Soft cloth bum wraps don't deserve a BUM RAP!
Jul 09 '00
Whenever I tell someone I use cloth diapers, they roll their eyes or ask why in the world I'd want to. Others say if I weren’t a stay-at-home mom I wouldn’t have time to use them. Many ask me when Ill go back to disposables. Without having seen the types of diapers available today, they swear that cloth diapering is a cumbersome, unsanitary chore. Their preconceived notions are a far cry from my newest WAHM (work-at-home-mom) homemade fitted diaper and my cutest pinless diaper cover. The reaction is often the same, they immediately comment that if they knew that there were cloth diapers like this, they would have at least tried them.
The common excuses for not using cloth diapers quite often just don’t hold water, much like parenting advice from my childless friends. Until you try various cloth diapers or at least do a bit of research, it is ridiculous to vigorously dissuade others from using them. Nearly everyone who has poo-pooed (yes, I know...) the idea of cloth has changed their tune when they see the nice fitted diapers and pinless covers I often use. It seems as though people just don’t know how easy and pleasant most cloth diapers are.
The internet is an excellent starting point for learning about and purchasing cloth diapers. The selection at most stores no doubt is the reason so many people shudder at the thought of using them. Some of the most popular types of diapers include:
Fitted- These are shaped very much like a disposable diaper but fasten with snaps, velcro or sometimes even pins. They are made of flannel, terry, birdseye or other materials and many are unbelievably soft. Some type of cover is necessary usually with a fitted diaper.
AIO-AIO diapers, or all-in-ones are fitted diapers with an attached waterproof outer or cover. These are the easiest and often a good choice for outings, sitters, daycare or even Daddy. These diapers are initially most expensive, however they are as simple as a disposable and more economical in the long run.
Contour-Hourglass shaped diapers are simple to use and less expensive than fitted and AIO diapers. These usually can be laid right in a diaper wrap with no need for pins.
Prefolds-One of the least expensive yet very effective diapers are prefolds. A DSQ (diaper service quality) prefold is very absorbent and can be used a number of ways. You can pin the diaper, use other types of fasteners or simply fold the diaper and place it in a wrap. They also can be folded and placed inside a fitted or AIO for extra overnight protection.
Covers-There are a number of covers available as well ranging from velcro closing wraps to pull on pants. Wool and fleece are popular and breathable materials though many covers are polyester or nylon.
Washing diapers is not nearly as difficult as some seem to think. There is no need for rinsing or toilet dunking, no strange chemicals. While I often hear people insist you must bleach diapers, chlorine bleach is not necessary or even recommended. Any free and clear detergent is fine, I prefer a biodegradable powder and enzyme stain remover when necessary. Bi-O-Kleen and Bac-Out work quite nicely as does Dr. Bronners Castile Soap with perhaps a vinegar rinse. Washing diapers really is no hassle, an extra two or three loads per week.
Another common misconception about cloth is that they cause more rashes. Many find quite the opposite to be the case, a chemical free cotton diaper is much easier on the bum than the acrylic acid polymer salts which turn to that cold gel in most disposables. In addition, there are stay-dry diaper liners that effectively wick moisture away from the baby. Some argue that the disposables are more absorbent, but isn’t it healthier to change a baby frequently anyway? Leaving a baby in a disposable because the chemical superabsorbent granules can take it is not wise. The gel often leaks and is not proven safe.
It seems that those who shun the idea of soft cotton diapers are often those who simply assume different is bad. Perhaps they think diapers are still the flat gauze kind that fasten with pins or perhaps they just join others in their views. I do know that nearly every mother who tried cloth after using disposables preferred the newer cotton diapers to the plastic and paper kind they had been using. Many moms start to enjoy the diapering years because of the soft, adorable cloth diapers the cover their babies bottoms with.
Would you prefer the paper gown or a cotton one at the doctor? Do you enjoy wearing disposable briefs or cotton underwear? Would you prefer soft, dry fleece or cold clammy jello against your buns? What about your baby?
Cloth diapers have come a long, long way. Don't knock 'em 'til you try 'em!
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