Thinking of making the change to cloth? Here are a few great products guaranteed to make the switch a success.
Cloth Diapers
Obviously you’re going to need to start with cloth diapers. There are a world of options out there which makes choosing the right diaper very difficult. My recommendation is always to seek out the advice of others who have been there and done that. I also recommend trying a few different options before investing in a full system.
One of my favorite brands is SoftBums. They have the most unique One Size diaper I’ve ever used. Their SlideSize system allows you to customize your diaper to fit any size baby from 6 to 35 lbs. This unique sizing system is hidden inside the diaper allowing for a trimmer, more comfortable fit. They fit beautifully on both my 2 year old and my 2 month old. Not a lot of diapers can do that and do it so well. They also hold up wonderfully to repeated washings. SoftBums offers several different Pods or inserts which are snapped into the diaper and then removed when wet or soiled so that the diaper can be used up to 3 times before washing. They also come in lots of fun colors and several cute prints (one of my favorite bonuses of cloth diapering).
Hybrid Diapers
In addition to buying regular cloth diapers, I always recommend that the newbie invest in a few nice Hybrid diapers. Hybrid diapers are diapers that can be used with either a cloth insert or a disposable insert. Hybrids are perfect for vacations, day care, or to use as your on the go diaper.
GroVia is one of the most popular Hybrid diapers on the market, and rightly so, their diapers are amazing! Their Gro-To-Go Kit is the perfect starter set. It includes three shells in your choice of colors or patterns, 50 BioSoakers (disposable inserts), and 3 packets of Tiny Bubbles (cloth diapering detergent). I also love that they give you the option of choosing either a velcro or snap closure. I recently tried GroVia’s BioSoakers for the first time and they are so convenient and easy to use that I’ve found myself using them at home from time to time as well.
Diaper Storage
In between washes you’ll need a place to store all those wet diapers. There are several options out there. You can go with a good old fashion diaper pail or if you’re looking for something a little different then try a Wet Bag.
Planet Wise is known for their well-made wet bags that come in loads of fun prints and patterns. There are several benefits to using a wet bag. Wet bags are easy to store, simply hang from your bathroom door. They wash easily along with your diapers and are great for keeping the stinky smells in. Planet Wise Wet Bags are made in the USA and feature their unique hidden, waterproof seams. They come in three sizes, but I prefer the Large for at home diaper storage. If you prefer the more traditional diaper pail then be sure to check out Planet Wise’s Diaper Pail Liner. A great way to keep your diaper pail clean without scrubbing.
Detergent
When I first began cloth diapering I tossed my diapers in the machine with my same old detergent. After a couple of months the diapers smelled gross, even when they were clean and leaked! All detergents are not created equal and a little special consideration should be taken when washing your diapers and inserts.
I love the subtle humor and great scents of Rockin’ Green Detergent. This funky detergent is great for taking the funk out of stinky diapers and is also great for preventing it. It comes in several delicious scents all inspired by popular bands—so fun! Their newest scent Earth, Wind, and Orchids smells so wonderful that you’ll almost forget you're tossing it into the wash with a load of stinky diapers.
Diaper Liners
If you’re already a mommy then you are fully aware of the extreme yuckiness of new-born baby poop. A great way to save yourself a little clean up is by using diaper liners.
The Mioliners by Bambino Mio are great. Simply place the one-way liners on top of your little one's diaper insert. They allow moisture to pass through, but prevent it from seeping back onto baby’s skin. They are also great for stinky diapers. Simply remove the liner and flush. They’re a great way to make cloth diapering even easier.
