What do you really need to cloth diaper?

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What do you really need to cloth diaper?

Post published:February 2, 2012
Post category:Cloth Diapers / Diaper Accessories / Questions Answered

Today I would like to share a number of my cloth diapering experiences with you. I’m the mother of four children. They have all been cloth diapered through complete potty training (including nighttime wetting) and I have had the chance to evaluate a plethora of the diapers available out there. Hopefully, I can help you with any questions you would have during your cloth diapering journey!

Contents show

Researching and selecting cloth diapers are often extremely overwhelming! Many parents become stressed and ask what they really need to successfully cloth diaper their baby. I’ve broken it down for you in terms of *Must Haves* and *Might Wants*. I hope this helps!

Must Haves

Diapers – 36 for newborn stage, 24-36 for infant and toddler stage. If you select diapers that are available in many sizes, you will need 24-36 diapers in each size. If you select a one-size diaper, you will only need 24-36 total. There is a chance that you might need to replace worn items on occasion after extended use.

Choose from:

Prefolds or Flat Diapers, Contours or Fitted Diapers plus Covers – 4-6 diaper covers or 3- 4 wool covers per size (or choose those with adjustable sizing)

~OR~

All-In-Ones or Pockets (AIOs and Pocket Diapers have ‘built in” covers)

~OR~

One-Size Hybrid System – 4-6 diaper covers to be used with 24-36 inserts

Wet Bag – Waterproof bags designed for storing your dirty diapers when you are on the go. They keep messes and smells contained and come with either zipper or drawstring closure in a variety of sizes. Throw them in with your diaper load to clean. Many parents prefer to have two or more.

Cloth Wipes – I suggest 24-36. They’re available in a multitude of shapes, sizes, fabrics, colors, and even prints. Many parents claim that they’re planning on using disposable wipes, but it really makes sense to throw everything in one container instead of running with a poopy diaper to the diaper pail and poopy wipes to the garbage can. And they are useful for other things too…runny noses, bloody knees, spilled juice.

Pail Liner or Hanging Wet Bag – Waterproof bags made specifically to store dirty diapers at home between washes, either inside diaper pails or hanging on doorknobs or hooks. Simply dump your dirty cloth diapers into your washer and drop the bag in after them. Many parents like having two.

Detergent – We suggest Seventh Generation, Rockin Green, BumGenius Diaper Detergent, or Allens Naturally Powder.

Wool Care Products – If you’re using wool covers, you’ll need a wool wash (available in liquid and bars) and lanolin (available in solid and liquid spray form).

Swim Diapers – Many public pools require washable swim diapers now because the chemical-stuffing in disposables clog their filters.

Might Wants

Diaper Sprayer – Attaches to your toilet and makes the removal of solid waste as easy as a spray. Otherwise, you will need to dunk-n-swish or use a poop scraper.

Snappis – Fasten prefolds, contours, or fitted diapers without closures.

Baby Bits – Tiny chunks of glycerin soap that are made into a solution in spray bottles or wipes warmers.
Wipe Spray – Sprays directly on baby’s bottom and wipes clean with a cloth wipe.
Wipes Warmer – Use a solution or plain water to keep wipes moist and warm at home.

Small Wet Bag – Keep your dry wipes and spray organized and protect from leakage when you are on the go.

Flushable Liners – For easy cleaning of soiled diapers

Inserts, Doublers, or Liners – Customizable to the needs of your child, these may offer additional absorbency or stay-dry capabilities to your diapers. Many different fabric options are available. It is best to consult with a cloth diaper expert to determine which is right for your situation.