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

All 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-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 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

While 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

This 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

It 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.

When you hear the term “green living”, you may get an image in your head of long haired hippies wearing tie-dyes, showering the air with love and poetic justice, and living in communes making everything they use. Truth is: the definition of green living has changed. The concept simply includes setting your hands to do things that help the environment be viable for future generations. If you don’t feel like shedding your worldly possessions and living in a mud hut, here are a few steps you can take that will make your life a little greener.

First you can start off by buying local organic products. Organic farmers not only use little to no chemicals, they also take steps to reduce water and soil degradation, along with other problems caused by traditional agriculture. Veggies from groceries stores have usually been shipped a long way, which causes environmental pollution. Buy your produce from a local farmer’s market or Co-op. Can’t find one? Got a green thumb? Start your own organic garden and invite your little ones to help. My 11 year old daughter Jocelyn loves helping me plant tomatoes and cucumbers. Besides, I love the opportunity to cultivate a little green into my children’s life and into the future to come.

Next, use natural products. Household products that don’t contain chemicals are not only better for the environment; they’re safer for your family as well. You can make various cleaning products from something as simple as vinegar, which can be found in your kitchen. If you don’t have the time, there are products you can buy. I'm a big fan of GETCLEAN and I use it faithfully. But if your family is on a tight budget and you want the green clean, try Simple Green. No matter what you try or use, just make sure they’re all natural and don’t just have a few natural ingredients. Really read the labels.

Reduce. We’ve all heard the spiel about reduce, reuse, recycle; however, most of us focus is on recycling and completely ignores the reducing. Try to use products that don’t end up in landfills like cloth diapers instead of disposables or regular towels instead of paper ones. Another cool idea is to buy concentrated products because they come in smaller packages and they last a world of a lot longer.

Reuse. Many people have gotten in the habit of sending their recyclables away in the bins, but there’s more supply than demand in the recycling market. That’s why it’s also important to reuse items if you can. Before you throw something in the recycling bin, consider whether you could reuse it for something else. For example: When I've finished off my fat free mayo. I save the glass jar and lid so that I can reuse them later for pickling cucumbers or making homemade jam.

Recycle. We should all have a recycle bin in our homes, but you can do stuff to recycle on your own. Instead of using potting soil in your garden, set up a compost pile and make your own rich soils or as I call it - black gold. You can also use products like shredded plastic bags to mulch your garden. If you get creative, there’s lots of recycling you can do on your own.

Conserve Energy. There are so many things you can do to save energy. The big plus on this is that it also saves you money. One of the first things I did was switch to low energy light bulbs. This literally cut my electric bill down by 60%. You could also take more drastic renovation steps by getting new energy efficient windows or installing solar panels. If you want to know more about updating your home to make it more energy efficient or green try reading "Natural Remodeling for the Not-So-Green House". Knowledge is power you know. You can also check out "The Knowledge Corner" to the right.

You can take other small steps like setting the thermostat a few degrees lower. That can make a big difference. A big way to conserve energy is to get a more fuel efficient car instead of driving that big honking SUV with a V8 engine or get rid of your car altogether. Better yet, try using the city bus or walking. If you don’t need a big SUV, then don’t get one. You’ll be doing the environment a big favor.

Teach your children. You might not be able to change the world on your own, but you can start a trend by teaching others to be more environmentally friendly, starting with your kids. Make sure your children know what steps you take to improve the environment and why YOU DO IT.

Dear Earth,

Are you aware of what is happening to our beautiful Mother Earth? Do you feel concerned about the many people and businesses that have consciously or unconsciously hurt our air, water, land, animals, vegetation, and atmosphere? The truth is that the situation is not hopeless, you are not powerless, and you can make a difference.

I suggest that you let go of any fears or concerns and focus on what you can do to improve the situation. Then set your intent to take positive actions to take care of and honor Mother Earth.

To begin with, you can choose to read a book about the issues and learn more ways to be helpful. You may want to join an organization, or donate to one or more that are focusing on making positive changes. Another idea is to create your own group of earth friendly friends and family, or start a green business or organization.

Still another option is to organize a meeting at work to briefly outline the problems and spend most of the time on the solutions. At follow-up gatherings everyone can evaluate the success of the programs and decide what else they can do, or how they can improve their positive efforts.

Taking an inventory of how you can personally contribute is an excellent positive step. Of course, sharing it with your family is extremely helpful. For example, recycle whatever you can, and buy more products that are recycled. Also, consider purchasing energy efficient appliances and cars. Shut off lights when you leave a room and unplug electrical adapters when not in use.

Personally you will benefit by the good feelings that come with doing good deeds. Focusing on the positive and taking action feels empowering. Together we can make a difference.

The following are some guidelines that can assist you with your goal to be a more conscious global citizen and honor Mother Earth.


DEAR EARTH,


I promise to...

1) Appreciate your magnificent beauty.

2) Express gratitude for offering me a place to live and play.

3) Treat you with love and respect.

4) Be conscious of how important it is to preserve you.

5) Protect you by keeping you clean, using less, and recycling.

6) Contribute to your growth by replacing what I use.

7) Keep you pure by using safe, non-toxic substances.

8) Remember that what I do and say does make a difference.

9) Realize that you, like me, need peace to be healthy, happy, and successful.

10) Commit to being a kind and caring local, national, and world citizen.


Thank you for all your precious gifts. I love you!


If you choose to make any of all of these promises, then it is helpful to write down a list of specific things you can do and follow through. Your positive modeling can help to awaken others to do the same. Then the men, women, and children can motivate the people in their lives and so on. Congratulate yourself for being willing to honor and take care of our beautiful Mother Earth.