Do you think diaper changing is straightforward and simple? Not so fast for the cloth diapering mamas. While cloth diapers generally save us quite a bit of cash after that initial investment, it does require a bit of a process, and a good cloth diapering system, to make it less time-consuming. The good news? Once you have it down and the right tools on hand, it doesn’t have to be all that difficult. Here are my favorite cloth diapering systems (and tips) that make diaper changes (and cleaning) way more manageable.
The Best Cloth Diapering Systems
There’s no one-size-fits-all here. Like disposable diapers, mamas have preferences on what cloth diapering system works best for them and their babies. With that being said, here are some of the most common cloth diaper options available.
All-in-Ones
These are my favorites because they are exactly as they sound, all in one. They do not require additional folding and generally come with a waterproof lining, which is a total cloth diaper win in my book.
Prefolds
Prefolds are also great as they are a pretty durable option (a must for cloth diapers). They are divided into three sections with an absorbent middle layer. They are also versatile options because there are quite a few different absorbency options out there to choose from.
Fitted Cloth Diapers
Fitted cloth diapers have a fitted build around the leg area but do not have a waterproof lining like some other options. So you will likely want to get a waterproof cover to go over these. While fitted cloth diapers look the most like a typical disposable diaper, they are just one piece to the cloth diapering equation. They will require their second half to become a fully functioning absorbent diaper.
Flats
This one falls on the bottom of my list of cloth diaper systems because they require a bit more work than some of the other picks on this list. However, the best part about flats is that you can completely customize them to your baby’s size. This can be a huge plus during those months of rapid growth!
Cloth Diapering System Hacks That Make Cleanup Much Easier
Okay, so you’ve done some shopping and decided which cloth diaper system will work best for your baby and lifestyle. What now? Here are some additional tips to make cloth diapering just a tad easier and less time consuming
Tip #1: Invest in a Diaper Sprayer
Are you wondering how you’ll get those poopy diapers cleaned when cloth diapering? Enter diaper sprayers. You can install one into your toilet and use it to spray a dirty diaper right away. It can reduce stains and dirty diaper smells in your house until diaper laundry day (game changer!).
Tip #2: Give Liners a Try
You can also try disposable liners inside the cloth diaper if you are okay with using something disposable. While not as eco-friendly, disposable liners can make things easy during travel or on an outing when you don’t have your diaper sprayer with you!
Tip #3: Get a Diaper Pail
Even though you aren’t using disposable diapers, you can still use a diaper pail to keep dirty cloth diapers in until laundry day. You can even purchase reusable liners that you can toss into the wash with the diapers to make things even more environmentally friendly!
Tip #4: Wash as Often as You Can
Even with the pre-spraying, you’ll want to wash your diapers as often as possible (some moms even do it daily). Start by prewashing in cold water, then wash on a regular setting using warm water and a gentle, hypoallergenic detergent. Toss into the dryer once clean, and you have yourself clean diapers ready to use again!
Tip #5: Keep Enough on Hand
One thing to know about cloth diapering is that there is an initial investment. But think about how much money you will save long term! There won’t be any diaper runs for months on end until you need to replace the cloth diapers you have on hand. Ideally, you would stock up on about 20 before your baby’s due date or when transitioning to a cloth diapering system, so you always have enough on hand.
Simplify How You Cloth Diaper
Cloth diapering is often viewed as inconvenient and time-consuming. But, with the right cloth diapering system, handy hacks, and the right diaper stash on hand, it can save you quite a bit of money and be a super environmentally-friendly way to handle all of your little one’s diapering needs!
