Friday, January 28, 2011

Take a short survey…win a one size diaper!

Will you take a moment to help Doable Diapers stock the items and diapers that YOU want the most?  Just fill out a brief survey to let us know your favorites when it comes to cloth diapers. 

FB-onesize-grape120The survey will be open through 2/28/11.  I will give away a FuzziBunz one size pocket diaper to one random survey participant at the end of February!  If we have a large response to the survey I will give away more than one diaper! 

After completing the survey, let your friends know so they can participate as well!  Thank you for your time, and for supporting Doable Diapers!

Click HERE to enter the survey

Tuesday, January 25, 2011

Special Parking for Pregnant Women?

pregnant-mom3TH_thumb[1]I heard this debate on the morning talk show yesterday when I headed to the OB doctor.  Then it arrived in my Daily Babble today.  It makes me curious…what do you think?

There is a councilman here in New York City that is proposing special parking or parking passes for expectant mothers with “particular health challenges.”  The NOW spokeswoman for NYC has come out against this proposal because it makes women seem weaker when pregnant.

For those who are not City dwellers, let me tell you that parking is a pain!  It does depend on the neighborhood that you live in.  We have spent 45 minutes looking for a parking space before.  Then if you have to park several blocks away and walk to your home or destination, with baby, bags, and stroller all in tow, it can be quite an ordeal.

Now that I am nearly halfway through this pregnancy, I am realizing what a hassle is required to go out of the house, even for just a few minutes.  With the added problem of the lacking public restroom in NYC, I often cannot venture very far unless I know there will be a bathroom when I arrive.  I now leave the grocery shopping for an evening activity when my husband can help with the bags and parking.

I think the parking passes would be a blessing to any expectant mom.  I may not even qualify, as I have had healthy, and considerably easy pregnancies.  But it is still a nice gesture. 

I don’t think that my pregnancy makes me weaker.  I have definitely discovered that I can do many things (often requiring a little creativity or new approach) even with my expanding abdomen.  Yet I appreciate the little bit of extra care that my hubby gives me.  He understands when I feel ill.  He takes care of the dishes.  He spends his evening with me at the grocery store.  It makes me feel valued and special that he will take special care of me at this time.  I do not feel belittled, put down, or second class because he does these things.

So…what do you think?  Does pregnancy make women weaker?  Do we deserve a little bit of special treatment?  Should we just be expected to carry on as we did pre-pregnancy? 

Should there be special parking passes?  And does pregnancy and mothering turn a woman’s career down the wrong path?  Leave me a comment and share your thoughts.  Be sure to read the original article, found here.

Don’t Forget…Photo Entries Begin Tomorrow!


I just wanted to remind everyone about the Cloth Diaper Love photo contest sponsored by Diary of a Devil Dog Wife and Doable Diapers!  Entries will be accepted beginning tomorrow!  Send in your photos for a chance to win a diaper bag crafted by Marah at Diary of a Devil Dog Wife, and three (3) one size diapers from Doable Diapers!

Photo-Contest-button_thumb2

Here is a reminder on the rules of entry:

Once all of the entries are received, we will open things up for voting. 

  • In order to vote, you must be a follower of Diary of a Devil Dog Wife and Doable Diapers via Google Friend Connect. 
  • Voting will be open for one week - February 6-13th. 
  • Announce your entry on your blog and send all of your friends over to vote! 
  • Each person may vote only once.
  • The five pictures with the most votes will be eligible for the grand prize…we will choose the winner from the top five!

The winner will be announced on Valentines Day, February 14th (in keeping with our theme, Cloth Diaper Love!).  One winner will take away a fantastic prize – a diaper bag stuffed with three diapers - one Rumparooz, one BumGenius, and one FuzziBunz diaper.

Send in your pictures of your cute babies in their cute cloth diapers.  Show us your creativity and Cloth Diaper Love!

Friday, January 21, 2011

Cloth Diapers On the Go

I know several people who use cloth diapers when they are at home, but when it comes to on-the-go outings, they opt for disposables.  There are several reasons why you may not choose to use cloth when you leave the house.  I hope that “it’s too difficult” is not one of them!  Along with the modern cloth diaper come many options to make on-the-go cloth diapering very doable!

What to pack in the diaper bag

Everyone has different preferences when it comes to packing a diaper bag.  But there are a few items that are necessities when it comes to taking cloth diapers outside the house.

:: Diapers (of course!)

You may wonder how many diapers you should pack for an outing.  I am one of those “better safe than sorry” type packers and I always take too many.  Then again, I have never been caught in a “sorry” situation!  However, a good rule of thumb to follow is one diaper for every 2-3 hours that you will be gone.  Then add one more.  This extra diaper is called the “peace diaper” and it is there just to give you peace of mind!

I usually choose pre-stuffed pocket diapers or AIOs for outings.  These are quick and easy to put on the baby.  They don’t require folding, snappis, covers, or any extra steps.  This is especially good if you have to make the change in a germ filled public restroom!

:: Wipes

Whether you opt for cloth or disposable wipes, you need something to get that bum clean!  I pre-moisten my cloth wipes and bring them in a small Planet Wise wet bag.  They are ready to use when the diaper needs changed!  It is especially handy to have pre-moistened wipes in case there is no sink in the location when you have to change the diaper (like in your car).  You could also bring dry cloth wipes and a small spray bottle of wipe solution

:: Changing Pad

I consider this a “must-have” for diaper changes on the go.  Whether it is the car seat, the church nursery, or the public restroom – no one wants to share those germs!  I use a FuzziBunz changing pad.  The fleece side is oh-so-soft on my baby, and the waterproof backing keeps anything from getting through.  If I have used it in a public place, I fold  the waterproof side in so that the germs are not spread to the rest of the items in my diaper bag.  Wash it frequently!

:: Wet Bag

This is also a necessity!  You need something to keep all of the mess and odor contained until you get home.  I prefer a medium Planet Wise wet bag so I have lots of room.  Wet bags can easily be thrown in the wash with dirty diapers and set aside for the next outing.

:: Optional Items

You may choose to bring disposable inserts for a Flip cover, or a Snappi if you are using prefolds.  Depending on your baby, it may be a good idea to keep some cloth diaper-safe rash cream in your bag.  A small bottle of hand sanitizer is also a great idea!

Your diapering supplies may look something like this…

KONICA MINOLTA DIGITAL CAMERA

:: Non Diapering Items

I also carry a snack and sippy cup at all times.  I never know how long I will end up being gone or what situation will arise.  Cheerios and a drink will keep Elaine happy almost all of the time!  I have a small cooler bag to keep the drink cold (especially if it is milk).  I have recently discovered Planet Wise reusable food bags and they are perfect for on-the-go snacks!  They are coming soon to Doable Diapers.

You may throw in a rattle or small toy depending on the age of your baby and the type of outing.  Other items include a bib, burp cloth(s), and a change of clothes.  I used to always carry a spare onesie to get me home if there was a tragic accident.  Recently I have opted for a pair of baby legs instead.

I have not yet found a diaper bag that I like.  I couldn’t bring myself to spend $50 on a diaper bag.  But I am planning to buy something for the next baby, especially since I will have two in diapers for a short time.  For now, I just grab one of several shoulder bags that I have at home.  Depending on the length of the outing, I choose a small bag or a large bag.  I always bring a spare diaper – just in case!  Even if I think it is just a quick trip and nothing will happen…well I don’t want to be caught if something does happen!

Your packed bag may look something like this:

KONICA MINOLTA DIGITAL CAMERA

You can do it – cloth diapering is easy, even on-the-go!  What item are you sure to pack in your diaper bag?  Do you have any tips for on-the-go diapering?  Leave a comment and share it with other readers!

Tuesday, January 18, 2011

Rumparooz earns another prestigious award!


national parenting center awardKanga Care, LLC, manufacturer of the revolutionary cloth diaper with inner gussets, is proud to announce its latest honor. The Rump•a•rooz® One Size Cloth Diaper was awarded the 2011 Seal of Approval from The National Parenting Center.

In order to earn The National Parenting Center's Seal of Approval, products are tested and judged by a panel of parents, children and educators over an 8-week period. Product testers then fill out detailed questionnaires focusing on level of sturdiness, desirability, interactive stimulation and other ingredients essential to a quality product. Test results are based on statistical averaging as well as comments received from the testers.

Reviewers rated the Rump•a•rooz® top of the line for ease of use, and also recognized the benefits and advantages such as reducing the amount of garbage to saving money. According to The National Parenting Center's online review of the Rump•a•rooz® One Size Cloth Diaper "parents figured that in under a month these diapers would pay for themselves."

"It is a true honor to be selected by The National Parenting Center for this award," says Kanga Care CEO Julie Ekstrom. "Knowing that this award is coming from real parents who tried the Rump•a•rooz® themselves and loved the product is why we do this everyday."

The Rump•a•rooz® One Size Cloth Diaper is the first and only cloth diaper on the market to contain inner gussets. This patent pending design was the innovative creation of Julie Ekstrom to stop her daughters cloth diapers from leaking. Loved by hundreds of thousands of parents around the world, the Rump•a•rooz® has grown to have the a remarkable reputation. The Rump•a•rooz® are one of the best quality and highest functioning cloth diapers on the market to date. The patent pending inner gusset - the cornerstone of the system - offers the diaper a double barrier protection against leaks and blow outs of any magnitude. A critical feature when picking a the best diaper for ones family.

The Rump•a•rooz® One Size Cloth Diaper is available in 12 colors, 8 prints and retails for $23.50. For a complete list of The National Parenting Center's Seal of Approval 2011 winners, visit their website http://www.tnpc.com.

Wouldn’t you love to try Rumparooz for yourself?  These amazing diapers are available at Doable Diapers, with free shipping over $25.00!

Monday, January 17, 2011

Babble.com

Have you heard of Babble.com?  I was unfamiliar with the website until recently.  It is a parenting website “for a new generation of parents.”  They have a week-by-week pregnancy guide, newborn care guide, and links for toddlers, moms, etc.  It seems like a well put-together site and easy to navigate. 

I was encouraged to discover that Babble.com has a diapering section that includes the cloth option.  Many main stream sites and organizations do not seem to recognize, mention, or promote the benefits to cloth diapering (though it is slowly beginning to change!).  While Babble.com also included the disposable option, I thought that they seemed objective in the information they presented.

And for the new parent, who may be overwhelmed with all of the “stuff”, information, and newness that comes along with a baby, there are helpful things like a checklist for the diaper bag or changing table/station.  Check it out – you may find something helpful!

These are the links that included cloth diapers…

And…Babble.com is doing a cloth diaper survey!  Click HERE to vote for your favorite cloth diaper!

Saturday, January 15, 2011

CJ’s BUTTer Winner

Sorry it took me so long to announce the winner – I haven’t been feeling so great.

The winner is comment #112:

Tara!
(taraz9@)

Please email iwon@doablediapers.com or respond to my email within 48 hours to claim your prize.

Thursday, January 13, 2011

Some Washing Tips from Doable Diapers


Preparing your diapers for use:

  1. Always pre-wash your diapers before using them on your baby!
  2. Hemp and organic/unbleached cotton products need to be washed several times before use to obtain maximum absorbency. There are natural oils on these products which need to be removed before they will be absorbent. We recommend washing them separately from your other diapers with warm or hot water until the items are completely prepped. You will have leaks if you do not do this preparation.

Notes on detergent:Classic Rock

  1. Use ¼ the amount of recommended detergent for a front loading machine.
  2. Use ½ the amount of recommended detergent for a top loading machine.
  3. Avoid detergents with additives: fabric softeners, whiteners, brighteners, fragrance, bleach, or free & clear formulas. These will cause a residue on your diapers and inserts which can lead to leaking and repelling.
  4. Detergents that are cloth diaper safe include Rockin’ Green (available at Doable Diapers), Country Save, Charlie’s Soap, and Tiny Bubbles to name a few. If you are using a cloth diaper detergent (such as Rockin’ Green), use the entire recommended amount in your wash cycle.
  5. NO FABRIC SOFTENER OR BLEACH!

A “normal” wash routine goes something like this:

  1. Cold pre-rinse or short wash to get all of the yuckies off. Set water level to highest possible to thoroughly rinse diapers. Detergent is optional in this cycle.
  2. Hot wash (heavy duty cycle) with detergent. Set water level appropriate to load size. Use a detergent recommended by the manufacturer.
  3. Warm or cold rinse. Running an additional rinse after the wash cycle is helpful!
  4. Line dry items containing PUL or TPU to prolong their life, or machine dry for 10-15 minutes and then remove. Line or machine dry inserts, prefolds, and other items.

Keep in mind that there are many variables in a wash cycle – everyone has a different machine, different water composition, and different detergent. This is a basic and simple wash routine.

Some tips to help your washing routine:

  • Do not soak your diapers on a regular basis. A dry pail is recommended. Remove solids before placing in pail.
  • Occasionally you may want to soak your diapers with Rockin’ Green to get everything completely out of your diapers/inserts and remove any build-up. Soaking is not recommended for PUL/TPU products.
  • Vinegar helps to naturally break down residues, and also softens the fabric. Add up to ¼ cup of vinegar to the rinse cycle. You can use the fabric softener dispenser on your machine.
  • Baking soda will help with odors. Use 1-2 tablespoons in the initial cold water rinse.
  • Funk Rock by Rockin’ Green is great for ammonia odors. You can add a tablespoon to each pre-rinse, or just do an occasional soak with 4 tablespoons.
  • You can occasionally bleach you microfiber inserts only to help remove build-up. Use 1-2 tablespoons. Never bleach PUL items.

What if my diapers are stinky or leaking?

You may have build-up or residue on your diapers. This can come from using the wrong detergent, hard water, or just over time. You likely need to strip your diapers. Don’t be afraid – it’s not very hard! There are several methods for stripping, and more details can be found on our blog or website.

Disclaimer: These are our recommendations based on personal experience. Always check the manufacturer guidelines for washing and care instructions for your cloth diapers. This information can be found under the FAQ section of our website . Doable Diapers is not responsible for damaged diapers or voided warranties that results from following these recommendations.

Wednesday, January 12, 2011

Diaper Rash Solutions

One of the benefits of using cloth diapers is that they help to prevent diaper rash.  With pocket diapers, fleece liners, and frequent changing you can keep your baby dry and rash free.

However, there are many other things that may cause a diaper rash.  Change in diet (when you baby is learning to eat solids, for example) and teething are two big offenders.  Recently Elaine has developed a bad rash every time she has cut a new tooth.

If you are familiar with cloth diapering, you probably know that fabric softeners and rash creams are a big no-no.  These products will coat the inside of your diapers and inserts, preventing them from absorbing wetness.  Instead they will repel, and you will have leaks.

So what can you do for a diaper rash if you use cloth diapers?  Here are a few things that we have tried.

:: California Baby calming diaper rash cream. 

The active ingredient is zinc oxide – the same ingredient that makes Desitin work.  I haven’t used a tube a Desitin since my brother needed it (and he is 21 now!).  The zinc oxide in California Baby is a smaller proportion than in Desitin.

Pros:  California Baby was effective for us in clearing up the rash. I just noticed that this is available at Target, so you could avoid a shipping charge. It has a lovely lavender fragrance.

Cons:  It seemed to sting Elaine and she complained a lot when it was applied.  It is rather pricey at over $12 a tube.

Notes:  California Baby has been reported to be cloth diaper safe, though I couldn’t find anywhere that the manufacturer advertised it as such. We did not have any build-up issues.  But since the active ingredient is the same as Desitin, it does make me wonder why one is okay and the other is not.  I don’t have an answer!

:: Northern Essence Diaper Rash Salve

This is an all natural formula composed of ingredients such as Healing Calendula Infused Oil, Therapeutic Meadowfoam oil, Natural Shea & Cocoa Butters, with a blend of beneficial  Essential Oils.  There is NO lanolin, petroleum or zinc.  It is cloth diaper safe, and will rinse clean.

Pros: Comes in a handy twist up tube so you just rub it on baby.  No messy hands!  Elaine did not mind when this was applied.  It was excellent at  protecting her skin.

Cons:  I couldn’t really get past the smell.  I notice that they now have some with lavender essential oil.  That would help a lot!  Also, it worked well for us to prevent rash and protect skin, but it was never successful and healing the rash.

:: Chubby Mamas Butt Balm

We carry this item at Doable Diapers.  I have not personally tested it…yet!  It is also made from all natural ingredients and was designed for use with cloth diapers.

Pros:  Comes in a handy push up tube for easy application.  All natural ingredients

Cons:  I don’t have personal experience, so I don’t know of any.

:: CJ’s BUTTer

I am hoping to add this to Doable Diapers very soon.  It is an all natural cream made from shea butter, olive oil, coconut oil, lanolin, beeswax, cocoa butter, and Vitamin E.  It is cloth diaper safe, and it has been rinsing clean for us.

Pros:  This is a great all-around product.  It works not only on diaper rash, but also eczema, dry skin, chapped skin, etc.  I am using it on patches of extremely dry, itchy skin and it is calming.  It comes in many delicious scents, and it is reasonable priced.  Since I began using CJ’s, Elaine has not had a rash so I can’t speak for it’s healing effectiveness. 

Cons: It’s a little greasy on application, but it does come in a push up tube for less messy hands.

:: Coconut Oil

I read about coconut oil online and I was so curious I just had to give it a try!  Coconut comes in  a solid form, but when you rub it, mix it, or heat it, it melts quickly into an oil.  There are many different uses for coconut oil.  A few cloth diapering moms rave about its effectiveness in healing diaper rash.

Pros:  A good price.  I paid $8.99 for a HUGE jar.  It has a great smell, and works well as a skin protectant.  It clears up the redness, but Elaine has not had a major rash since we started using this product.

Cons:  You have to purchase it at a health food store.  If you have one handy, this is not a problem!  It is messy to apply.  You have to work a chunk of solid in your palm until it is thin enough to apply, and then you have to wash your hands before affixing the diaper.

I’m sure that not every solution works for everyone, but maybe there is a new idea or product here that will work for you.  Do you already have a great solution for diaper rash?  Leave a comment and share your wisdom with others!

Monday, January 10, 2011

Cloth Diaper Love Photo Contest


I know you have all been the edge of your seat to find out about our exciting news!  I won’t keep you waiting any longer…

We are excited to announce a photo contest sponsored by Diary of a Devil Dog Wife and Doable Diapers!  Get your cameras ready for a fun photo contest and a fantastic prize! 

Photo Contest button

The theme is Cloth Diaper Love.  Your picture must have a cloth diaper in it!

How to enter:

Once all of the entries are received, we will open things up for voting. 

  • In order to vote, you must be a follower of Diary of a Devil Dog Wife and Doable Diapers via Google Friend Connect. 
  • Voting will be open for one week - February 6-13th. 
  • Announce your entry on your blog and send all of your friends over to vote! 
  • Each person may vote only once.
  • The five pictures with the most votes will be eligible for the grand prize…we will choose the winner from the top five!

IMG_2031The winner will be announced on Valentines Day, February 14th (in keeping with our theme, Cloth Diaper Love!).  One winner will take away a fantastic prize – a diaper bag made by Marah at Diary of a Devil Dog Wife (similar to the one pictured at right)  The bag will be stuffed with three diapers from Doable Diapers - one Rumparooz, one BumGenius, and one FuzziBunz diaper.

Get those cameras ready and start snapping pictures of your cute babies in their cute cloth diapers.  Get creative and show us your Cloth Diaper Love!

Friday, January 7, 2011

Obsession Confession: Marah from Diary of a Devil Dog Wife

 

IMG_1928 copyName?  Marah Mumma

Children (number, names, ages)?  Kolt, 1 year

Occupation: Stay at home mom. Full time student at Liberty University.

Where do you live?  We are stationed at Camp Lejeune, NC. We live in Maysville, NC. But I’m currently in PA living with my parents while my husband is deployed.

Is your hubby on board with using cloth diapers?  He was a little hesitant at first, but now he loves it. He even tells his buddies about how “cool” cloth diapering is!

When did you start cloth diapering?  I started when Kolt was about 4 months old.

What was your main reason for switching to cloth diapers?  Looking for ways to save money AND they are just so darn cute!

IMG_0628 copyTell the short story of how you started using cloth diapers.  I started doing A LOT of research and reading about cloth diapering. I purchased a trial, starter cloth diaper package with many different kinds of diapers. It was a great way to actually see all the different kinds of diapers and figure out which type would work best for our family.

What is your favorite brand and style of diapers?  For the most part, I’m a pocket diaper girl. My favorite probably changes every week. I absolutely love the Tots Bots Easy Fit diaper. But for nighttime fitted diapers and wool covers are my leak proof solution!

How many diapers are in your stash?  Probably close to 50. Uh. Can you say obsession!?!?

Share a blooper or “newbie” story from your cloth diapering experiences.  Yeah, I guess I did TOO much reading and research because I really don’t have one.

Do you have a tip to share with others?  Try lots of different brands and types of diapers. What works for one person may not work for you. You have to find what works best for you and your family.

Is there anything you wish you had known when you started using IMG_1443_edited-1 copycloth diapers?  I wish I had known more about wool!

What is the greatest issue or problem you’ve had with cloth diapers, and how did you resolve it?  Stinky diapers! I’m still working on getting this resolved.

Regarding cloth diapers, is there anything you would like to know?  What is the best way to strip cloth diapers?!?!

What are your other hobbies, interests, and obsessions?  I love spending time with wonderful husband and adorable son, so pretty much anything that involves them. But I also enjoy blogging, sewing, photography, reading and cooking.

What are your favorite blogs and websites?  Favorite photography blog - http://www.clickitupanotch.com/.  Favorite fellow military wife blog - http://www.goodnight-moon.org/.  Favorite craft blog - http://www.oneprettything.com/.

Tell us a little about your personality?  I wouldn’t be where I am or who I am today without my relationship with Christ. I don’t like conflict, yet I stand firm in what I believe. Worrying is my weakness. I genuinely care about other people. I would do anything for my husband and son.

IMG_0323 copyMarah blogs over at Diary of a Devil Dog Wife.  Stop by and tell her we sent you!  By the way, stay tuned for some exciting news next week!  Doable Diapers is teaming up with Diary of a Devil Dog Wife for a fantastic contest and prize package.  Details will come on Monday, but get your cameras ready!

Wednesday, January 5, 2011

CJ’s BUTTer Giveaway

pic25-300x225We are working on adding CJ’s BUTTer all natural products to our line-up.  To get you excited, here is your chance to win a 4 oz. tube of unscented CJ’s BUTTer!

This is a great product for diaper rash and rash prevention.  The all natural ingredients are safe for your baby’s most sensitive areas, and also clean rinsing and completely safe for use in cloth diapers!  Ingredients include shea butter, olive oil, coconut oil, lanolin, beeswax, cocoa butter, and vitamin E. 

The uses for this product are endless.  Check out a few of the top suggested uses…

eczema…rashes…dry/chapped skin…rug burns (sore ‘crawler’ knees)…mechanics’ hands and cuticles…hang nails…rub a small amount on your hands and use as a leave-in conditioner for your curls…and the list goes on!

CJ’s is available in a tube, a jar, or a convenient push-up stick. The stick is great for throwing into the diaper bag and to prevent messy hands during application! It comes in many flavors, as well as unscented.

I’ve been experimenting with several different diaper rash products as my little one always gets a rash when she’s teething.  I like that CJ’s has natural ingredients, but its also thick and easy to apply.  It is great to use as prevention for rash as a barrier between your baby’s skin and the wetness.

The Nitty Gritty Details:  Doable Diapers uses a Google form to collect entries into giveaways.  You can fill out the form all at once, or complete your entries a little at a time.  We will combine all entries under your email address.  The links you will need are below.  Giveaway will end on Thursday, 1/13/2011 at 11:59 pm EST.  Winner will be chosen using random.org and contacted by email, as well as posted on the blog.  Winner will have 48 hours to claim their prize, or a new winner will be chosen.

KONICA MINOLTA DIGITAL CAMERAHere’s how to win a 4oz. tube of CJ’s unscented BUTTer…

Mandatory Entry:

Tell me which version of CJ’s is your favorite, or which one you think you would like best – the tube, the jar, or the push-up stick.  This will help us determine what variety to carry at Doable Diapers!

Extra Entries:

  • Follow Doable Diapers Blog via Google Friend Connect
  • Follow Doable Diapers Blog via Networked Blogs
  • Follow Doable Diapers on Twitter
  • Like Doable Diapers on Facebook
  • Suggest Doable Diapers to your Facebook friends.  Write on our wall that you did so.
  • Post the Doable Diapers button on your blog.  Leave the URL so I can find it.
  • Visit CJ’s All Natural and tell me what scent would be your favorite.
  • Blog about this giveaway (3 extra entries).  Leave the URL of your blog post.
  • Make any purchase from Doable Diapers during the dates of this giveaway (5 extra entries).  Leave your order # and date.
  • Tweet about this giveaway.  Every unique tweet is an extra entry, no limits.  Your tweet must contain @DoableDiapers and a link to this giveaway.  To get credit for this extra entry, please copy and paste your tweet into a comment.  (Tweets will not be collected using the form.  The comments will be added to the form once the giveaway has ended).  Leave your email address so I can contact you.

Click Here to Enter the Giveaway

Newborn Diapers

Kim Rosas from Dirty Diaper Laundry did an excellent review of many newborn diapers.  She even included a chart comparing the fit, absorbency, and bang for the buck.  Watch her video review here, and then check out the chart below it.  This is a great resource if you will be cloth diapering a newborn!

I was excited when Kim announced that she would be reviewing newborn diapers, and now I can’t wait to get started purchasing diapers for my baby due in June (though I know I have plenty of time!).

rumparoozliljoeys_gumballI mainly used newborn prefolds and diaper covers when Elaine was born, but I didn’t begin using cloth until her cord fell off.  I am considering taking cloth with me to the hospital this time, so I am looking at other options.  I bought my first newborn diaper from a WAHM, and it is the tiniest, cutest, most adorable diaper!  It fits Elaine’s little baby doll which she got for Christmas!

I do plan to try the Lil Joey diapers.  Elaine was a smaller baby at birth, and very skinny.  If this baby follows in her steps, we will get a bit of use out of them.  I am hesitant to buy a lot of them simply because it is an AIO diaper and I don’t have a dryer.  I am nervous that they will take forever to line dry!

FB-perfectsize-crushedberries120I also want to use some XS FuzziBunz diapers.  FuzziBunz are my favorite diaper, with Rumparooz a close second.  I used the smalls with Elaine, but I know she would have worn the XS diapers for several months.  We’re going to give them a try with baby #2!

Did you cloth diaper your newborn?  What was your favorite diaper?  Would you invest in newborn diapers, or just go with prefolds until one size diapers fit better (usually starting around 8 pounds)?  Leave a comment and share your wisdom!

Tuesday, January 4, 2011

A Cloth Diaper Primer, part 3

This series is intended to simplify the vast amount of information available on cloth diapers.  Cloth diapering “newbies” may be overwhelmed at first, but cloth diapers really are easy!  Did you miss the other posts in this series?  Read part one here.  Read part two here.

Fabric Options

The options seem unlimited in this category of cloth diapering.  It may seem complicated and overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be!  I am by no means a textile expert, but I do know a little bit about cloth diapers!

FBMedLargeInserts3Pack-120Microfiber:  This seems to be the first choice in many diapers.  Microfiber is a synthetic blend.  It is highly absorbent, and it absorbs very quickly.  Many diapers, such as FuzziBunz, Rumparooz, and bumGenius come with a microfiber insert.  Microfiber is usually used as an insert, and does not come into direct contact with the baby’s skin.

Pros:  Very absorbent, and can also be very trim.  Dries quickly.

Cons:  Because of the “micro” part of the fiber, stink and residue can become easily trapped.  There is a process called stripping that removes this residue and build-up and returns to microfiber to its original condition.  I have found that HE washers and hard water are the primary culprits for causing microfiber to have buildup, but your laundry detergent can also cause problems.  (Don’t worry about it until it happens…I have only stripped my diapers once in over a year.  Read more about stripping here.)

ExamplesFuzzibunz, Rumparooz, and bumGenius! all come with microfiber inserts.

Cotton: We are all very familiar with cotton!  It is breathable, absorbent, and easy to care for.  The most widely used cotton diapers are pre-folds.  Cotton is a natural fiber.  Some WAHM diapers use recycled t-shirts as the soaker – these are cotton also.

Pros: Cotton is highly absorbent and easy to care for.

Cons: It is not stay-dry, so you may want to use a liner if you choose cotton diapers.  However, cotton is a natural fiber, so it is still soft on baby’s skin.

ExamplesPrefold diapers

Organic Cotton:  Some people prefer that only organic fibers lay against their baby’s skin.  Organic cotton has been grown without pesticides.  It is usually super soft and super absorbent.

Pros:  Organic fabric, natural fiber.  It is soft and absorbent.  Though it is not stay-dry, you don’t need a liner. 

Cons:  The organic products that I have used require a longer drying time.  To get an organic product you must pay a higher price.

ExamplesFlip organic inserts; bumGenius Elemental diapers.

Bamboo:  Bamboo is an excellent choice for cloth diapers, and “going green.”  It is a sustainable fiber source – bamboo grows quickly and requires little irrigation, making it easily renewable.  The fibers are made from the extracted pulp of the bamboo plant.  Bamboo is up to 60% more absorbent than cotton, and it is luxuriously soft.

doopsy-inserts-graphicThe Doopsy insert is a bamboo blend with a bamboo hemp booster.

Pros:  Softness, absorbency.  Bamboo is an excellent choice for heavy wetters or night time use.

Cons:  Usually bamboo is a fitted diaper or insert, so you will likely need a diaper cover or pocket diaper to stuff it in.  Bamboo can be a little more pricey

Example:  Doopsy diapers with SD insert.

Hemp:  Hemp fibers are strong and grow quickly. They are usually very coarse, but processing methods allow it to be softened into a wearable fabric. There are several characteristics of hemp – it is strong, durable, and absorbent.  Hemp requires no pesticides to farm and it doesn't deplete soil like cotton.  It also has natural anti-microbial properties, which may aid in deterring mold, bacteria, and fungus.

Pros: Hemp is very absorbent, just like bamboo.  Sometimes hemp is blended with organic cotton or bamboo for even more absorbency.  These blends are a little softer.

Cons:  Hemp is very rough, even when it is softened.  I don’t like to put hemp next to my baby’s skin, so I don’t like hemp prefolds.  However, a hemp insert or booster is an excellent choice!

ExamplesFuzziBunz Hemp Diaper; Rumparooz diapers can be upgraded to a hemp insert.

Polar Fleece, Micro-Fleece or Micro-Suede:  These fabrics are usually used as the lining in a pocket diaper.  They wick moisture. These fabrics are not only soft when placed next to the baby’s skin, but they move the moisture quickly into the soaker or insert beneath.  This keeps baby dry and happy.

Pros:  Baby stays dry and rash is kept at bay.  Soft against baby’s skin.  Micro-suede seems easier to spray poo off of rather than fleece.  Quick drying!

Cons:  Fleece may pill slightly but it doesn’t affect performance.

Wool: Wool diaper covers are a great option for several reasons.  Wool is soft, absorbent, and naturally anti-fungal.  It is also highly breathable.  If your baby is prone to diaper rash, or just has a bad rash, wool is a good option.  It allows the baby’s skin to breathe while still providing a waterproof outer layer.  Wool also absorbs any excess moisture from the diaper.  Wool covers may sometimes be referred to as shorties (they look like shorts) or longies (they look like pants).

Pros:  Wool doesn’t have to be washed as often because of its high absorbency.  It is soft and breathable.  It is a natural fiber.

Cons:  Wool does to be lanolized sometimes in order to help maintain waterproof properties.  This is an extra step.  It can be more expensive to purchase.

{Read Part 1}
{Read Part 2}

Monday, January 3, 2011

A Cloth Diaper Primer, part 2

This series is intended to simplify the vast amount of information available on cloth diapers.  Cloth diapering “newbies” may be overwhelmed at first, but cloth diapers really are easy!  Did you miss the other post in this series?  Click here to read part one.

Some More Terminology

Insert: This refers to the portion of a diaper that is stuffed inside the pocket.  It is the absorbent core of the diaper.

Doubler/Booster: This is a piece of absorbent material added (usually to the pocket) to give extra absorbency.  A cotton/gauze doubler, hemp doubler, or bamboo doubler are great options.  They give extra absorbency without extra bulk.  You could also choose to use two microfiber inserts, but this will likely be very bulker.  (Read more about fabrics tomorrow).

Liner: This is a thin piece of material placed between the baby and the diaper.  A stay-dry liner wicks moisture to keep the baby dry.  A flushable liner makes it easy to clean the poo off a diaper – just flush the liner and all of the solids on top of it.  You can also use a liner to protect your diaper in the case when your child needs a special diaper cream, etc. that may cause build-up.

SoakerSoaker could refer to two things.  First, it is another name for the insert or absorbent core of a diaper.  It could also refer to a wool diaper cover.  Wool is also highly absorbent, and when used as a diaper cover it soaks up any excess moisture.

PUL: this stands for poly-urethane laminate.  It is a fabric (often polyester) that is bonded with a laminate to make it waterproof.  Most pocket diaper or diaper covers have a PUL outer layer.

Diaper Cover:  This is a waterproof cover that is placed over a non-waterproof diaper (such as a fitted diaper, a prefold diaper, etc.).  A diaper cover may be sized or one size.  It can be made of wool, fleece, or PUL.

Prefold diaper trifolded in coverThis prefold is tri-folded and laid inside a diaper cover

Snappi Fastener: This is a t-shaped elastic strap with little “claws” on the ends.  It has replaced diaper pins.  It is easy to use and safe – no more poking yourself or your baby!  It holds a diaper securely closed underneath a cover.

mint green pink snappi  snappi feature

WAHM Diaper:  In the last post we discussed the major types of diapers.  I gave examples, from main-stream cloth diaper manufacturers.  I neglected to mention that there is a whole other world out there – the WAHM (work-at-home-mom) diapers.  These handmade items are as unique as each individual person.  In an effort to keep things simple, I wanted to highlight the big brands first.  I have not been brave enough to try WAHM diapers yet, but I may do so soon!  Find WAHM diapers on Etsy (as a starting place).

{Read Part 1}
{Read Part 3}

Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...