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Last week I started writing about diapering. Then I realized exactly how much information there was! Not only in the debate between cloth and disposable, but just in the vast amount of information on each topic. So last time I covered why disposables were not the greatest choice anymore. You can find the blog and relating articles HERE.
This time around, it'll be the cloth diapering. The in and outs, and a brief overview of what kinds there are.
I ultimately started looking at cloth diapering because I wanted something that was more economical and better for the environment. I have memories of hearing of horror stories about cloth diapers, having to fold them, sticking the kids with pins, having diapers hanging out in the toilet all the time...fun stuff. However, cloth diapers of today have come a long way from yesteryear, complete with velcro tabs and separate inserts that can be washed instead of just a huge cloth.
The Economics of Cloth Diapers
We all know that disposable diapers are ridiculously expensive. And I find it outrageous and absurd that companies charge those prices, knowing that they can, because it's a necessity. You have to have diapers, and with the monopolizing of brands, companies, and products these days there is less and less competition, so these companies really go for the jugular. With how many diapers your kiddo will go through, you are looking at roughly $1000-$1200 a year just for the diapers. This doesn't include the wipes, rash ointment, etc.
The initial investment can be a pretty scary number to look at. You're looking at generally anywhere from $400-$1300. This number all depends on if you are willing to go the lower end of the spectrum, where more folding is involved, or if you want to go high roller style with the bamboo diapers that are already formed, or are the 'all-in-one' style. The initial investment will also include your velcro tabs or pins, diaper pail, a rinser hose if you desire, wipes (or you can make your own, the DIY blog for homemade wipes can be found HERE), inserts and covers. That's a hell of a lot for what would amount to one year of disposable diapers.
What Kinds Are There?
My head was literally spinning as I started researching different kinds of cloth diapers. There are so many different kinds, and so many of the articles were so long and informationally dense that I contemplated throwing the computer across the room. Luckily, I found a great article from momadvice.com which broke everything down into readable sections while still giving all necessary information.
Diaper Covers:
Just as the name implies, this covers the inner layer of the cloth diaper and acts as a waterproof barrier. The diaper covers come in all kinds of cute colors and designs and are used in conjunction with the Prefolds, Fitted Diapers, and Contoured Diapers.
Prefolds:
These are the traditional cloth diapers we all think of. A big 'ol cloth diaper with a thick strip down the middle. There are three different kinds of prefolds available. First there is the Chinese Prefold, which is the most popular prefold out there. It is made of twill, has heavy duty stitching, and stands up to some heavy washing. The Indian Prefold are made out of gauze and are softer than the Chinese Prefold (CPF) and are more absorbent, however they tend to wear out a bit faster than the CPF. The other prefold is a Diaper Serivice Quality (DSQ) Prefold. All this means is that they are more absorbent that the generic type you may find at the store, and are what you will get from a diaper service company. As stated above, these will be used with a diaper cover.
Fitted Diapers:
These diapers have elastic gathering at the legs, which makes them easier to fit around baby, and they also have velcro tabs (no need to pin!) which makes it quite easy to use. Fitted diapers are also used with diaper covers, and are the least expensive option, second to the prefolds.
Contoured Diapers:
Contoured diapers are pretty similar to the fitted diapers, except they don't have the elastic gathering at the legs. The contoured diaper has wings that will need to be fastened, and is also used with a diaper cover.
One Size Diaper:
As the name implies, the One Size Diaper fits your baby from birth until they are 30-35 pounds. They have snaps that go across the diaper and can be folded down to make a smaller size. Obviously this one would take a bit of practice to get the folding right so that your baby isn't dropping his pants when you pick him up off the changing table! This one seems like it would be a good investment however, since different sized diapers would not be necessary, and you would be able to spend less on your diaper investment.
All In One Diaper:
Again, the name says it all. These diapers are made of an outer layer (usually wool), and the absorbent inner layer, which is all put together in once piece. They are fastened with a loop or hook, and are the best bet as far as daycare, grandparents, or last minute outings are concerned.
Pocket Diapers:
This is an easy fasten on diaper that is made of two layers that form a pocket to be used with absorbent inserts.
Inserts:
These are used with the Pocket Diapers, and are literally just nice soft cloths that are put into the pockets. You can just use regular Prefolds, or get ready made ones that are made of materials like terrycloth, micro-terryclolth or even hemp!
Wool Soaker:
These have a high lanolin content, and are used as covers since they can hold up to 40 percent of its weight in moisture. They are often used with the Contoured, Fitted, or Prefold Diapers.
To begin with, it's suggested that you get a couple dozen diapers and inserts, and about 10 covers. This way you don't have to worry about doing the laundry every single day, and so should be able to get away with washing only 2-3 times a week instead. And although it is a sizable initial investment, it's best to keep in mind, that these will last you for years, are reusable, and have no chemicals that might end up causing a bad rash on your newborn's sensitive skin. Also, make sure you have a diaper pail on hand, along with a hose to rinse off the diapers, and a few wet bags on hand so you can keep one in the wash, one in the pail, and one in your diaper bag.
Hope this helped with the break down of what kinds of cloth diapers there are, and provide a bit of clarity on the situation. As for myself, I will probably be using the fitted diapers with covers. Easy peasy.
Tune in next week for the breakdown of the how to's for cloth diapering: Folding, cleaning, and general care.
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