Advice for diapering business

[sajohnson]

So I am considering starting a diapering business that would sell diapers as well as offer a cleaning service (drop off diapers and pick them up, so sort of a "full service" type deal). I figure I wash enough diapers anyway whats the harm in helping others out to and making a little cash at the same time... But I was wondering if any of yall have done this (or if you are just business savy and have some thoughts) and what is advice/pitfalls I should know about before hand? 

I am located in the US and would only do it locally (in my town) I wouldn't be making the diapers but buying them wholesale from a company I know of...not sure what other information I should give but anyways, thanks for the advice in advance!

[MommyLibrarian]

Most diaper services only offer prefold diapers and require the users to purchase/launder their own covers.  You may need to check with your local health department about the guidelines for commercial laundering.  Your home water heater may not get hot enough to sanitize the diapers.  Also, using your average home washer for such an enterprise would void the warranty as they are not meant to hold up to that kind of "abuse".  I"m not saying it is impossible to start such a business but there is quite a bit that goes into it.  Do some research online of other diaper laundry services.  Most are only local as well.  Also, don't forget about state/local/federal regulations for home/small businesses.  Setting up properly in the first place will save you headaches later on down the road.

[twinpossible]

Agree with above, it may be a bit of a headache to get it all going. It may require inspections, industrial equipment, etc. However, if you could do a "green" cleaning service and maybe offer specialties like sun drying and spot treatment you could really be on to something! I launder everything myself because the services in our area only do prefolds, use bleach and are super expensive. You could fill a niche need :)

[jmarroq]

I would look at how other businesses do it. I think they usually have delivery/pick-up.

I also thought about selling cloth diapers. At the time I looked into it, the big companies would not sell to "home" businesses...only brick and mortar or on-line. Some weren't taking new vender applications either because they claimed to be too busy...not able to keep up with demand. 

I hope you find success! I got discouraged and gave up, but that's not unusual for me. I obsess over a business idea and spend lots of time researching and then lose interest when I realize how much money/work it involves! Very ADD. I am now obsessing over a new idea that I have had on and off over the years!