|
Which System Should I Use?
If you are just starting out with cloth diapering, it is recommended that you try out the different systems first before going all out and investing in one system. Just like with disposable diapers, where no one brand suits every baby, you need to find the system/brand that suits you and your baby the best. This can be just one system, or a combination of different systems. For instance, you may want to use a trim diaper during daytime, but need a thicker diaper for night time. Or you may prefer to use prefolds and covers at home, but want the convenience of an AIO when going out. Also, some babies may be allergic to synthetic materials like suedecloth and microfleece, while others may be allergic to wool. Therefore, it is important to find the right diaper that works for your baby. The beauty of cloth diapering is, if one thing does not work for you, you have a plethora of other options to explore.
For this reason, we have put together a Sampler Package for you to try out the different diapering systems. When you discover which one works for your baby, then you can order more. For infants, we have also put together a Newborn Starter Package to help new parents get started.
Generally, your priorities also play a role in deciding which system to choose.
- Economy – if you want the most economical option, then prefolds and covers are the best choice for you.
- Convenience – if you want the easiest and most convenient method, then AIOs and pocket diapers are the best systems for you.
- All-natural – if you want an all-natural diapering system, then cotton, bamboo, or hemp prefolds and fitted diapers, along with wool covers, are the best choice for you.
- Trimness – if you prefer trim-fitting diapers that fit well under jeans, then prefolds or fitteds and covers may be the best option for you.
- Fit – if you prefer the diapers to have a more precise fit, then sized diapers would be a better choice than one-sized diapers.
How Many Will I Need?
The number of diapers you will need depends on how often you plan to wash them, how often you need to change, and whether you use cloth part-time or full-time.
Newborns need to be changed more often than older babies. On average, newborns need to be changed 10 to 12 times a day, while older babies need around 5 to 6 changes a day.
If you plan to do laundry every day, here is our minimum recommended number of diapers for each system (most people use a combination of systems) for cloth diapering full-time. You may wish to start with the minimum, and then add to your stash as needed. If you plan to do laundry every few days, you will need more. If you plan to use cloth only part-time, you can get by with less.
Newborns : 24 diapers (prefolds or fitteds) + 6 covers
OR
24 AIOs or pocket diapers with inserts
Older babies: 18 diapers (prefolds or fitteds) + 4 covers
OR
12 AIOs or pocket diapers with inserts
Here is what we would suggest for a combination of systems, enough to diaper a child from birth to potty-training. Again, this is the bare minimum, with daily washing.
24 infant prefolds (great for use as doublers when the baby is older)
2 newborn fitted diapers or mini one-size pocket diapers (for use during night time or when going out)
8 infant and newborn covers (4 each)
12 one-size pocket diapers with inserts
2 stay-dry fleece liners for use with fitted diapers (optional)
Do keep in mind that these are just general guidelines, and that every baby is different, with differing needs. Trying out the different systems and different brands, along with building your cloth diapering stash, actually makes cloth diapering fun!
Back
|
