2008-01-24

Cloth Diapers an eco-pleaser - How to choose the right one

Knowing the difference

When I was a kid, my mom had one choice for cloth diapers. My poor mom couldn't stand those finger pricking pins and folding those so leakable cloths that caused a lot of frustration. That is why so many of us have simply switched to those eco-poisoning disposable diapers. They just seem more convenient. Well guess what? Most cloth diapers today are not only convenient, they’re also more attractive and sometimes work even better than disposables. So now we can kiss those frustrations good bye. But first we must find the right diaper.

The key to using and sticking with cloth diapers

The key is choosing the one that works best for you. Here are some of the cloth diaper options on the market these days. I've also included some pictures to help you make the right and so you can see the different choices for your babies bum.

All-in-Ones or AIO


Re-uz'm All-in-OnesAll In Ones (AIO) are basically cloth versions of disposable diapers. They’re waterproof with elastic fight around the leg area for a snug fit. They come in once piece with a built in liner so inserts become obsolete. You can also get wool versions of these that have a softer cover layer. I know these diapers are a blessing for busy parents. They surely were a blessing in disguise for me. I highly recommend the ReUz'm brand. They are one of the most absorbable AIO's around and can really take a beating. These were the best for my boys.

All-in-Twos


All-in-TwoAll-in-Twos are just like all-in-ones except the absorbent layer is an extra piece that fits in the diaper. They are almost as convenient, but they’re more hygienic because it’s easier to clean the inserts. If this diaper is right for you then I would suggest keeping extra liners on hand. You just never know when you’ll have an accident.


Fitted Diapers

Fitted Diapers look a lot like plastic diapers because they are fitted at the edges to prevent leaks. Unlike all in ones, they do require a diaper cover. But don’t worry. Diaper covers look some much more adorable now. You can even coordinate them with your baby’s wardrobe. You can also get contour diapers that are shaped to fit the baby, but not elasticized to fit tight.


Flat and Prefold Diapers

Flat and prefolds are basically old fashioned diapers our parents used on us. Many have been made more convenient using snaps instead of pins, but they still require folding and aren’t fitted. Prefold diapers provide extra layers of fabric for better absorption and can be doubled up. While these may seem archaic, they’re the cheapest option for cloth diapering.

Pocket Diapers

Pocket DiaperPocket diapers are similar to two-in-ones because you can add your own inserts, but instead of sitting in the diaper, the inserts are put into a special pocket. This is great if you need varying levels of protections and absorbency. Another great feature is that you can use almost any naturally absorbent material to put in the pocket, including old flat and prefold diapers.

One-Size Diapers

One-Size-Fits-AllWhile most diapers need to be replaced as your child grows, one-size are exactly what they sound like: one size fits all. This means you can not only use the same diapers from infancy up, but you can also use the same diapers for your older and younger kids and avoid tiring diaper sorting.

You might think that choosing a diaper type is a big enough decision for you to make, but were not done yet. There are some other things to consider.

Diaper Liners

Diaper LinersThis is what keeps excrement from getting into the main fabric of the diaper. Diaper liners can be fabric, which you wash, or paper, which you can throw away or flush down the toilet.


Diaper Covers

Groovy Diaper CoverIt used to be you have to cover cloth diapers in ugly, hard, and annoying plastic. Now there are new materials being used including wool diaper covers that give covers that groovy look and the wool offers the benefit of keeping that bouncing bottom warm.

Organics

You now have the option of getting your diaper, liners, soakers, and everything else, made from organic materials. They’re better for the environment and for your baby.

Although sifting through the many diapering options can be overwhelming, it’s better to take the time. This way you can find affordable, environmentally friendly diapers that fit into your life. I give that a green thumbs up.

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