recommend getting a few CPFs and covers to try during the newborn phase. They are my favorite for 0 to 6 months. It is SO cheap, and *nothing* else would keep my breastfed baby's poop explosions at bay. After he got more mobile (and started some solids), I stopped using CPFs. Just another something to think about (as if you didn't already have enough :p )

[ladybug777]

I just received my CPF's in the mail. I have the natural colored cotton, so I know I need to launder them before I can use them. My questions:

How many times do I need to wash them?

Can I use Dreft detergent or do I need something special?

[Delaney21]

I usually wash them about 6 times, but the way to test them is to drip water on them and see if gets absorbed. If it does, you're good to go. If not, keep washing.

Dreft is not recommended for cloth diapers. You can check out ratings on detergents at http://www.pinstripesandpolkadots.com/basics.htm

[ladybug777]

thanks

[ladybug777]

Okay, I know it's normal for the CPF to quilt up after doing the initial SUPER wash. But will eventually loose that fluff and thin out? They just seem so bulky now.

[myangelsvw]

Alright, prefold users. What am I doing wrong? I cannot seem to find a fold that will hold in the BF poop. I've tried the bikini twist and the angel wing fold. We're about to move DS into some new covers, and I'd like to keep them a little more poop-free than the ones we're moving out of. If possible. Do I just need to make them tighter? What was your secret?

[lml41981]

Can you try the jellyroll fold? You roll the sides in and make sort of gussets. I can't imagine that bikini twist would be good for breastmilk poo... It really has nothing to hold it in. I think the jellyroll will help you out better.

ladybug777, my CPFs never flattened out. You kinda want them fluffy. The fluffier they are, the softer and more absorbent they are. The downside is that they are, as you said, bulky.

[wine_o_girlie]

Hi everyone, cloth diapering is going great for us except my little guy has gotten too long for his size small Fuzzi Bunz so I need new dipes. I have several BG OS 1.0's that I really like so I am looking to buy more of those. I have used Diaper Swappers in the past but I saw that a few of you had posted that you weren't happy with your 1.0's. I would love to buy 10-15 of these dipes if anyone has any they want to sell. If you are looking to unload some 1.0's just PM me. Thanks! :) I would also be in the market for Medium Fuzzi Bunz if anyone has any of those.

[Sevilla]

Ladybug: My CPF's stayed fluffy - that makes them absorbent and soft :). What size did you get and for what age/size baby? They shouldn't really be that bulky except when you first start using a size (i.e., when you have a newborn in infant prefolds and when you first start using premiums) - otherwise they should fold up as trim as a pocket diaper (at least that has been the case with us).

Myangel: We usually got poop on our covers no matter what fold we used - it is the nature of BF poop, IMO. As long as we had no leaks on clothes i was find with it. Since BF poop is so liquidy it's hard to contain completely in just a prefold. Even when we used some fitted diapers it would leak out of them onto the cover. Once poop gets more solid (either when the baby is on formula or else when they are eating lots of solid foods) then it is MUCH easier to contain :).

[ladybug777]

Sevilla: My DD is 9 weeks old and is about 10.5 lbs. We're using the infant premium CPF. I've tried different folds and they still seem to be so bulky in the front.

[myangelsvw]

lml - The jellyroll fold scares me. I'm not convinced I could get it folded and onto my squirmy ones without some serious practice. :p

sevilla - Nature of the beast, huh? Well, at least I'm not doing anything wrong. But it's going to make it harder to convince DH to keep using the prefolds. :rolleyes:

[melody]

i just started cding my newborn with prefolds-so far, so good. we have been using a variety of covers. i would like to try wool soakers, but wanted to others' experiences before making the investment... are they great? do they leak? how do i have to treat them?

thanks so much ladies!

[gardenmommy]

I used to post over here eons ago, but we took a 9 month hiatus from CD (It's a long and sad story about a home remodel gone awry...) Anyway, we're back on the CD bandwagon, and I'm having a bit of a bumpy ride.

We used to use CPF's or kissaluvs and covers with dd until about 9 months and things were peachy. About 3 weeks ago I got a whole new stash of regular size (versus infant) CPF's and 6 new covers (poly Nikkys and Litewraps) Well nothing seems to fit dd who is very tall for her age, but kinda skinny. The regular size CPF's are ENORMOUS on her and giver her the biggest butt, so I switched back to infants nd they seem a bit small. The covers gap a ton so we are constantly having leaks.

Megande is in another group with me and mentioned using BumGenius 2.0 one-size and I did a bit of research tonight and they seem perfect for us....

My Questions...

For those of you who use BumGenius or another pocket dipe, how many do you have and are they your primary diper?? Do you wish you had more?? What I'm trying to get at is how aften will I need to wash a load of dipes?

What is the best stuffer, the insert they come with, a CPF, or doubler?? What do you use during the day and what do you use at night??

Are they as good as they seem for a wiggly 21 month old?

TIA!:p

[Megande]

Re: Bum Genius 2.0 - I *love* these things. They actually take me less time to change than a disposable and they aren't much bulkier than a disposable at all. I love CPFs for newborns, but after Dean got mobile, they were just too bulky and slow.

I also use Fuzzibunz (had them before BGs came out). I have 6 FBs and 10 BGs. It is probably more than I need. I could get by just fine with 8 or 10 (my MIL got me some for Christmas :)) We double stuff them at night with the microfiber inserts and never get leaks over the 12 hour period. I use the inserts that they come with.

I hear a chorus of "Mama" that I should probably attend to ;)

[Em7.31.04]

We love our BGOS as well! They are our standby nighttime diaper. For nighttime we stuff them with one microfiber insert & two doublers (or one Hemp Babies). DS is a heavy overnight wetter so we need the extra protection. LOL, the diaper is huge at night w/so many inserts but it does the trick! He just wears larger sized jammies to fit over his giant bum. :rolleyes:

[mommydearest]

I have FB smalls for my 3 month old. We go through about 5 or 6 a day. I bought WAY too many (almost 30) while I was preggo though. I have been trading them for BG. For the next round, I plan to have 14 BG 2.0s and call it done. I like them better than FB because DH hates snaps.

[mimieliza]

I have 6 BGOS 1.0s and 6 2.0s, and three Fuzzibunz (so 15 pockets). I also have a dozen Kissaluvs size 1. I never run out of diapers between washes - we go about three days and then wash because the pail is full, and we usually still have a few dipes left. We could get by with just the pockets if I washed every other day.

[Rico'sAlice]

My first diapers arrived a few days ago and I am just so excited! I keep sitting and stroking them. (OK, I'm a dork.)
I got PFs and think I will borrow a friends "Bitty Baby" doll to practice folding them. But apparently I need to boil them for a while to get out all the oils. (They are organic color grown) I got some in birdseye and some in twill and will have to see what I like best before ordering the full stash.
I also got a few of thesetie nappies (http://www.tinybirdsorganics.com/organiccotton/tie_nappy.html) just b/c they were too cute not to. I am planning to EC with the cloth for backup, so I am looking for stuff that comes off quickly. I'm planning that most of the time the PFs won't actually be snappied on, and will just be held up with a pre-fold belt (http://www.theecstore.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=170&products_id=744), which just looks suspiciously like a scrunchie to me.

I am supposedly making wool covers from some old sweaters, but I don't actually know how to sew, so that it isn't going too well. :rolleyes: But hopefully my mom will arrive before the baby and she can help me get started.
But the covers are mostly just for car rides and if all goes well we won't be leaving the house for a few weeks after the birth anyway. So hopefully I will have some time on that. (Otherwise, DH will have to run to the store for some PUL covers.)

[anemone]

melody congratulations on your NB! Wool covers are great because they are really breathable but they won't wick moisture (just the same as a fleece cover, or any PUL). You will have to relanolize the cover every month or so, as the lanolin is what helps the wool to stay waterproof. There are instructions on how to do this, and how to wash and care for your wool covers on the first page of this thread.

*************
My friend came over with her Bumgenius 2.0's to see if she was doing them up right on the weekend.....I am so envious. I have gone too far down the FB path now (into petite toddlers) and won't swap them now...but if I had my time over again:cool:

[aprilshowers]

ARGH, just lost a long post. Let me see if I can quickly reproduce it:

myangel - I second the jellyroll fold. It does take some practice but I can do it with one hand now and it WORKS. I got through the runny BF poo stage with only 4 covers since we almost never had a leak.

ladybug - try folding the extra length down in back. Since it is only one fold it isn't bulky enough to be uncomfortable and it has the added bonus of catching those up-the-back explosions.

melody - we have been using wool exclusively since DD was about 4-6 weeks. I love them. They are cute and breathable and at home we don't even put pants on over them so we save on clothing & washing. As far as leaking, they are only as good as the diaper underneath. I use prefolds and changed every 2 hours when DD was itty-bitty (now, at 14 months we go 3 hours). You do need to handwash them with some kind of lanolin-enriched wash (or add your own) but since they are small and only get washed once a month or so (or when they get soiled), it is a pretty small time commitment. Let me know if you have any other questions!

[Smittenk]

I am planning on CDing my little one whe it arrives this summer and have been stocking up on the BG 2.0 pocket diapers, wipes and the whole bit. The one thing I don't have yet is a diaper pail or wet bag....what do you use? I would like to soak them so I have heard not to get a pedal opening one so there are no accidents with the baby opening the pail.

Any recommendations??

TIA!

[jh124]

We just use a regular old Target garbage can. The lid is a spring lid with a button on the top. No clue as to why he hasn't figured out how to work it yet. We don't do a wet pail, but no reason why you couldn't in ours.

[Delaney21]

We just use a regular old Target garbage can. The lid is a spring lid with a button on the top. No clue as to why he hasn't figured out how to work it yet. We don't do a wet pail, but no reason why you couldn't in ours.

We have the same set up here.

Is there a reason you want to do a wet pail?

[Marisa]

Hey -- I can't believe no one here posted about this yet! (Maybe they want to keep the prizes to themselves? :D)

The Great Cloth Diaper Hunt started yesterday, you can sign up anytime in May. Basically it takes you through nearly 150 WAHM sites (not all cloth-diaper related, but natural, homemade kinda stuff). You 'hunt' for this little diaper icon, and when you find it you click and enter your email address. The site keeps track of your progress and when you hit a certain number you qualify for another level of prize drawing (held at the end of May).

More info here: http://www.diaperdecisions.com/pages/greatclothdiaperhunt.php

[Marisa]

SmittenK -- If you're getting the BG, then you DON'T want to soak them. It will break down the PUL and then they won't be waterproof anymore.

Wet pails are a thing of our parents' generation, before there were so many more options for cloth diapering, honestly. It might be fine for prefolds, but the 'waterproof' dipes and covers with PUL should be dry pailed. Any stains will come out with sunning (a little lemon juice on the stain helps) or a tiny bit of Oxi-clean (only on rare occasions).

We use a plain step-on garbage can from Target, with a Wahmies pail liner or a Swaddlebees pail liner (when one is in the wash, the other's in the can. Always get two!)

[Smittenk]

Wow Marisa, Thankyou for letting me know that..I had no idea! I am so happy I asked because I just assumed that everyone soaked their diapers.

Thanks for the advice on the pail ladies, I appreciate it!!

[Delaney21]

I'm happy to say that I have successfully converted 2 new people to cloth in the past month! I'm so excited because now I won't be the only cloth diapering freak at all of our playgroups! There is 1 other mom that is coming over to check everything out next month, so I may have 3 converts soon! Everyone is so amazed at the cost savings and the ease of cloth. Yay!

[magrat]

Okay, I have reached the point where I really need to know if I have enough diapers for an initial stash or not. Can you take a look at what I have and let me know? The hard part is the fact that the size ranges are all so different and I have no idea what size my baby will be.

what I have:
1 newborn Litewrap cover (6-10 lbs)
1 newborn WAHM PUL cover (tiny, may be too small to even use)
1 newborn Imse Vimse Bumpy Day cover (6.5-13 lbs)
1 small aristocrat wool cover (7-20 lbs)
1 small little beetle wool cover

3 small swaddlebees AIOs
1 BumGenius 2.0
1 small little beetle original
12 Thirsties newborn prefolds (9.5x13" 4-10lbs)
12 Thirsties infant premium prefolds (12x16" 7-15lbs)
3 crickett's fitted (8-20 lbs)
1 small fuzzibunz
12 NB snugglebottoms w/ velcro fitteds

[ladybug777]

I want to invest in a few AIO's for DD. Any advice on who/which website has the best deal? I think I want a few BG's and a few FB pockets. So far, I've found both for about $18 each. Does that sound reasonable?

[Sevilla]

For AIo's, i would go with Bumgenius based on reviews I have read. For new AIO's $18 is reasonable. You can find them for more like $12 used.

[Em7.31.04]

I'm in need of a new wet bag to send to daycare with DS. I am currently using a Bumkins bag that I liked until the string came out and it no longer closes (it was a drawstring). I want a bag that zips, and is big enough to hold 4 diapers. Any suggestions? :)

[Delaney21]

I'm in need of a new wet bag to send to daycare with DS. I am currently using a Bumkins bag that I liked until the string came out and it no longer closes (it was a drawstring). I want a bag that zips, and is big enough to hold 4 diapers. Any suggestions? :)

I got my wetbag from http://cleanshingle.com/aimeeplus3/ and I love it! I bought the large and it holds about 6 diapers.

[dpangel33]

I have two Wahmies Wetbags that I bought from clothdiaperoutlet.com (http://clothdiaperoutlet.com) in the regular and all day sizes.
I think the all day size would be the perfect size for daycare as it's pretty big for my all day outings.

[Daniel's Kitty]

Your stash looks good to me although before to long you may need larger size covers.

I found out that I love the Thirsties covers with my cchunky legged little one.

Dumb Question Does anybody know of a tea tree oil free wipes recipe?

[magrat]

I'm in need of a new wet bag to send to daycare with DS. I am currently using a Bumkins bag that I liked until the string came out and it no longer closes (it was a drawstring). I want a bag that zips, and is big enough to hold 4 diapers. Any suggestions? :)

I like Happy Tushies (http://www.happytushies.com) bags.

[Megande]

Dumb Question Does anybody know of a tea tree oil free wipes recipe?

For a gallon of "wipes juice", we put in 1/4 cup of baby shampoo and 1/4 cup of oil (canola, whatever. Olive makes it smell weird, though). You can scale down the recipe if you don't need as much.

[Marisa]

I use a gallon-sized Rubbermaid pitcher to make wipes solution, and I add a generous squirt of baby wash, another generous helping of apricot oil (Burt's Bees -- baby oil also works), and sometimes a bit of lavendar oil, just 5-6 drops. Then I fill the container with warm water, tighten the lid and give it a shake.

[aprilshowers]

wetbags - I second the Happy Tushies rec.

[ladybug777]

Question about the BG 2.0 (one size). With the insert when you have it snapped up in the smallest size, where do you put the bulky part? In the front or back, or does it not matter?

[jh124]

Question about the BG 2.0 (one size). With the insert when you have it snapped up in the smallest size, where do you put the bulky part? In the front or back, or does it not matter?


I have a boy, so I put it in the front, where the pee goes.

[mgrace]

I have a question regarding swim diapers. We use disposable, but I would like to use cloth/re-usable for swim diapers. Any suggestions?

[Delaney21]

I have a question regarding swim diapers. We use disposable, but I would like to use cloth/re-usable for swim diapers. Any suggestions?

I just bought one from Target. I'm not sure if there are other ones that are better, but it worked fine for us.

[mommydearest]

For BG dipes-

DD is only 3 months, so I put it in the back. When she is laying down, the pee seems to collect there.

[Marisa]

I have a question regarding swim diapers. We use disposable, but I would like to use cloth/re-usable for swim diapers. Any suggestions?

Do you have any Fuzzi Bunz that are a size smaller than what you'd use now? That's what we always used, they fit great without the insert, like a baby speedo. :)

[SD601]

I still need to finish reading the thread, but whew, I have some questions.

Last month, a friend let me borrow her stash of petite toddler-sized FB to see if I liked CDing. I knew nothing about it, but she gave me them all stuffed with inserts, gave me directions on how to wash and a wetbag and wipes, and sent me on my way. Wow, I can't believe how easy it is, especially with a 21-month-old toddler. Just snap it on and go.

HOWEVER, I think these are too small. She gave me FB mediums, and they don't seem to come up high enough on DS's torso, not to mention it's on the biggest snap over his chunky thighs. I'm probably going to have to give the stash back and buy bigger ones, right?

Also, I'm a terrible housekeeper...um, and not very good at keeping up with the laundry. I've already made the mistake of letting my diapers sit for a few days (ewwww...stinky!) Is CDing really smart option for me? Yeah, I guess I could just do more laundry, huh....silly solution.

So where do I go from here? What diapers should I try, assuming I'm really enjoying pockets? I think I'd prefer to buy new, although I've looked at diaperswappers. I just don't know what to look for and what is a good deal. I'm very familiar with buying and selling things that don't work for me (baby carriers) but sheesh, with mailing costs nowadays, it doesn't seem as smart. Plus, how much longer will I be diapering anyway? We are already begining some potty learning.

Sorry, rambling...thanks anyone with any advice for us!

[Marisa]

Were they mediums or were they Petite Toddler? The mediums have the same width as the PT size, but the PT has the same rise as a Large -- so they would come up higher in the front and back while still being fairly trim.

At that age, Joey was still pretty chunky too, and wore Larges, but as he got to be 2 he was able to fit much better in the PT size (the Larges started to gap as he slimmed down).

As for the laundry issue, I can be lazy about it too and I never had a really bad issue -- you can keep a small container of baking soda near your pail and shake some on top of the dirty diapers every time you deposit a new one. That should keep the stink down a bit. Then just dump the whole lot into the machine for a cold soak, and add a wee bit of white vinegar (1/4 cup, maybe) to the hot wash/cold rinse to keep the dipes smelling fresh after they've been washed.

[mommydearest]

I still need to finish reading the thread, but whew, I have some questions.


So where do I go from here? What diapers should I try, assuming I'm really enjoying pockets? I think I'd prefer to buy new, although I've looked at diaperswappers. I just don't know what to look for and what is a good deal. I'm very familiar with buying and selling things that don't work for me (baby carriers) but sheesh, with mailing costs nowadays, it doesn't seem as smart. Plus, how much longer will I be diapering anyway? We are already begining some potty learning.

Sorry, rambling...thanks anyone with any advice for us!

www.nickisdiapers.com has free shipping on lots of items--including all pocket dipes. I buy almost all my diapers from her and she has been great.

[Em7.31.04]

DS goes to a nanny's house 2 days/week right now and we use CDs at her house (she also CDs). It has been really easy...

But, next year DS will be going to daycare 5 days/week. The center is willing to CD (they made it clear that it wasn't their favorite, but they're willing as long as I use pocket dipes & provide a pail). I'm wondering how feasible it is to bring dipes every day when I am going to be working full-time? Does anyone do this? Is it worth the extra hassle (I'd have to do at least one mid-week evening wash, maybe two, since we don't have many pocket dipes)? TIA...:p

[jh124]

But, next year DS will be going to daycare 5 days/week. The center is willing to CD (they made it clear that it wasn't their favorite, but they're willing as long as I use pocket dipes & provide a pail). I'm wondering how feasible it is to bring dipes every day when I am going to be working full-time? Does anyone do this? Is it worth the extra hassle (I'd have to do at least one mid-week evening wash, maybe two, since we don't have many pocket dipes)? TIA...:p

We have a daycare bag that we pack every night. I don't see it being any harder to add a handful of pockets to the bag each night. Get 2-3 wetbags and a bunch of pockets, then cycle through. Do laundry 2-3 times/week. You probably will need to invest in more pockets, but if it's next year, you have time to slowly add to your stash. Get BGOS, since the aplix makes it more like a disposie and it will grow with your baby, and you won't have to buy more.:) It's totally do-able!

[Pine Tree]

We have just started cloth diapering DD at one month old. She was too tiny to fit in the cloth diapers in the beginning (5 pounds when discharged from the hospital). We're using CPF and covers (Imsy Vimsy and prowraps) the problem is that every time she poops it escapes the CPF and gets on the covers. I think it's because she's so small that it's hard to get the CPF to fit snug on her legs. Does anyone have any suggestions for a better way to fold the CPF? We've tried the bikini twist and the fold where you fold it in 3 (newspaper maybe?). I don't really want to get preemie CPF because she is growing quickly.

ETA: What do we do about stains on the CPF and covers? Right now I'm washing in hot/cold with detergent and using vinegar in the downy ball.

Thank you!!! I would never have started CD if it wasn't for this thread.

[Delaney21]

DS was 6lbs at birth and we had issues with poop getting on the cover too. We used the angel fold and I didn't care if poop got on the covers because it was better than it getting all over his clothes like my 'sposie friends deal with. He was going through diapers so fast and I had to wash every couple of days anyway. Sorry, I know this doesn't help you!

[Megande]

My kid was *giant* and we poop all over the covers, too. But like Delaney said, in disposables, the poop was all over his clothes, whatever he was sitting on, me, etc, so I didn't worry about some poop on the covers. Her poop will get more solid as she gets older, so this is probably just a temporary inconvenience.

Newborn diapering overnight- I have CDed DS since he was two weeks old, but in the beginning, only used CDs during the day. With #2, I will be CDing full time. I use pockets overnight with DS now, but prefolds and covers are my favorite for infants because of the aforementioned explosive poop problems, but I don't know if I want to deal with folding, snappis, etc in the middle of the night. I have plenty of Bum Geniuses, but didn't know how people felt about those for newborns. (I expect this baby to be 9 lbs+ at birth, so the size limit shouldn't be a problem). After that long winded explanation, my question is what did you use to diaper your infant at night?

[aprilshowers]

poop explosions - we used the jellyroll fold (http://www.littleturtleknits.com/sidewallpf.htm) with great success. I folded down the excess in the back to prevent any from escaping in that direction. At first I was skeptical, thinking that it would be too bulky to be comfortable but actually it is much trimmer when folded down in the back then the front.

newborn overnight - we used Kissaluvs and covers at night until about 4 months when we switched to pockets. By then she wasn't pooping at night much.

[myangelsvw]

Pine Tree - I asked that same question a few weeks ago. I tried the jellyroll fold, and I still got poop on the covers. The only thing I've found that seems to correlate with keeping poop off the cover is recency of diaper change. So I guess the one advantage to having them poop 10 minutes after you change their diaper is clean covers! :p

Megande - Kissaluvs here, too. That said, I'm thinking about trying a BG2.0 sometime soon on my bigger twin -- he's probably about 12.5 pounds at this point.

Boiling new dipes - I have some new unbleached cotton diapers (Snappi fitteds), and I'm working on prepping them. I've washed them four times and boiled them for 10 minutes, but they're still not ready. Should I boil longer? If so, how long? Anything else I should be doing?

[dpangel33]

Pine Tree - We get poop on covers once a day, like pp's I think it's much better than leaking onto clothes or even me!!
As for stains on CPF's & covers I lay mine in the sun and that gets rid of them!!

Megande - For the first couple of months we just used a CPF & cover at night (she was waking up every 4 hours to eat) and now we just double up the CPF's since she's sleeping longer. Lately though she's soaking through both so I'm going to get some doublers to see if that keeps her bum dry and even try the BG OS.

[Rico'sAlice]

I started using the jellyroll fold a couple days ago (TBO infant prefolds) on 6.5lb newborn and have had zero poop leaks. (The days before every single poop was running down the leg.) I only had one teeny spot on the cover (wool Rumpsters) when the mustard was so liquid that it leaked through the diaper. I do find that I have to put it on/snappi it a lot tighter than I would think comfortable.
That's all I use overnight too. But we are bed sharing and the baby wakes and fusses as soon as he has a pee/poop. So we change everything immediately, so overnight isn't really different than day for us.

[Chicksinger]

PineTree Another firm believer in the jellyroll fold. It's the only fold I ever do anymore (2 1/2 years of CDing). It takes some practice to get the gussets (where the roll sits) in the right place next to the thighs, and don't be afraid to snappi quite tightly. Since the snappi is stretchy, it will "give" some.

[gardenmommy]

overnights~ I used Kissaluvs when DD was a newborn and they were awesome..I covet these diapers! When she outgrew them I used prefolds and covers for a while and then starting using doublers too overnight to help with absorbancy. Worked fine.

poop on covers~Yup...not sure if this is possible to avoid...we had that issue too. The only thing that stopped it was using kissaluvs since they fit so snuggly around the legs. They are spendy but you might want to try them.

[Chicksinger]

poop leaks (Yeah, I'm back again.) If you're thinking of using fitteds, Kissaluv 0's are good for little babies, and then BumGenius bamboo fitteds. (Although I just read in an Abbyslane (http://www.abbyslane.com/) update that they are discontinuing the fitteds to focus on the AIO's?)

[granada]

Cloth diaper newbie here. I just got a bunch of Kissaluvs fitted for our baby, due in August. I have a couple of possibly stupid questions :o :

1) Boiling new dipes - I have some new unbleached cotton diapers (Snappi fitteds), and I'm working on prepping them. I've washed them four times and boiled them for 10 minutes, but they're still not ready. Should I boil longer? If so, how long? Anything else I should be doing?

I know I have to wash the diapers a few times to make them absorbent, but how do I know they are "ready"?

2) I got a few different kinds of covers for the Kissaluvs (Bumkins, BSWW and Imse Vimse). All the covers seem to have this panel in the front that you're supposed to put the cloth diaper into. (If this doesn't make sense, I could post a picture.) I don't need to do this with a fitted diaper, right? Would I just snap on the fitted diaper on baby and then put the diaper cover over it? Just wondering if I need to do anything special to "connect" the diaper to the cover.

Don't hate me because I'm ignorant. :o

[Megande]

Thanks for the replies! I haven't tried Kissaluvs. I may have to invest in some this time around. Finding a great new diaper is such a blessing and a curse...lots of fun, but not so great for the pocketbook :)

granada- eh, no stupid questions!
1. I just washed all of my new dipes a couple of times. Prefolds should get nice and fluffy. I test other diapers by squirting a little water on them and seeing if they are immediately absorbent.

2. You don't ever have to attach the diaper to the cover. Even if you are using CPFs and covers, you can just ignore the little panel/flap thing. Using that never worked well for me anyway.

[granada]

Thanks, Megande! :) I'm currently doing wash #1. :)

Btw, when I first got the diapers, I couldn't believe how teeny-tiny they are. It's still a little weird to think I'll have a little person who can fit in those diapers in a couple of months!

[Pine Tree]

Thanks everyone for the reassuring posts about poop on the covers!! I'm still working on the jelly roll fold, but things seem better. Also, I took the advice to make the snappi tighter and that really seems to be working. I think I was worried about cutting off her circulation, but there's no way that's happening!

I love CD diapers! Thanks so much for everyone's support. A friend sent me an email about loaning me a "pirated CD to soothe the baby" and I spent 10 minutes trying to figure out how you could pirate a cloth diaper. Then it finally dawned on me that she meant compact disc not cloth diaper! It's an obsession!!!

[mommydearest]

. After that long winded explanation, my question is what did you use to diaper your infant at night?

For newborn--Kissaluvs til the cord fell off, then KL or BG bamboo fitteds with Bumkins covers. I liked the BG fitteds better because the velcro was easier than the snaps for me, esp. in the dark. They are also a little less bulky and move with the baby a little more.

My next newborn stash will be almost all BG fitteds.

[tunibell]

My daughter has been wearing her medium FBs exclusively for over a year now (she is 15 months). On the whole, it's been a good experience, but lately we've had lots of leaks -- even after multiple strippings -- and if she's not wearing a onesie, the waistband of her pants tends to fold over the diaper and get soaked.

I have a stash of large FBs all ready to go (I bought them right before MoE started combining the dipes with their inserts so I could get the CB ones instead), but now I'm wondering if I should maybe sell them and get BG 2.0s? I have one 2.0, and I really like the trim fit BUT I used to be all hyped up on my 1.0s before they started to leak all the time, so I've grown a little wary.

Any thoughts??

[Megande]

Large FBs vs BG2.0 - I have less leakage problems with the BGs than the large FBs for DS. I think it is because there isn't a lot of room for adjustment around the thighs on the large FBs and we used to get poop leaks out of the legs. Now that DS is almost 2 (and obviously larger), both fit great. I prefer the BGs because they are easier to put on, but I have some 1.0s, too, and we haven't had any leakage problems.

Maybe trade half of your FBs for BGs? I currently use both and I like having a choice. I tend to use FBs overnight, partly because they are easier to stuff with two inserts than BGs. In my opinion, they are both great diapers.

[Chicksinger]

tunibell Like you, medium FBs worked for us until DS was 15 months, then the leg elastic was stretched just a bit too much. However, his thighs were never chubby enough to fill out the large FBs, and there wasn't much difference between the medium and the petite toddler.

I don't know the BG 2.0s (had problems with the 1.0s), so we ended up with some large Swaddlebees and a few Happy Heinies. I guess what I'm saying is, the fit depends on the size of kiddo's thighs!

[jh124]

I have a stash of large FBs all ready to go (I bought them right before MoE started combining the dipes with their inserts so I could get the CB ones instead), but now I'm wondering if I should maybe sell them and get BG 2.0s? I have one 2.0, and I really like the trim fit BUT I used to be all hyped up on my 1.0s before they started to leak all the time, so I've grown a little wary.

Any thoughts??

I did the same thing!!:D And now I have a dozen large FBs that are unworn because my DS never chubbed up. He's 19 months now, and I'm doing the same debate. I have BG 1.0 and 2.0 and the 2.0 is superior (but clothes don't slide as easily over them. I'd get a 2.0 and give it a try then commit.

If your DD is like my DS, it's unlikely you will get much use out of your large FBs. I'm holding onto them, because maybe he will chub up before PTing, but I'm doubtful.

[gardenmommy]

I feel so stupid asking this but I honestly don't know...

After multiple rec's I bought DD 3 BM 2.0's and they arrived yesterday. We have never used a pocket dipe or anything like it before...Do I wash them and the inserts prior to wearing them for the first time?

TIA!

[Teresita]

FBs versus BGs 2.0 I had this same dilemma a couple of months ago when DS outgrew his small FBs. I ended up getting mostly medium FBs since I have been happy with them (used them for DD as well) and I hated the BGs 1.0. I did, however, buy two BG 2.0's to see if they were much-improved from the 1.0s. I have to say, that while I am satisfied with my FBs as always, I find that I do get a better fit with the BG 2.0's, especially in the thigh. The 2.0's are sooooooooooo much better than the 1.0's. My only concern with the BGs is whether they will last as long as the FBs (I hope they will and they do seem well-made) and I hope that the aplix closure doesn't become too much of a pain when DS reached the age when he will be able to un-do velcro.

gardenmommy I always wash them once before wearing. You don't have to do multiple washes as you would with CPFs or kissaluvs, though.

[Pine Tree]

I apologize for being such a high maintenance new mama, but I have another question. . . we're using CPF and a variety of covers (imsy, proraps). When I change DD it seems like it's an oven in there! It's hot, and the CPF are completely soaked so that we're almost wondering if she's sweating. It doesn't seem to bother her, but it sure is bothering us! It just doesn't seem healthy to have that much heat in the diaper area.

By the way -- we've had no leaks on the covers since I started taking people's advice about folding and really pulling the snappy tight. A million thank yous!

[Megande]

Pinetree- Well, urine comes out at body temperature, and babies tend to have higher body temps that adults (up to 100.4 is normal when taken rectally). My guess would be that that was the heat you were feeling, but I don't know for sure.

[Sevilla]

Pinetree - how often are you changing her? If the CPF's are truly soaking wet each time you change you either need to change more frequently or else get a higher absorbency cpf.

[Sarah]

Hm. Maybe you're just catching the pee right after she's going? My DD's diapers are pretty cool when I change them, even when soaked through (like in the morning). They're only hot if I catch her right after she peed.

ITA with the Sevilla- if she's truly soaked you might want to add a doubler or change more frequently.

[Can't_Wait]

BG vs FB I used FB size small but decided to switch to BG 2.0 when DD grew out of the FB. My main reason was I didn't want to have to keep buying new diapers in the different sizes. But now that we have switched to BG, I am very happy with them. I only hope they will hold up until DD is potty trained & then w/ a 2nd child!

Are there any other one-size diapers (pockets or AIO) other than Wonderoos? Just curious in case I want to get some different dipes at some point.

[Nigellas]

Are there any other one-size diapers (pockets or AIO) other than Wonderoos? Just curious in case I want to get some different dipes at some point.

Wonderoo are crap, IMHO. Another one size is Mommy's Touch (http://www.onesizepocketdiaper.com/)

[mommydearest]

BG vs FB--we use FB smalls and BG, but have stocked up and are moving to only BG once the FB don't fit. I like the BG better because they are more adjustable. With the FB, it is often a choice between too tight and too loose.

[LeighW]

I hope some of you knowledgeable folks can help a newbie out. I've read most of this thread, and surfed many CD websites. I must admit my head is spinning a little. :)

We're adopting DS, who is asian and currently 3.5 months old. He'll be 6 months old when we bring him home in August (we hope--it could also be late July or even Sept.). He was a preemie and is small--a little under 5 pounds at birth and 9.9 pounds and 21.5 inches long at 2.5 months. I won't get any more size updates before we bring him home.

I'll be on maternity leave for the rest of this year, and then he'll go to daycare 4 days a week. I'm hoping to find a place that will use cloth diapers, but that's a question mark right now.

So, I'm trying to figure out how much of a stash to buy for now and what size. I'm thinking of FBs and BG 2.0s. I suppose I should just buy a few and see how they fit him? Can I get more relatively quickly once he's here?

Also, I'm thinking that someone (Jill?) does CDs for nights/weekends and then disposies at daycare. How many CDs will I need if I go that route (he'll be about 1 when he starts daycare)?

Also, do I need to think about buying bigger clothes to accomodate the CDs?

Thanks for any thoughts. :)

[ladybug777]

Leigh: I'd suggest buying one of the starter packages many of the websites have. A lot of them will give you a variety of products to try, so you can see what you like best. Depending on what type of shipping you're willing to pay for, you can get more sent rather quickly (Priority Mail is 2-3 bussiness days).


For those of you that have BG 2.0's, are any of you have problems w/ leaks? I love them for the most part, but sometimes I notice that they will leak around the stretchy side tab (the is attached to the velcro part). Any suggestions?

[jh124]

So, I'm trying to figure out how much of a stash to buy for now and what size. I'm thinking of FBs and BG 2.0s. I suppose I should just buy a few and see how they fit him? Can I get more relatively quickly once he's here?

Also, I'm thinking that someone (Jill?) does CDs for nights/weekends and then disposies at daycare. How many CDs will I need if I go that route (he'll be about 1 when he starts daycare)?

Also, do I need to think about buying bigger clothes to accomodate the CDs?

Thanks for any thoughts. :)

AWESOME!! It rocks my world to get a CD SO!

First off, congrats to you on your new son. I hope that the paperwork chain flows smoothly and he is in your arms very soon.

At this point, I would worry more about 6-12 months than 1 year+, only because what you are buying now might/maybe/may get you past the year mark. I adore BG 2.0, but others aren't crazy about them. If they had been around when DS was born, I wouldn't have wasted my time and money on FB. I agree with the previous poster to get a starter pack and see how they work for you. I'm a fan of pockets. I think kids get squirmy at 6+ months and it is more difficult to get them to lay still for a prefold/fitted and wrap. (of course, all kids are different.) Pockets are also more daddy and daycare friendly.

I have about 20 pockets that get us through 2 weekend days and five weeknights. If we were to use them full time, they would probably last 3 days or so, before needing to do laundry again.

[gardenmommy]

Leigh~ Oh big congrats on your DS...How exciting!

I just wanted to chime in on the BG 2.0's...I have only been using them for a few days and LOVE them...The best part IMO is that they really are one size fits all so regardless of how big or little your DS is when he arrives you can adjust them to fit him.

Before the BG's we used CPF's and different covers, and I got really really tired of buying new covers to fit her growing little bod all the time and they all fit so differently.

Oh, and I bought my BG's from Niki's Diapers and they took about a week to arrive and had free shipping. Unfortunatey we only have 3 right now so I can't give any advice on how many you will need...

Good luck!

[myangelsvw]

Question on covers. I have two Thirsties covers. One is great and I love it. One wicks from a spot on the front of the cover near the left leg. I've only been using these for a few weeks, and they've only ever been line dried. So I don't see how it could be wear and tear. But maybe I'm wrong. Anyone ever have similar issues? Anything I can try to fix the problem?

[Can't_Wait]

For those of you that have BG 2.0's, are any of you have problems w/ leaks? I love them for the most part, but sometimes I notice that they will leak around the stretchy side tab (the is attached to the velcro part). Any suggestions?

We haven't had any leaks since the 1st one I put on DD... & that was quite awhile back. Our problem, I think, was not putting it on correctly. If you pull the tab all the way over to where the stretchy part is overlaping w/ the velcro rather than it touching the skin, you shouldn't have leakage there. Hope that makes sense! So you want to make sure the long velcro strip is lying completely flat when you fasten the tab to it. HTH

[Sevilla]

Myangelsvw: Have you dried them in the dryer on hot after washing at least once? You need to do that to seal the PUL and make them totally waterproof. That might help.

[myangelsvw]

Sevilla - Nope, I've been line drying them. Oops! Luckily, that cover is in the wash as I type, so into the dryer it goes when it's done. Thanks for the tip!

[KeliAnn]

Finally had a chance to check in ...

I've been CD'ing my 3 week old (just over 8lbs) DD full-time for a few days now, and we love Fuzzi Bunz!! So much so that I just ordered a few more. We also like Happy Heiny's, but she's not a huge wetter - I've heard that they kind of crap out (no pun intended) when the child gets bigger.

The BG 2.0s are nice, but still a wee bit big for everyday use. I use them if I run out of everything else, but give us a couple more weeks before we're totally sold on them.

I've gotta admit ... not a fan of Kissaluvs. They're easy but SO bulky, especially with a cover. And I don't like having to put her on a changing pad all day just to keep from using covers. I can't even put her in her carseat when she's wearing them! I'll probably sell most of them off and buy more FBs and BGs.

Also trying CPFs and covers, and they're fine but bulkier than I thought they'd be. I guess I need trimmer covers? Haven't had any blowouts, thank goodness. We use the infant size, so I've just been tri-folding them and putting them into covers and then creating my own gussets at the legs to hold everything in. I still need lots of practice with these to feel comfortable using them all the time, though.

Overall, it's been a lot easier than I ever thought. It doesn't seem like that much more work than using disposables. We're still using sposies a little at night because she's only 3w old, and we're still getting used to getting up in the middle of the night ;) but I intend to go cloth full-time in the next few weeks.

This thread has been SO helpful!

[jenji]

ok, I'm sure this same question has been asked dozens and dozens of times, but here it is again:
I'm 19 weeks pregnant and plan on CDing our baby boy when he gets here. I plan on using mostly Prefolds with covers but having a few AIOs for convenience sake when he's staying at grandmas or something like that.
Where do you like to get your CDs? Any particular recommendations for CPFs? I'm totally cool with used diapers and am a member at diaperswappers, but I have no idea how it works or how to find what I'm looking for there.
please help a newbie out.
I'm thinking about 3 dozen CPFs, 2-3 AIOs and 6ish covers for starters - how does that sound?
oh and are kissaluvs really the best things ever for newborns? if so, why?

ETA: oh yeah and my mom is willing to sew the covers for me, any recommendations for where to get a great cover pattern? do you recommend PUL or Fleece

[gardenmommy]

Jenji~ I bought most of my diapers from a local store in town, and have purchased some from ebay...I'm a member at diaper swappers too but found they go so quickly that I never get what I need.

When my dd as born we used CPF's and I think we had about 3 dozen which was perfect...I did laundry about twice a week I think. We only had 4 covers which was a few too few I think...6 sounds great.

We also used kissaluvs which, yes I believe, are a godsend for newborns and wee ones. I liked them because they seemed to fit really really well and even when they were a bit big I found they never leaked under a cover..ever! And they held in newborn poops amazingly...(When I used a CPF with a cover there were lot sof poop blow-outs) I got in the habit of using them for nighttime when my DD went longer inbetween changes and they were so absorbant. I just got a new stash of size 1's for our baby #2.

As for AIO's I would recommend trying the Bungenius one size pockets...they will grow with your baby until they are a toddler, which is ecoomical, and fit really great.

I never made my own covers, but I know a lot of CD mommies on here did so I'm sure someone will chime in.

Best of luck.

[Marisa]

jenji -- if you're going to be doing diaper sewing (or mom is, whatever! ;)) - you need to check out www.diapershop.com . It's like one-stop shopping for making everything you need.

I love the Very Baby cover pattern -- the Snug Wrap -- which is sold here. I made a bunch of them for a friend last year, and made a few for us to keep in the process. They're trim and very easy to sew. You can use a cotton print for the outside with PUL as the inner waterproof layer (cute for daytime) or two layers of PUL sewn with the laminated sides touching as a bulletproof nighttime cover.

Looks like the One Stop Diaper Shop is closed temporarily, but if you're only 19w in you've got a little time. :)

[Chicksinger]

Jenji We used all prefolds and fuzzibunz when DSwas an infant, but this time, with DD now 9 days old, we are ROCKIN' the kissaluvs!! Having the snap down opening for the cord stump is so great, and they are just so soft, not to mention easy to get a good fit (with the snaps), AND we have not had a single leak of any kind, despite some major poop-splosions. It has all been contained. Used a CPF today and immediately had poop on the prowrap cover. Hmmph. I'm sticking with my kissaluvs! (At least until the cord falls off.)

[Delaney21]

Where do you like to get your CDs? Any particular recommendations for CPFs?

I've been slowly converting my friends to cloth and I always recommend this prefold package to start with...

From Little Lions http://www.little-lions.com/page19.html

Newborn Package
Includes 2 dozen infant Indian or Chinese prefolds, 3 Snappis or 6 Dritz pins, 5 prorap classics covers (can substitute Bummis for additional charge, see bottom of page to add to shopping cart) in size newborn, small or a combination of the 2 sizes, 6 microfleece liners size newborn or small Retail Value: $77.96 when purchased separately
Package Deal: $69.00 -Ships FREE (continental us)

Then I recommend upgrading to the BSWW, which brings the package total up to $76. (I would add a couple more covers if you are planning on using this for newborn) Its hard not to convert to cloth when you see that you can do it for less than $100!

When I started CDing I bought pockets, AIOs, fitteds and prefolds and the prefolds have always worked the best for us - even at the newborn stage. Occasionally the poop would get onto the cover, but it was better than getting all over his clothes like a sposie!

**If anyone else knows of a better package for beginners, I'd be happy to hear about it so I can pass along the info!

[jenji]

Gardenmom, Marisa, Chicksinger & Delaney - thank you all SO much for your quick responses and the info you gave me. I will check it all out. And thanks for explaining why everyone loves kissaluvs so much for newborns.
I've been following this thread on and off for a couple years, but I feel like I'm starting all over now that I'm actually having a baby!

[Daniel's Kitty]

My fav site to buy diapers is www.babycottonbottoms.com I have only done local pick-up. They also have a place on that site for buying and selling used diapers, the bargain basement.

I love the thirsties covers. I do prefolds and I do get poop on the inside of the cover at times, but when I think about the mess it would be if it was a disposable I don't care.

[mimieliza]

Re: Kissaluvs for newborns

I loved ours. We used them until DD was four months old, and then we bought a dozen Kissaluvs size 1, which we are still using (on the smallest snap setting).

If I had it to do over again, I would get 2 dozen KL 0s from the KL outlet to use for the first 3 months or so, and then 18 BumGenius One Size pockets. So easy!

[magrat]

Overall, it's been a lot easier than I ever thought. It doesn't seem like that much more work than using disposables.

DD is 5 days old and DH completely agrees with you (or so he told her earlier this morning - he's doing most of the diaper changes right now so I can rest and take care of feeding her). He said he doesn't know why people make such a big deal about it, it's really not that hard, and he doesn't even mind the CPFs.

[Nigellas]

Where do you like to get your CDs?
I work at Tree City Diapers, (http://www.treecitydiapers.com/) so I shop there. :)
I'm thinking about 3 dozen CPFs, 2-3 AIOs and 6ish covers for starters - how does that sound?
Sounds good. :)
oh and are kissaluvs really the best things ever for newborns? if so, why?
KLs are OK - I preferred MJs fitted (http://www.thebabymarketplace.com/securestore/c26128p16752280.2.html). Way softer than KLs (and they stay soft - unlike KLs). Plus it looks like they are on sale right now too...

[KeliAnn]

Okay, see I'm not feeling the Kissaluvs love. :/ What covers are all of you KL users using?

[Sevilla]

I like bsww and thirsties.

[ladybug777]

I like bsww and thirsties.

Ditto!

[Sabriel]

I was not too impressed with Kissaluvs either. They are cute and they fit my DD well as a newborn, but they were not very absorbant. We had to stop using them at 2 weeks, because in an hour they were sopping wet. We are using more fitteds now. I have tried Suzie's One Size, Thirsties and Swaddlebees and I love them all! I am really impressed with the Thirsties. They are very absorbant and the price is great! I also have a Happy Heiny Sherpa fitted, but it seems a lot like a Kissaluv to me.

ETA: The Swaddlebees Outlet (http://swaddlebees.com/products/newoutlet) has small fitteds for $8 and $10 right now! I bought 3 side snap covers from from there and I love them!

[mommydearest]

I also didn't like my KL, which made me frustrated considering how much they cost and how much people raved about them. I felt mean putting them on her since they were so bulky on a 6 pounder that they forced her hips really wide open. I preferred the BG bamboo fitteds once the cord came off, but like pockets ever so much better now.

[KeliAnn]

Okay, I ordered one Thirsties cover and one BSWW cover from Nicki's Diapers today, so we'll see if that sells me on fitteds. The KL0s are really cute, and I used them all last night with some Proraps, but they just seem so bulky but not that absorbant. They were sopping wet at each diaper change, and she's still waking up to eat every 3 hours.

I got a couple of BG Bamboo Fitteds after LML gave them such a good review in the old CD thread, but they're still a little too big for my skinny minny. I'm going to give them a shot in a couple of weeks.

Well, part of the fun of CD'ing is experimenting to find out what works best for you and DC, right? I think I'm going to end up being a pocket mom ... I love them so much!

[wine_o_girlie]

I was not too impressed with Kissaluvs either. They are cute and they fit my DD well as a newborn, but they were not very absorbant. We had to stop using them at 2 weeks, because in an hour they were sopping wet.

Yeah, DITTO this. I actually bought Sabriel's KL0's while I was pregnant with my son but ended up hating them and I sold them as well (Sabriel, your dipes now reside in Alabama ;) ). I think I used all of 2 diapers out of 15 before deciding that I hated them and stopped using them. Too bulky and I could not handle the sopping wetness of them - seemed uncomfortable for baby.

I bought some Very Baby XS AIO's and loved them until my baby grew out of them around 6 weeks. They are about the smallest, trimmest dipes out there and are just adorable. They aren't the best for a super duper wetter unless you use one of their doublers (which I did) and like I said, they are for small babies - my 7 pounder grew out of them by 6 weeks. I loved them though and cannot wait to use them again on a teeny baby.

We started using FB size small once the VB's didn't fit and I LOVE FUZZIBUNZ. Seriously, I heart them. For our next baby, I intend to use all FB XS and my beloved VB's. I started using BG OS pockets around 8 weeks but they were pretty bulky so I just used them at night. They are not the best until your babe starts chunking up a bit.

[jennylou]

We started using FB size small once the VB's didn't fit and I LOVE FUZZIBUNZ. Seriously, I heart them. For our next baby, I intend to use all FB XS and my beloved VB's. I started using BG OS pockets around 8 weeks but they were pretty bulky so I just used them at night. They are not the best until your babe starts chunking up a bit.


I too, love FBs! I've been using the size Mediums since end of November. DD is still fitting into them just great. Sure, they were a bit pricier to start with (even buying used) but they are super easy for babysitters, dads and they're super cute, imo. :)

I too will be buying smaller ones for the next baby. To defray getting them all in one batch (and therefore, spending a lot of money at once), I'll probably just buy a few a month while pregnant to get the XS/newborn stash and then keep buying smalls for after the next baby is born. Of course, said baby is a future baby and purely hypothetical at this point. :)

[honeygirl]

Hello ladies, I've been reading along and have a couple questions. I'm not due till November but I'm trying to figure out the world of cloth diapering (which is confusing me right now).

It sounds like BG2's are the way to go, but that it is also good to have other diapers especially at the beginning. I was thinking of KL's, but now that I hear some of you hate them I'm not so certain. Are FBs and MJ fitteds an equivalent to KLs? Do you need covers for them or do they work alone?

How many of each diaper would you recommend purchasing? I don't mind doing laundry 2x a week.

Also, I know that Jill (cloth thread shout out) uses a regular step can. If I have one of those cloth diaper bags, will the stink stay in a regular step can? My DH really wants the least smelly can possible! ;)

Thanks ladies!!

[jennylou]

I just have a plastic can with a pop top lid - it's secure and it does keep the smell inside the can (of course, when you open said can....). ;)

[jenji]

Thanks for all the input on the KLs. I guess I'll just get a few and try them. Am I right that the Jellyroll fold for CPFs is also supposed to do a decent job at containing BF baby poo?
Thank you all also for posting your favorite diaper-buying sites. I have gone to all of them

[granada]

Oh no! You all are making me worried now! After hearing so many great things about the Kissaluvs, they are my main stash. I guess I'll find out in August whether I'm in the hate 'em or love 'em camp...

[gardenmommy]

Oh no! You all are making me worried now! After hearing so many great things about the Kissaluvs, they are my main stash. I guess I'll find out in August whether I'm in the hate 'em or love 'em camp...

Honestly I think it's all in what you know and have exposure to. I had kissaluvs and prefolds with 2 different covers for my newborn and could tell from the get go that I prefered the kissaluvs because of their fit, absorbancy and they contained newborn poo better than prefolds.

Maybe if I had bought a bunch of different types of dipes and covers I would have found ones I liked better, but as far as my exposure, kissaluvs were great. KWIM? It's like apples versus oranges.

Also it's hard to tell what will work really well for you since every baby's diaper needs are different. Heavy wetters, blow-out poopers...

[KeliAnn]

granada: I really think it's my covers. I've been using proraps and Wiggle Worm Bottoms. The proraps are too plastic'y and the WWBs are too bulky. I'll post my review of KL0s when I get the BSWW and Thirsties covers. I also have an Aristocrat wool cover, but I haven't washed it, yet. And yes, the KL0s aren't super duper absorbant, but if you're using a cover, does it really matter? I thought I'd be able to let her get away with wearing them w/o a cover during the day, but that just isn't the case.

honeygirl: See above comment re: KL0s -- I'm going to keep trying because I want to love them. But yes, I would get a few of each kind and see which ones you like the best.

FBs (Fuzzi Bunz) are actually not fitteds. They're pockets, so you don't need a cover for them. They're our favorite diaper right now, and they are SUPER cute.

See?
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1254/541654844_396bf782b1.jpg

If I decide that the KL0s aren't for us, I'm going to sell them off and buy all FBs and BG 2.0s. She'll grow out of the KL0s pretty soon, anyway.

We also like the BG 2.0s, even though a lot of people have said that they were too big for their infants. DD isn't quite 9lbs, she's got skinny legs, and they fit her just fine.

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1329/541654058_6bc1e9e772.jpg

We use a regular step trash can with a PUL bag inside. I keep it in the laundry room because I'm pretty much downstairs all the time during the day, and it doesn't stink at all while it's closed.

[myangelsvw]

Has anyone dealt with dry skin around where the diapers hit? DS has several dry patches on one leg where his covers sit. We use primarily fitteds and covers (for him - MEAFs, Imse Vimse organic and Thirsties), with BG2.0 at night. Detergent is Mountain Green Ultra Sensitive Baby. Do I need to strip the covers even though most of them are new? Would pockets potentially be better? I have a stash of medium FBs, but he's still a couple of pounds away from fitting into those I suspect.

I'm so frustrated because a good part of the reason we went with cloth was in hopes of warding off sensitive skin troubles. Any wisdom would be appreciated.

And I think I finally have something to add rather than just a question! I've been using Snappi fitteds, and I'm really liking them. I decided to try them because DH pretty much refused to use CPFs, and I wanted something as economical as possible thanks to the whole twin factor. They should have a pretty long life, which is a bonus for fast growing infants -- supposed to fit up to 20 pounds, although on a little one, they do require slightly larger covers (DD can still wear BSWW NB with her kissaluvs, but she needs a small with these). I got them for about $7 each, and so far they have admirably contained BF poops. They seem really adaptable -- no leaks on either my skinny legged not-quite-10-pounder or my chubby thighed 13 pounder. They do still require a little folding down for smaller babies, but DH seems much less intimidated. All in all, I think they're a good option for us. More expensive than CPFs, but substantially less than buying multiple sizes of fitteds.

[Pine Tree]

Someone asked about jelly fold roll for newborn poop -- after much experimentation we've had great success with the tri-fold (angel fold I think it's really called) as long as we pull everything tight including the snappi. I posted a few weeks ago in a panic because everything was leaking onto the covers. Pulling things tight has worked great, and making sure that there are no gaps at the legs. DD doesn't even notice, although I was worried in the beginning that it was uncomfortable.

[jh124]

Also, I know that Jill (cloth thread shout out) uses a regular step can. If I have one of those cloth diaper bags, will the stink stay in a regular step can? My DH really wants the least smelly can possible! ;)

Thanks ladies!!

AWESOME!!! I am diggin' the Cloth Diaper shout outs! This is really feeding my ego.:D

Our diaper pail/trash can really does keep the odor in. Occasionally, we sprinkle some baking soda over the diapers. Does the trick!

[wine_o_girlie]

We actually use a Diaper Champ for our cloth diapers. It does a great job of keeping odors at bay.

[Sarah]

I liked KLO fine. Not the most absorbent in the world, but no biggie if you change often, or add a doubler for longer times.

I had my DD2 in cloth from day one, and she never once had an explosion of poop or a leak. DD1 we had in sposies until much later, and she leaked poop all the time.

[Rico'sAlice]

We actually use an open bucket and there is no ambient smell at all. We do sprinkle BS on the bottom.
However, at this point we are washing almost every day (I have 3dz dipes, but we are using 16-20/day since DS complains the second he does the littlest squirt of pee.) It might be different after a few days.
Also, I guess it might be different (odor-wise) if any solids and/or formula were involved. ?
But for now it is really working for us. (We're not doing any rinsing or dunking either.) We did it based on the suggestion of Green Mountain Diapers.

[jennylou]

We actually use an open bucket and there is no ambient smell at all. We do sprinkle BS on the bottom.
However, at this point we are washing almost every day (I have 3dz dipes, but we are using 16-20/day since DS complains the second he does the littlest squirt of pee.) It might be different after a few days.
Also, I guess it might be different (odor-wise) if any solids and/or formula were involved. ?
But for now it is really working for us. (We're not doing any rinsing or dunking either.) We did it based on the suggestion of Green Mountain Diapers.

You're BFing right?

We didn't have a closed container until DD started solids - those poops sure do change. ;)

[Delaney21]

We have a trash can with a lid and we were able to keep the lid open for a few months with no noticeable smell. It did start to smell after a few months though, even with him being EBF, so we had to put the lid down on it. I only do laundry about every 3 days, so that could be why - plus his urine is much stronger now.

[ladybug777]

We use a Diaper Genie for our cd's and it works fine.

[Sabriel]

We use a plastic trash can with a flip top lid. It works great, and keeps the smell in as long as the lid is closed.

[gardenmommy]

We have this cheapo diaper pail from BRU, and it does a good job of keeping the smells in...there is also a space under the lid for deodorizing disks.

http://TRUS.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pTRU1-3028564reg.jpg

[magrat]

I'm using a www.happytushies.com zippered wetbag and it's working great, easier to wash than a bin. I think I need to get another one though, because when it's being washed we have nowhere to put the dirty diapers.

My baby is a week old and I discovered she has a diaper rash this morning :( What do I do? I have no idea. We change her as much as possible, but it seems like she's always wet, and she doesn't care either, so she doesn't let us know when she needs changing. I'm afraid she'll be cold if we have her go diaper free for a while to air out, not mention the problem with peeing and pooing all over the place.

[honeygirl]

Thanks for the diaper pail feedback. Does anyone use a wet bag inside a regular pail? I'm thinking of getting a Happy Tushies bag (thanks for the link Magrat, they're cute!) and putting it in a regular pail aka the one gardenmommy posted. Does that sound doable?

Ladybug - What kind of bags do you use in your diaper genie?

I'm still a bit confused on diaper choices, but I have some time to figure this all out. I'll keep reading along. :)

[Sevilla]

Honeygirl: I use a Happy Tushies wetbag and a Bummie wetbag inside of my flip top can and it works great. I also have a HT Wonderbag for the diaper bag.

Magrat: How often are you changing her? One thing you could do is put her in just the diaper without a cover (assuming you're using prefolds/fitteds) as this will allow her skin to breathe without massive leakage. The other thing you could do is allow her time to 'air out' between changes - we would do this with my DS as a newborn. After we changed him we'd flip him on his tummy and give him naked tummy time for 5ish minutes to let his bum air out. You can also use fleece liners in the diapers to help with rash too. If you leave her naked for awhile, don't worry about her being cold or if you are concerned put a hat on her head and socks on her feet. Use a waterproof pad under her to catch any pees/poos (the thin kind you get in a 5 pack or so like by carter's that are washable - i love those!) HTH! We also found that Balmex worked well on our DS's rashes when he had them, but use sparingly as it can cause buildup on your diapers.

[magrat]

honeygirl It's actually the pail liner I use btw, the wet bag is smaller and for diaper bags. I was planning on using it as a pail liner, but I can't use it as a liner and have the lid hold it open because the lid won't go on with that much fabric in between the top of the pail and the lid. It seems crazy to zip up the bag and then have to dig it out of the bottom of the pail when I want to throw a diaper in it. Especially since there is not much smell even if I forget to zip it up.

[magrat]

Thanks Sevilla, those are all great ideas. We could probably be changing her more (though we're probably doing about 10-12 changes a day). Would using a wool cover be the same as going coverless, from a diaper rash perspective?

[jh124]

My baby is a week old and I discovered she has a diaper rash this morning :( What do I do? I have no idea. We change her as much as possible, but it seems like she's always wet, and she doesn't care either, so she doesn't let us know when she needs changing. I'm afraid she'll be cold if we have her go diaper free for a while to air out, not mention the problem with peeing and pooing all over the place.


What kind of wipes are you using? Cloth with plain water? We were dumb and used commercial wipes on our newborn and he had an angry bum.

[Sabriel]

What kind of wipes are you using? Cloth with plain water? We were dumb and used commercial wipes on our newborn and he had an angry bum.

Ditto. Once we stopped using baby wipes and started using cloth wipes DD's rash got much better. Even at 9.5 months her skin is so sensitive. We still can't use regular wipes. Airing her out, as Sevilla suggested, also works wonders! Until recently, we let her air for about 20 minutes each diaper change when she had a rash. We just kept a waterproof pad under her. I wish we could still do that. Now, she just gets up and leaves. :rolleyes: :)

honeygirl We use a pail liner inside our flip top trash can. I have a Swaddlebees liner and a Wahmies liner, which I love!

[aidensmommy]

I remember a while back, there was a change in policy on ebay regarding the sale of cloth diapers. Did they indeed follow through with that? I wanted to sell my stash of size 0 Kissaluvs and newborn wraps since my son was pretty much born too big for them :) We've only used them for a week, and I had factored in resale value when I was deciding to buy them:confused: Please tell me where you guys are selling your used diapers!

Honeygirl -- diaper pails....we have a bag in the garage for soiled diapers and a small bag in our bathroom (near the changing station) for our nighttime changes. I liked using the bags (bummis I think) better than pails because I can wash them each time and get rid of any smell. On especially hot days, I put some BS in the bag too and it helps with odor control.

Magrat --- On the diaper rash front...our cleared up when I went to the larger size diapers...Kissaluvs size 1 and Fuzzi Bunz. I think the size 0 Kissaluvs were just too tight on our chunky 10 lb boy. He's only a week old, so I understand your frustration first hand!

[Delaney21]

You can't sell USED diapers on ebay anymore, but you could try:

diaperswappers.com
diapertraders.com
diaperpin.com

[honeygirl]

Does anyone like Bumkins AIO diapers? I found some for a good deal ($5) and am wondering if it's worth it?

[Kanga]

What kind of wipes are you using? Cloth with plain water? We were dumb and used commercial wipes on our newborn and he had an angry bum.


ditto for us too with bith kids. dd2 was red w/in 24hrs after birth. No problems once we got home and used cloth everything.

[gardenmommy]

Aidensmommy~I wasn't aware of the policy change at Ebay, but ther eare definately used diapers still being sold there....I have id on a few this week alone.

I have noticed a few sellers saying "recycled" when describing the diapers, or just talking about stains etc. but I'm sure they are used.

[Delaney21]

Aidensmommy~I wasn't aware of the policy change at Ebay, but ther eare definately used diapers still being sold there....I have id on a few this week alone.

I have noticed a few sellers saying "recycled" when describing the diapers, or just talking about stains etc. but I'm sure they are used.

A lot of used diaper listings are canceled in the last day, so that may be why. They banned all "used underwear" and cloth diapers fall under that category. There is a petition right now to stop it, but it doesn't seem like its helping.

[ladybug777]

Diaper rash: A great trick is to blow dry your DD's butt on the low-warm setting after each diaper rash for a minute or so. This will help dry out the rash. We too had to stoop using commercial wipes. We use a squirt bottle of plain water and Viva brand papertowels for clean ups.

[magrat]

What kind of wipes are you using? Cloth with plain water? We were dumb and used commercial wipes on our newborn and he had an angry bum.

We were using a natural wipes spray I bought online, but now we're just using water. I think the rash is pretty much cleared up. I'm trying to let her air dry a little more, but it's not easy since she gets so unhappy about it!

[aidensmommy]

magrat -- we finally got ours to completely clear up too...I mentioned I switched to the larger diapers, well, I also used Balmex when in the Kissaluvs (not the FB because of ruining the fleece). I hate using petroleum products, but it worked overnight remarkably better than my other efforts. I think this heat really makes it tough too. Anyway, wanted to share that with you...in case you are still struggling with the rash in another couple of days.

[KeliAnn]

I got my Thirsties and BSWW covers, and I like the Thirsties better because of the leg gussets. We had a super poo the other day, and it was well-contained. I really like them with CPF's - I just trifold the CPF and that's it!

However, I ended up selling off all of my KL0s. They never fit DD just right - or maybe I just never put them on right. Either way, they weren't for us.

She's in mostly FBs and BG 2.0s, now, so that's where my paypal balance is going to go. ;)

wipes/diaper rash: DD hasn't gotten a rash yet, in spite of the fact that we're using commercial wipes (we got a bazillion packs of them at our baby showers). I'm surprised, too, since I had it really bad when I was a baby.

aidensmommy: I sold all of my stuff on diaperswappers.com. I've also bought a few things off of there, and everything has been really good quality.

[mommydearest]

Diaperswappers--Make sure if you trade that you are very clear about the condition of the trade items. I traded seven washed never worn Fuzzi Bunz --some were hard to get colors--for seven Bum Genius and just assumed that the person was sending me similar or EUC condition BG. It was my first trade and I was so excited someone was willing to trade that I didn't think to ask about the condition of HER dipes. I was crushed when the BG came and they were WELL used and some even home repaired. I didn't have enough guts to say I wanted my diapers back but don't think that I haven't thought about it and been upset at least once a week for the past two months. Some of them were hot pink and bubble gum FB and I didn't save a bright pink one for myself since the person really wanted pink ones. My never worn dipes were worth a lot of money and the ones I was sent were so gross I will be saving them for emergencies only.

[Delaney21]

mommydearest: you definitely should have complained! That's not right!

I just had my first negative transaction on diaperswappers. I paid for a AIO tester from a WAHM who had impeccable feedback. A week later she's banned from DS for not shipping diapers, so I filed a paypal claim and it was ruled in my favor, but she doesn't have any money in her acct. I'm just glad it was only $14, she got other people for a lot more than that.

[Em7.31.04]

DS will be in daycare f/t starting in August, and we'll be sending CDs to use there. We have a good stock of FB, BGOS & HH but need to purchase a few more for daycare.

Do you think FB are too much of a pain to send to daycare because of the snaps (vs. aplix on BGOS & HH)?

[Delaney21]

I hate snaps so I definitely prefer HH & BGOS, but most people really don't care.

[Em7.31.04]

I need opinions here, please....How many pocket diapers do you think I need for a 15-month-old in f/t daycare? And how many wet bags to send with the dipes? I don't necessarily want to buy enough for an entire week (5 days) of daycare, but then again I don't know how realistic it is to have to do wash after work 1 night/week?

[gardenmommy]

Emily~ We currently have 21 BumGenius 2.0's and they last us about 5 days, but DD is 23 months old and it's hard to remember how many more dipes she used per day at 15 months. I think I'd add 10 more for a 15 month old.

We don't have a daycare situation so I'm no help on the wetbags.

[aidensmommy]

Emily -- I can't remember how many we used at 15 months, but as for wetbags, I would suggest at least two, maybe three. You can always use them later for the beach or pool after your out of cloth diapers and training pants.

As for snaps vs velcro...we always used FB, but have just now fallen in love with DryBees (velcro) for our newborn. I don't know how they would work for a toddler though, I wonder if he would be able to unvelcro the tabs himself? My toddler didn't have any trouble taking off his disposies a couple weeks ago when I was in the hospital for the newborn :rolleyes:

[jh124]

I need opinions here, please....How many pocket diapers do you think I need for a 15-month-old in f/t daycare? And how many wet bags to send with the dipes?

I'd plan on doing one load of laundry a week, and buy three wetbags (Mon, Tue, Wed - do laundry Tue or Wed.) I'd estimate seven diapers per day, plus an overnight diaper, so 24 diapers for the three days.

As to whether it's realistic do wash diapers during the week, that's up to you and your schedule. I would prefer not to, and buy diapers/wet bags to compensate for that, but my life is different from yours. And your's is different from any other person on this board. Only you know whether it's feasible or not.:)

[aidensmommy]

Does anyone know how to tell if your Fuzzi Bunz have come to the end of their life span? We've had a couple odd leaks with our toddler's nightime diapers....we haven't changed anything (double the insert, same washing routine per manufacterer's instructions, etc). Lately, they seem to be leaking through the waterproof liner if that's possible.

I can't find any visible tears/holes in the liner, but the diapers are two years old and have been used in a very small rotation. For the first year, I threw them in the dryer (not knowing better), so they've had a rough go of it.

How long have your Fuzzi Bunz lasted?

FYI -- I still love the diapers, just was thinking of buying replacements....

[jh124]

How long have your Fuzzi Bunz lasted?

Our PTs are a year old and going strong. No problems. Do you dry yours? If not, run them through the dryer. It should help seal the holes around the stitching. FWIW, I always throw mine in the dryer.

[karlatta]

How long have your Fuzzi Bunz lasted?
Let's see. I bought mine off of LML, who used them for a few months (I bought size mediums from her when her daughter was about a year old, so she used them maybe 6-8 months or so?). And then I used them for about 9 months, and now the elastic is shot in almost all of them.

So I'd say they made it through about a year and a half of use. We've switched over to BG 2.0's now so that I can share diapers between both kids.

[aidensmommy]

ooh, i'll try drying them...i haven't been doing so, as I was hoping to extend the life a bit.

i emailed fuzzi bunz, and they said they expect their diapers to last around two years...older babies/toddlers have stronger urine and bm that are harsher on the waterproof lining, so sometimes the larger sizes don't last as long.

i think i'll try drying them and if I still have leaks retire them....fortunately, my newborn will eventually use them.

:)

[nektarine]

i have a quick question for you cloth-diaper gurus!

my husband and i are planning to CD our baby (due in late oct), and i have yet to start building a supply. while registering, i did notice that BRU actually sells some CDs on their website.

this is all they've got in terms of all-in-ones:
Kushies Baby 5-pack (http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2333110&cp=&view=all&f=Taxonomy%2FTRUS%2F2255957&sr=1&origkw=cloth+diaper&kw=cloth+diaper&parentPage=search)

anyone have experience with these? obviously, it would help us out to get some cloth diapers as a gift (as opposed to buying them all ourselves)...but i am wondering if these are even worth registering for.

also want to thank LML and all you ladies for organizing and contributing to this thread! i've only been able to read the first few pages, but it is so helpful and informative! :)

[aprilshowers]

nektarine - we registered for and received that same set. They're not the best diapers but they are fine for short trips out of the house or other times when we prefer not to use a prefold. We mainly registered for them so people would know we were CDing and not buy us disposables. Based on reviews here (I asked the same question you did!) I didn't think we'd get much use out of them but we actually have. And at almost 17 months they still fit DD (though she is rather petite).

Not sure if you're looking at any other diapers at BRU, but I have been told to avoid the prefolds.

[lil_geek]

aprilshowers - thanks for that too.... I am in the similar spot as nektarine (due in December) and was thinking of putting some on there so people know at least. Sears also carries Kushies (made for sears) and I wonder if they are the same quality?

It would be nice so people know and maybe pick up something related if they happen to see it.

[Marisa]

We had some Kushies for a while, and they're ok in a pinch, as april said. Not my favorites. The AIOs took a super-long time to dry -- like, I'd do a load of laundry, put everything in the dryer for over an hour, and then put the Kushies back through for another go in the dryer or hang them on the line in the basement for about a day. *THEN* they finally seemed dry.

[mommydearest]

I got some Kushies as a part of an eBay auction with other dipes I really wanted. Like Marisa said, they are ok if EVERY other diaper is dirty/in the dryer. But I would not go out of the house for long with them--they aren't very absorbent. They are similar to the Bumkins AIOs. I personally would buy two or three BG 2.0 one size or some Fuzzi Bunz instead. BG are bullet proof. I personally would not register for Kushies.

Also, just my experience--anything that could not be purchased in the bricks and mortar BRU I didn't get off my registry. For showers, local people wanted to buy it in store and long distance people usually sent gift cards or checks instead of paying shipping. I had lots of cool stuff from the website that I really wanted, but didn't get any of it. :(

[aidensmommy]

don't have any experience with Kushies....but, I know that www.nickisdiapers.com has a gift registry....you could add her link and your registry info to your shower invites just so people know you are cloth diapering and if they want to contribute they know where to go....

[lil_geek]

Also, just my experience--anything that could not be purchased in the bricks and mortar BRU I didn't get off my registry. For showers, local people wanted to buy it in store and long distance people usually sent gift cards or checks instead of paying shipping. I had lots of cool stuff from the website that I really wanted, but didn't get any of it. :(

And being in Canada makes it harder because even ONLINE shopping is MUCH more limited! Hopefully 1-2 sets of CD from BRU or Sears (I guess I could use the prefolds for making wipes or burp clothes) but be enough to let people know.

Is there a post in here on a good 'beginner' stash to start with? There are SO MANY choices it is so overwhelming!

[jh124]

We had some Kushies for a while, and they're ok in a pinch, as april said. Not my favorites. The AIOs took a super-long time to dry -- like, I'd do a load of laundry, put everything in the dryer for over an hour, and then put the Kushies back through for another go in the dryer or hang them on the line in the basement for about a day. *THEN* they finally seemed dry.


I could have written this. They were a good beginner diaper, but I realized very quickly how much I disliked them - or, rather, disliked the poo explosions that only seemed to happen when DS was wearing them (short rise and long baby didn't mix.)

[wine_o_girlie]

I fourth the suggestion to forego the Kushies and try your hardest to get ahold of some Fuzzi Bunz and BumGenius OS pockets. I personally find AIO's a pain because of the drying time issue - you might not think it's a big deal now, but trust me, all of that time to get them dry quickly becomes an issue when you are talking 10-14 diapers per day with a newborn. :) Pockets are much better because you can customize them for absorbency and they dry soooooo much faster. BG one size pockets are awesome because they grow with your baby. I also love Fuzzi Bunz even though you will have to buy multiple sizes as the babe grows.

For Canadian shoppers, try www.diaperswappers.com - just check with the seller to see if they will ship to Canada for a few extra bucks.

[jh124]

nektarine - Do you have a Whole Fields near you? Some of them carry bumGenius 2.0. That might be an option for you.

[nektarine]

thank you ladies for the feedback! :) i think i might go ahead and just put one set of the Kushies on my registry, just to get the message out that we are CDing. also, i'm sure there will be some days that i'll wish i had 5 extra diapers handy, even if they aren't the best quality.

aidensmommy... thanks for the link to the online CD registry! that is a great idea.

jh124... we do have a WF close by! i had no idea they sold CDs, i should check next time. i wonder if their prices are reasonable.

I fourth the suggestion to forego the Kushies and try your hardest to get ahold of some Fuzzi Bunz and BumGenius OS pockets.

oh, don't get me wrong, i am definitely looking into all the other diaper brands! i've also heard great things about happy heiny's.


i've got another quick question for you:
do you find that you need a particular kind of diaper bag for CDing? i've been eyeing some sweet leather diaper bags... am i completely cuckoo for considering them for CDs? i apologize if this has already been answered in this or the previous thread!

thanks again!

[Sevilla]

I use a regular diaper bag for my CD's. I keep them (both cleans and dirties) in a Wonderbag by www.happytushies.com and i love it!

[magrat]

nektarine I would not rely on having kushies on your registry to make people realize you're CDing. They may not even look at the whole print out. I put a note on my registry saying 'no disposable diapers please'.

[lady1297]

Someone posted a great site for newborn diaper packages awhile ago. I book marked it and then my computer crashed. Any ideas? I thought it had "lion" in the name, but could totally be wrong. I wanna buy like 2 doz infants and 6 or so covers for my girlfriend's shower...And I want a great deal too! :)

[mommydearest]

I have two normal diaper bags--a larger PBK bag and a small $9 Target one that looks more like a purse than anything else. I just got a Bummis small wet bag to keep in them and a 12" by 20" larger one from NappSacks (http://www.nappsacks.com/) for full days.

Any more, I wear her in a sling or carrier and don't change her when we go to stores, so 9 times out of 10, the bag stays in the car. It only comes in when we go to friend's homes or g'mas.

So...any bag you want will be fine as long as its big enough for a couple dipes and isn't too heavy. Just remember that what you take is what you bring home (plus a little extra...) so you don't want it to be terribly heavy.

[magrat]

I think the environmental reasons for CDing are great, but is it wrong to do it primarily for the cuteness? :D

http://lh6.google.com/BenjaminKitt/Rn7giuTR3dI/AAAAAAAAAhg/7V6NU8toCbg/Eve%20asleep%20on%20Benjamin.jpg?imgmax=720

[Delaney21]

Someone posted a great site for newborn diaper packages awhile ago. I book marked it and then my computer crashed. Any ideas? I thought it had "lion" in the name, but could totally be wrong. I wanna buy like 2 doz infants and 6 or so covers for my girlfriend's shower...And I want a great deal too! :)

Sorry I missed your question earlier. Here is the link to the packages that I recommend to all of my friends: http://www.little-lions.com/page19.html

[Delaney21]

magrat: How adorable! That diaper looks so big on her! So cute!

[KeliAnn]

magrat: Wait, there are other reasons to CD besides the cute factor?!? ;) She is adorable!!

[Smittenk]

magrat...what kind of diaper is that? It is super cute

[gardenmommy]

Magrat~Oh what a doll she is!:)

[mommydearest]

magrat...what kind of diaper is that? It is super cute

Looks like a Fuzzi Bunz.

[Smittenk]

Thanks mommydearest!

[gardenmommy]

DD has been drinking so many fluids to stay hydrated this summer that she has been soaking through her BG 2.0's lately at night.

For those of you who use a doubler, do you use a specific one? Do you place it inside the pocket or out?

[Nigellas]

i've also heard great things about happy heiny's.

My CDing friends and I often wonder who these women are that love HHs. I often hear how much people like them but we all hated them. haha ;)


For those of you who use a doubler, do you use a specific one? Do you place it inside the pocket or out?

I just use 2 microfiber inserts stuffed.

[karlatta]

For those of you who use a doubler, do you use a specific one? Do you place it inside the pocket or out?

Like Nigellas, I use two microfiber inserts inside. Works like a charm.

[Marisa]

I loved Happy Heinys for a long while, they really fit my chunky infant well. The only reason why I switched to FB was that as DS started standing and cruising, he thought it was hilarious to grab the velcro tabs and rip his diaper off! I needed all-snaps from that point on.

[mya174]

Just went through my stash today and dang...I got rid of a lot and didn't realize it. I know that I was not a fan of the prefolds and snappis. Just could not get the hang of it. I have several covers, a few AIO, lots of Wonderoos and stuffers.

I want to use my covers but am not sure what I should get to replenish my stash. Something affordable. Suggestions??

It has been awhile since I did the newborn CD thing. I need a refreshers course :D

[Chicksinger]

mya174 We loved the Kissaluvs for the first weeks (with both kiddos), but now DD is soaking them too quickly and I adore the BumGenius bamboo fitteds. They hold a lot and the fit is awesome.

[mya174]

mya174 We loved the Kissaluvs for the first weeks (with both kiddos), but now DD is soaking them too quickly and I adore the BumGenius bamboo fitteds. They hold a lot and the fit is awesome.

Good to know!! I have heard great things about BumGenius. Might have to check them out.

[gardenmommy]

thanks ladies...I added a doubler we had (not sure if it's hemp or microfiber or what) to DD pocket last night and no leaks.:D

mya174~For newborns I used prefolds without a snappy in our covers, or kissaluvs. I LOVED the kissaluvs. You can usually get tem for a good price off ebay or diaperswappers.

I haven't used the BG bamboo fitteds, but if they are as good as the 2.0 one-sizes they are probably great.

[aidensmommy]

Hi ladies,
So, our stash is primarily FB and DryBees AIO....at first the DryBees seemed ok, a little big, but they worked alright. I still went for the FB first because they never leak, and I had a few leaks with my DryBees.

NOW, every single time he wears the DryBees they leak all over? Soooo frustrating. Either there is something wrong with my diaper or my son is the wrong size (23", 12lbs in a size small). Does anyone else struggle with these stupid DryBees as much as I do? Please tell me I didn't waste my $$$$ :confused:

[Chicksinger]

bumGenius fitteds By the way, these have actually been discontinued (I have no idea why), but they are still available as sites sell off their stock and the price wasn't jacked up. One place that still has them is Nicki's Diapers (http://nickisdiapers.com/). Also Jillian's Drawers (http://www.jilliansdrawers.com/store/clothdiapers.html).

gardenmommy I've heard that an excellent nighttime solution is a bumGenius fitted covered with a bumGenius 2.0 Pocket diaper (stuffed).

[myangelsvw]

mya - I like Snappi fitteds. I think they're easier than prefolds and, for me, have contained poopsplosions much better. They still take a little folding down, but that means that they fit a lot longer than your ordinary fitted, making them more cost effective.

[mommydearest]

I also loved the bamboo fitteds much more than the KL0s. That makes me sad because I was going to buy more for the next baby. Seeing as the current one is only 6 months, I think DH will kill me if I buy more dipes though.

[KeliAnn]

aidensmommy: have you tried stripping them? I strip all of my diapers (I only use pockets) once a month, and I haven't had any leaks, yet. I just do my normal routine with Dawn instead of detergent - cold rinse, hot wash with a couple squirts of Dawn, white vinegar in the rinse, and then an extra cold rinse.

[aidensmommy]

kelliann--so is it the Dawn that strips them then? My wash routine is a warm cold rinse (with oxy, and baking soda) followed by a hot cold wash (Allens Naturally, oxy and sometimes tea tree oil). Occassionally, for stinky loads, I follow up with a cold wash with vinegar. Maybe I should try the Dawn? I heard someone mention boiling them??

Thanks

[emmjay]

Chicksinger - are you using the XS or the S bamboo fitteds? I have a bunch of KL0s already but I might get some BG fitteds as well for the next baby. I'm just not sure what size I should get - any thoughts?

[KeliAnn]

kelliann--so is it the Dawn that strips them then? My wash routine is a warm cold rinse (with oxy, and baking soda) followed by a hot cold wash (Allens Naturally, oxy and sometimes tea tree oil). Occassionally, for stinky loads, I follow up with a cold wash with vinegar. Maybe I should try the Dawn? I heard someone mention boiling them??

Thanks

Yes, the Dawn is supposed to get out all of the oils from soap build-up. Your wash routine sounds perfect, so maybe they're just leaky diapers? :confused:

[Megande]

Nighttime diapering question-DS is 2 and we have been successfully using pocket diapers (BGs or FBs) double stuffed with a microfiber insert at night for about a year now. Recently, he wakes up SOAKED every morning. PJs, sheets, everything. The inserts are completely soaked, so I don't think it is an issue of the diapers needing stripped. Maybe he is just bigger and his bladder holds more? He sleeps for about 12 hours. Any ideas for what I can do? I don't want to make the diaper much more bulky because I still want him to have freedom of motion. He is a little over 3 ft tall and weighs about 31 lbs, if that makes a difference to anyone ;).

Thanks!

[aidensmommy]

megande -- is your diaper big enough? we had been using mediums for so long, i didn't realize we needed to move to larges until a lot of leaks....

good luck!

[Marisa]

Megande -- at some point I realized I needed to try something else, and we went to using all hemp inserts (Joeybunz). I actually stuffed a Large FB with three hemp inserts, and that was our nighttime solution for a long long time. It's not super-trim, but it wasn't too bulky for him to move, and the hemp is really absorbent.

[aidensmommy]

well, i found homes for my drybees...I think they just didn't fit my son right, hence the leaks.

with my proceeds, i'm looking for more dipes now. i love fuzzi bunz, but what else do you guys just love? i've heard many of you like bg....do you like the aio or one size bg???

any input would be nice. i'm thinking i might just stick with fuzzi bunz, but like trying new things :)

tia

[magrat]

My favorites (at least for newborns or young infants) are snugglebottoms fitteds. They're super cheap and a great alternative to kissaluvs IMO. I am still using newborn size and hadn't planned on using them beyond that, but they're so cheap and reliable I think I'm going to get some in the next size up. I don't care much for pockets because I hate stuffing them and they're not quite as bulletproof as a fitted and cover.

megande Have you tried bamboo? It's even more absorbant than hemp. It takes forever to dry, but holds a lot of liquid. Check out Baby Beehinds. You can get a trial package of one fitted and one cover with free shipping from www.palmettodiaperworks.com. They're really pretty colors too.

I don't suppose anyone wants some swaddlebees size small? They leak pretty much as soon as I put them on her and want to get rid of them, I know some people have better luck with them.

[Megande]

Thanks for the input! aidensmommy-I don't think diaper size is the problem (at least I hope it is not because we are in large FBs and the BGs just have one size). He is still on the smallest snap size on the FBs, and that is usually what we use overnight. Marisa-Thanks! I will have to try some hemp inserts. It will give me an excuse to buy some new diapers for baby #2 ;). magrat- I haven't tried bamboo, but I will have to look into that, too. Thanks!

Favorite diapers- For newborns, I prefer prefolds and Bummis Super Whisper Wraps. Nothing else was equal in keeping BF baby poop contained for us. For mobile babies, I prefer the BG onesized (it didn't come out until DS was over a year old, so I haven't used them for little ones). I like FuzziBunz a lot too (they hold up great!), but the ease of the velcro and the stretchy sides of the BGs make them my favorite. I didn't see the draw of pocket dipes until quick diaper changes and a trimmer fit became more important.

[bethnjim]

I have a question...

I am not pregnant yet, but we plan to start trying next month. We are also in need of a new washer and dryer. We plan to CD and can't figure out which washer and dryer would be best.

Any recommendations?? We looked at the LG's, but I think I read that they don't do a great job of washing the CD's.

We would like an energy efficient washer and dryer.

Thanks!!

[magrat]

bethnjim We needed a new washer and dryer for washing CDs and after reading great reviews on mothering.com and seeing them in person, we went with Fischer Paykel. I love them! They're really energy efficient, but the washer is top loading and that's what I really wanted. I haven't done it yet, but I can put my CD washing settings into it as a favorite cycle and then I'll only have to press one button and it'll wash heavy duty hot with a soak. They spin much faster than most washing machines, so it won't take as long in the dryer.

[KeliAnn]

magrat: How is the absorbancy on those snugglebottoms?

Favorite diapers for newborns: I didn't start with DD until she was about 3 weeks because I had PPD and couldn't function well enough to wash diapers. By that time, she was around 9lbs, so I went ahead and put her in Fuzzi Bunz, which worked great. I did try Kissaluvs but they never fit her right. The BumGenius bamboo fitteds worked great, but I moved into all pockets pretty quickly, so I only used them once or twice. I also love the BG one size pockets.

Washer: Can't help there because we have an old skool top-loader, but I'm hoping to get a HE washer for Christmas, so I'm interested to see what people are using. :)

[aidensmommy]

magrat -- are the swaddlebees small or newborn? I might be interested in trying one.....I'm not happy with the kissaluvs size 1s....

[magrat]

keliann I think they're about as absorbant as prefolds. They're definitely more suitable for day than night. They're always really wet when I take them off her, but with good covers I don't have leaks. When I buy the size up I'm going to also buy some of their hemp/cotton fleece doublers which is what they recommend. I really like how easy the snugglebottoms are to put on and take off, the fact that they dry fast, they're very trim, and the price. I have some WAHM fitteds that are very cute, but I find the snaps make it difficult to get a good fit, they take longer to dry, and I feel bad putting a cover on them when they're so cute :) So I decided to focus on getting cute covers instead.

[TracyDP]

bethnjim We needed a new washer and dryer for washing CDs and after reading great reviews on mothering.com and seeing them in person, we went with Fischer Paykel. I love them! They're really energy efficient, but the washer is top loading and that's what I really wanted. I haven't done it yet, but I can put my CD washing settings into it as a favorite cycle and then I'll only have to press one button and it'll wash heavy duty hot with a soak. They spin much faster than most washing machines, so it won't take as long in the dryer.

We have a great washer and dryer, but only the cold water is hooked up. I'm due in September and my DH is a middle age hippie who really wants to use cloth diapers, so my deal was I'll use cloth if he gets the hot water hooked up to the washer. I think I will probably use disposables for the first few weeks/month or so (at the least until the belly button is healed) then transition to cloth once I start to get the hang of all the other stuff going on (sleeping patterns, breastfeeding etc.) One new thing at a time. It sounds to me like I'll just have to get a few of several different brands/styles of diapers and just try them to see if I like them...is that about right?

[jh124]

Megande -- at some point I realized I needed to try something else, and we went to using all hemp inserts (Joeybunz). I actually stuffed a Large FB with three hemp inserts, and that was our nighttime solution for a long long time. It's not super-trim, but it wasn't too bulky for him to move, and the hemp is really absorbent.

Marisa, quit stalking me! That's my routine (only PT FBs, not Large.)

bethnjim We have a top loading Maytag (energy efficient model). Love it. Works well for cloth.

[magrat]

magrat -- are the swaddlebees small or newborn? I might be interested in trying one.....I'm not happy with the kissaluvs size 1s....

They're small, there are no newborn swaddlebees. They've only been used once or twice at most, and are in perfect condition. They may be an older style than they're selling now, I'm not sure. I've got 5 and would prefer to sell them all together and will let them go really cheap that way, but I suppose I would be willing to get rid of them individually too.

[TazLuv]

:DI'm subscribing b/c we are due in December and are thinking about CD'ing.

I've read through the first 13 pages :eek: but have at least one question (to start).

Can you buy BumGenius and that's it? I really like the AIO concept. They don't need covers, right?

TIA! :D

[gardenmommy]

Tazluv~I use the BumGenius 2.0 One-size pocket dipes for my daughter. They have adjustments that make it able to fit babies from newborn to about 35 lbs. They are a pocket, not an AIO, but pretty similar if you ask me.

They also have AIO's but they come in sizes like SM, M, L etc...

Neither of those need covers.

From my experience I haven't used these one-size dipes on a newborn, but will be trying them with our baby due in October. I'll let you know how it goes.