Top 5 tips and tricks!
If you’re just starting out using cloth diapers, then you may be wondering what the best way to go about it is. There are so many different cloth diaper brands and styles on the market these days, it can be hard to know where to start! In this blog post, we will share with you 5 cloth diaper hacks every beginner needs to know. From washing them properly to avoiding leaks, we have you covered!
When I first started cloth diapering I had absolutely no idea what I was doing. I literally did not know one person who cloth diapered their baby! This led me to do a TON of research on what cloth diapering would entail.
As I researched I came to realize that each mom had their own opinions on all things involving cloth diapering. Whether it was the type of cloth diaper that worked best or even what brand had the cutest designs all the advice varied.
Feeling discouraged and lost with all the varying opinions I decided to just start buying! I chose what looked good to me and sounded like the best option and just went for it!
Fast forward a few months and my thoughts on cloth diapering has completely changed. I probably experienced many more mistakes and pitfalls than most, but I learned a TON!
Here I will share my experience in hope that I can help you avoid some of these pitfalls.
Tip #1: Buying cloth diapers used…
A podcast that was specifically titled, “Cloth Diapers for Beginners Guide” gave the advice that when one is starting the cloth diapering journey it is a good idea to buy them used.
WRONG! This may work for those who are experienced in this new journey, but NOT for a newbie like me. I had no idea what to look for and just bought the ones that looked good in the picture and weren’t too far for me to drive. Big mistake.
I ended up buying a large lot of cloth diapers and inserts online that same day. I remember feeling so proud of myself that I saved so much money! Now I had a huge stash and I didn’t even have to buy them at full price!
Well you guessed it this was a complete waste of money. Every single one of them was stretched out to the point that they ALL leaked! Plus, the inserts must have been washed incorrectly because they were not absorbent at all.
I ended up having to buy all brand new ones and spending even more money because of this mistake.
Unless you know how to recognize damage and misuse I do not suggest buying used cloth diapers or inserts.
If you want to see the cloth diaper’s I now use and recommend to all cloth diaper beginners check out this blog post.
Tip #2: Does the price tag really matter?
As I researched new cloth diapers I was struck by how the price was very different from one brand to the next.
I wondered… were the most expensive ones were the best quality? Or if I could get by with the more reasonably priced cloth diapers?
The ones I ended up choosing were very reasonably priced and have been AMAZING! I have had no problems and they even come in cute designs. They were only about $10 a piece and even included the insert.
Click here if you want to check them out!
So in my opinion read the reviews and go off of that more than the price tag.
Tip #3: Cloth diaper on larger baby
This question particularly targets mamas with larger babies. If your baby is above average in length or weight, cloth diapers will inevitably leak.
The main reason this happens is because the outfit they are wearing is being stretched too tight making the cloth diaper more snug than intended. Leading to leaks and baby being uncomfortable.
The solution is to buy a onesie extender. This allows for extra room and keeps the bottom from rising up when baby is moving around.
FYI the particular onesie extender I used fit all Carter’s clothing and a few other brands. Do your research on what onesie extender will fit the clothing brand you use before you buy.
Once I started using these extenders I never experienced leaks again!
Tip #4 Cloth diaper wet bag
Yes! You do need a cloth diaper wet bag. I know It is difficult to spend more money on anything else when you already feel like you are spending a lot when you first start out.
But, all other options do not work as well and the cost will be well worth it in the long run!
I thought I could use my diaper genie pail as a wet bag replacement and this did not go well. The smell was horrible and emptying the can out daily for washing became tedious.
Hanging a simple inexpensive wet bag on the wall next to your changing table will make wash loads quick and easy and cut down on the stench.
Also, you can wash the wet bag with your cloth diapers if it starts to smell. This is not a luxury you will have using any other type of container.
Tip # 5 Cloth diaper inserts
No matter which type of cloth diaper you decide to go with buying some inserts is a must. There are tines when your baby will need that extra absorbency and you will be glad you had these on hand.
For example, when your baby naps or when you put baby down for bed he or she will pee more than usual making leaks more common.
Also, when taking long car rides doubling up on the absorbency is necessary. The last thing you want to happen on a long car ride is for the car seat to get soaked with urine. Even with the diaper inserts you still should aim to change the diaper every couple of hours.
Help me add more to this Cloth Diapers for Beginners Guide
Please shoot me a comment or contact me directly with any tips and tricks you have learned along the way. I will update my list of tips and tricks as I receive new info from you. We could all use the help! Plus I love hearing from you!
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