By Ellen Crain
Reusable diapers significantly reduce the amount of waste in our landfills (untreated human waste is of particular concern), are healthier for babies, and save money for both their families and the community as a whole. Additional benefits are earlier potty-training, better functionality, and (I believe) greater comfort for the babies who wear them. But the main reason I like to use cloth diapers is a little harder to explain? the best I can do is to say that it feels like a nicer way to live... the same reason we don't use paper plates everyday.
This article covers the following cloth diapering topics:
Getting Started
Laundering the Diapers
Can I Use Disposables Sometimes?
Recommended Cloth Diapering Links
Getting Started
If you would like to cloth diaper, do not purchase the cloth diapers sold at local stores (for example, Gerber brand prefolds); unfortunately, they are not functional diapers and will only lead to heartache and wet laps. However, there is a large selection of quality diapers available online (please see the recommended links section). If you choose not to own and wash your own diapers, Modern Diaper Service (703-823-3993) serves Falls Church.
To start a simple cloth diapering system:
- Buy 2-3 dozen premium prefolds in an appropriate size.
- Buy 4-6 velcro wrap covers, or Dritz pins and pull-on covers.
- Obtain a diaper pail (a kitchen garbage can with a tight-fitting lid works well).
Beyond ensuring that you are purchasing from a reputable and quality diaper retailer, the specific choice of products and brands is just a matter of personal preference. You will learn as you go what you like and don't like. This entire simple system will probably cost you less than $200. As you become familiar with cloth diapering, you can add other pieces that fit your particular needs.
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Laundering the Diapers
Washing diapers is simple. Use no more than half the recommended amount of detergent, and either pre-rinse or wash in cold, then wash in hot, and finally add a cup of vinegar and rinse one more time. Covers may be washed with the diapers, but should be line-dried. Experiment with your routine to see what works for you, I believe that your washing machine has a big effect on how much you need to wash to get your diapers clean. It isn't necessary to use a special baby detergent-"Free" detergents are a common choice. I do a complete wash in cold with detergent and baking soda, then a complete wash in hot without adding detergent, and finish with an extra rinse with vinegar, using the "Kirkland" brand detergent Costco sells in 5 gallon pails.
If you don't relish the idea of bending over a toilet, swishing a soiled cloth diaper, you don't have to; flushable diaper liners are widely available online.
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Can I Use Disposables Sometimes?
There are no cloth-diapering police! If using cloth diapers exclusively seems overwhelming, keep in mind that it doesn't have to be an all or nothing decision. I use disposables when we travel, and occasionally when I'm just too busy to keep up with the laundry (or when the power is out for a week after a hurricane).
In the interest of keeping this relatively brief, there's a lot of information I've left out. If you'd like to learn more, here is one place to look:
Mothering magazine articles on cloth diapering.
If you have any questions, please feel free to
email me.
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Recommended Cloth Diapering Links
Informational (Non-sales)
Sales (most have information, too)
