How to use cloth diapers - the 2019 ultimate guide

Learn all you need to know on how to use cloth diapers

By Sameet
How to use cloth diapers - the 2019 ultimate guide

The basics of cloth diapers with inserts

Cloth diapers are getting less popular with newer, more convenient and disposable ones are coming to the market. Really easy to use but quite heavy on the wallet, these newer diapers. If you want to save money on the initial years of your baby, then cloth diapers are your choice. All they require is a little care from you in self-washing and keeping them nice and clean.

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Many people don’t know this but the cloth diapers require something more than just cloth to be effective and used effectively. One of the main accessories that are needed in using cloth diapers is Inserts. As the name suggests, these are the materials inserted into the cloth of the diaper to soak and to provide comfort.

Here is a list of the types of inserts you can use in your baby’s cloth diaper, along with their benefits:

1. Cotton

Cotton is very natural and easy to get. It’s quite affordable and soft, so you don’t need to worry about the diaper being harsh. It soaks up pretty well but you’d have to make several layers of it when packing it in the diaper and will feel bulky on the baby’s bottom.

2. Microfiber

The actual fabric might be a little harsh but once inside the cloth diaper, it can’t really touch the baby’s skin. Microfiber comes as a standard with most of the diapers and after cotton, it’s the next most affordable thing. It sure absorbs really well, but if not changed on time, it may leak.

3. Bamboo Combinations

The next best thing you can easily find in the market, are bamboo combination inserts. These can be Bamboo Fleece or Bamboo microfiber. They are popular because of their thin nature and high absorbency. They easily evaporate and keep your baby dry and comfortable, especially with Charcoal bamboo inserts.

4. Hemp

Used usually in combination with cotton, hemp makes the finest insert. Although a bit expensive, it comes with perks like a comfortable thin layer, quick absorbent and being all natural and safe. You can use hemp with other combinations too, like charcoal bamboo. This will give amazing results, especially for the diapers used at night.

Styles for Inserts

Who says simple cloth diapers can be boring and dull? You can make them more creative and can be adjusted to your baby’s size and comfort.

Here’s a quick reference to the most common styles use nowadays in adding inserts to baby cloth diapers:

Source: thiswestcoastmommy.com/Pinterest

Pad

You can pile up multiple layers of the insert you like and sew it all together to make a pad. This makes it really easy to use and remove too. This thick pad will give support and you can make it the perfect size that fits the diaper.

Tri-fold

This technique can add different types of inserts, as you like and once you simply fold them into thirds, they become the best absorbent and keep the other side (outermost layer) completely dry. One good combination is of suede cloth, cotton and bamboo.

Flat

The simplest one, you can take a cloth of much larger size than your desired insert, then fold it up and pack it like a pad and you’re done.

Snake-style

You can make this one by taking a long strip of the insert and fold it on top of it like a snake pattern. This way you can adjust the thickness of it, without giving much bulky look.

How to wear it for newborns

You might be thinking, what's the big deal in using cloth diapers for newborns. Isn't it the same as using them for toddlers and older babies? The main thing that bothers you is the size. They're way too tiny and adorable at the same time. It's hard to find them and they are used for a short time that's why they can be expensive too.

Finding the right size

The one-size diapers you can get from the market are not always the exact fit though, as different babies have different builds and weights. But most importantly, it's those tiny little legs that we are concerned about. You might have the idea about the unpredictable bowel movements of babies and the number of times they have to pee. So to keep that all under control, you need something that fits perfectly according to those adorably tiny legs.

Newborn-sized diapers are made to fit that particular size range. And what factor decides that these are going to correspond to this wide range? It's the fabric mainly. It should be accomodating enough to fit baby sizes even if they grow a little. They have snaps in a long range to fit accordingly and even if you snap them at their smallest size, they don't appear to be as bulky.

Best cloth diapers for newborns

Here's a collection of the top newborn cloth diapers, that can help you choose the right one

1. BumGenius One-Size Pocket Diaper

Amazon.com : bumGenius Original One-Size Pocket-Style Cloth Diaper 5.0 (Mirror) : Baby

Here's a diaper with stretchy stay-dry lining and is super soft. Quickly wicks moisture away from delicate skin, and provides a trim fit. Comes with snaps to adjust and two inserts.

2. Rumparooz Lil Joey Diapers

Amazon.com : Rumparooz Newborn Cloth Diaper Cover Snap, Aquarius : Baby

Thsi nbaby diaper gives you Water Resistant Polyester TPU. 3 size settings are in the range 4 - 15 lbs. Also vailable in snap or Aplix (hook & loop) closure. You can use it over any diaper system that requires a little waterproofing.

3. FuzziBunz Perfect Size Diapers

Amazon.com : Fuzzibunz Perfect Size (Medium (15-30 lbs), Bubblegum Pink) : Baby

These reusable diapres are finely made with the most innovative materials. Your baby's bottom remains dry and comfy with the three layer design. A little expensive option for parents, but totally worth it.

4. Kushies Ultra-Lite All-In-One Diapers

Amazon.com : Kushies Ultra Lite All in One Diapers - Toddler - Cupcakes : Baby

Have a look at the Kushies' product which gives you washable cloth diapers that are environmentally friendly. Featuring 6 layers of 100% soft cotton-flannel with a special absorbent from Kushies and is extremely lightweight. 

5. Thirsties Duo All-In-One Diaper

Amazon.com: Thirsties Duo Wrap Cloth Diaper Cover, Snap Closure, Stargazer Size One (6-18 lbs): Baby

Pliable and breathable wraps provide an ultra-comfortable waterproof cover for fitted, pre-folds, flats and contoured diapers. All these qualities in one baby diaper, this will surely convince you to be your choice. It also grows with your baby so you don't need to buy one for every age.

Cloth diapering with snaps on the go

What are diaper snaps exactly? These are no different than the buttons we use on our regular clothes, just a little easier and more convenient than those. With literally a snap, they fix all your diaper fitting problems and make it very simple to remove the whole diaper or just the inserts. They seem like little plastic beads but you'd be amazed by the great hold they give to the diaper.

The old-fashioned knot method was revolutionized and also, snaps were proven to be better than velcros. Because velcros tend to get weary with use and have this unpleasant feeling to it. The baby might have chances to get little scratches as well.

DIY for fitted diapers with snaps

How to Make a Fitted Cloth Diaper With Snaps: 19 Steps (with Pictures)

It's not necessary to get these snap diapers from the market. People often don't find the perfect size for their babies either. So why not make your own and add snaps to adjust to whatever the size you require? Follow the link below to get the full guide with easy pictures.

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Summary

Take a moment to explore all the choices for your precious baby. It is not necessary that you have to get everything the world has to advertise. Cloth diapers are indeed a very good choice if you're trying to be economical and environment-friendly. These will also keep your baby away from toxic products that are manufactured with hazards. So keep your eyes and options open.

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