What do I need to get started?

Before making your purchase consider the age of your baby and the estimated amount of diaper changes they require.  Generally newborn and younger babies (infants) require up to 10-12 diaper changes a day, whereas toddlers significantly less (6 -8 changes).

• 24- 30 all-in-ones (AIO’s), one size or fitted diapers if you want to reduce laundry to every 3 days.
• Remember you must have enough diapers to last your baby during laundering and drying time.  This time may take longer if you chose to dry your diapers in the sun to eliminate those pesky stains.
• If you decide to use prefold diapers, we recommend you purchase at least 24.
• With prefolds and contour diapers  you will require diaper covers (6- 8).
• Also you may choose to fasten the prefolds with diaper pins or snappy fasteners (4 or so).
• If using pocket diapers you will need  about 24 and also more than 30 inserts (to use as “extra” to stuff in the diaper at nighttime for extra absorbency).  Some diaper manufacturers like Bumgenius add inserts to their diaper thereby lowering your cost.  However others prefer more natural insert fibers such as hemp or bamboo.
• Here are some of the above mentioned products:

                

         

Some diapers are now available as "one-size" diapers that can fit babies from approximately 8-35 lbs. If you choose these types of diapers, the total number of cloth diapers you purchase will be less.  You will not require to buy new fitted cloth diapers as the baby grows, hence saving you money. 

Remember however that "one-size" diapers don’t always fit well for newborns and can tend to be bulky in the front.   Many parents opt to purchase a few newborn fitted diapers for that first stage of life.  Such cloth diapers are often also made of very soft and natural materials, gentle enough for even the most sensitive of the baby’s skin.

One size diapers are also laundered much more often during the child's 3 years of diaper use, than the fitted size diapers, as they are constantly being used.  One size diapers then accumulate more wear and tear and may need replacing, or may not last any future children. 

Don’t be shy.   Contact us if you have any  questions about what products should suit your needs and the needs of your child best.   We are avid supporters of cloth diapering.  We understand that it is a delicate balance between the health and benefit of our children/environment, and time and convenience of the product being used. We wish to find the best fit you require to feel successful in your choice of cloth diapering.